Ski Boat Driver 1
The Ski Boat Driver 1 (SBD 1) is the UK’s leading qualification for recreational ski boat drivers.
Recognised as the benchmark standard across inland waterski clubs, it is designed for anyone looking to drive a boat independently for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and other towed disciplines.
The SBD 1 hosts both theory & practical assessment to ensure you are confident and safe on the water. The SBD 1 is for inland waters only you will not be covered to drive on coastal waters with this licence.
The course typically includes:
Tutored theory session (1-2hours)
Theory assessment:
- A short multiple question assessment on the course content
Practical assessment:
- 30-min familiarisation session
- 15-minute slow manoeuvring skills test
- 15-minute waterski/wakeboard driving assessment
Cost SBD 1 test is £150
Ski Boat Driver 2
The Ski Boat Driver (SBD 2) is considered the benchmark standard for coastal boat driving across the UK. It is also a key step for anyone looking to progress into coaching.It provides formal proof of your ability to safely and confidently operate a ski boat at sea.
One of the major benefits of achieving SBD 2 is eligibility to obtain an International Certificate of Competence (ICC); a widely recognised qualification for driving boats across European coastal and inland waters.
The course includes:
Theory Course (Approx. 4 hours):
- Covering key coastal driving topics, including:
- Boat hulls, engines, and propellers
- Buoyancy aids and lifejackets
- Collision regulations at sea
- Channel markings and navigation
- Nautical charts and tides
- Launch and recovery procedures
- Driving techniques, including towing skiers and wakeboarders
Theory Assessment:
- A 30-minute multiple-choice exam based on course content
Practical Assessment:
- 30-minute familiarisation session
- 15-minute slow manoeuvring skills test
- 15-minute waterski/wakeboard driving assessment
To take part in the SBD 2 course, you must:
- Be a current British Water Ski & Wakeboard member
- Be aged 16 or over
- Have some supervised experience driving a ski boat (or be willing to take lessons)
Cost SBD 2 test is £250
Additional costs may include:
BWSW Membership
SBD 2 Registration Fee: £40
ICC: £60 (valid for 5 years)
Combined SBD 2 & ICC application: £70
