Home of Leeds water taxis launches boat training courses for aspiring skippers

People can learn to navigate Leeds’ waterways and work towards becoming a community boat skipper through a new training programme at Leeds Dock.

Department, the membership-led workplace which runs the city’s water taxis, has launched three courses covering everything from basic boat handling to a recognised qualification for skippers.

The venue has become an accredited training centre with the National Community Boats Association (NCBA), offering training for people looking to get involved in life on the water.

Leeds Dock was once a busy hub for barges carrying coal and other goods into the city.

Department, which took over the site's water taxi service earlier this year, said the new courses would build on its role in the local community.

Peter Forest, a trainer and water taxi skipper, said: “Learning to handle a boat gives you a new way to experience the waterways - but it also comes with responsibility.

“Our training gives people time on the water to learn new skills and understand how to keep themselves and others safe.

“Some people will simply want to try out boating, while others may be looking to become part of a community boat crew or work towards a skipper qualification.

“Having all three courses at Department at Leeds Dock means we can help people find the right starting point.”

The half-day Introduction to Boat Handling course is aimed at beginners and offers practical experience of manoeuvring and controlling a boat at Leeds Dock.

A two-day Community Crew Course covers passenger safety, boat operations and the responsibilities of working as part of a community boat crew.

The two-day CCBM Helmsman Course is designed for those looking to develop their skills further.

Participants can work towards a recognised qualification to skipper community boats carrying up to 12 passengers on non-tidal inland waterways.

Alex Webb, head of culture and events at Department, said: “Department’s role at Leeds Dock extends into the community around our workspace, including the water taxi service.

“Becoming an accredited training centre builds on that by giving people a way to learn skills that are part of the Dock’s everyday life.

“We want our programme to reflect the city we’re in, and here, the waterfront is central to that. Bringing people together to learn about boating gives us another way to contribute to Leeds life.”