Welcome to our
Members Area 2023
Training with MVS Medway and Gravesend or Gillingham Marina
Confirmed via team Whats App meassages
OPENING HOURS
WEDESDAYS 19:00 - 19:30 Inductions
Training
WEDNESDAY 19:30 to 21:00
Events and Training
SATURDAY 11:00 - 17:00 TBC
SUNDAY 12:30 - 16:30 TBC
ADDRESS
Gravesend & Medway MVS C/O head of Unit Alan Metcalfe
GRAVESEND SAILING CLUB
Gordon Promenade East, Gravesend, DA12 2RN
For general enquiries contact john.griffithsmvs.com
Tel: 07588313534
we are based @
Gravesend Sailing Club, Gordon Promenade East, Gravesend, Kent, DA12 2RN
If you are using sat-nav DO NOT use the post code.
If you are coming from Gravesend town centre, follow the one way system until you reach the clock tower. Turn left and at the next traffic lights bear left following directions to the 'canal basin'. Follow the road round and turn left immediately before the large block of flats. Then follow the road round to the right by Gordon Promenade. The sailing club is the white building on the left at the end of the road.
There is parking in the public car park along the promenade.
Gravesend station is about half a mile away in the town centre. (Trains to London and Medway Towns).There are several bus routes on the main road (A226 Milton Road).
Congratulation David
Former RNR able seaman joined the Medway and Gravesend MVS in February 2023 to get back to what he enjoys, time on the water and meeting like-minded people, David is part of units Safeguarding team. and Has already completed his Defta 1 course water awareness, He Trained for many years as part of team afloat with RNR, ready for removing mines around the UK coast's, H&S, Fire fighting afloat, these were just small part of his many duty's.
We congratulate him on his achievements with us and encourage all our members to keep their training up to date.
.
We congratulate you on your RYA PB2 certification and encourage all our members to keep their training up to date.
Congratulation Diane Morton
PB2 Training well under way with Unit members training and induction on McGarrity and Valkyrie to be done
Members
MVS Shape Up Ashore and at Sea, June 24th & 25th 2023
Members of Medway & Gravesend Support Gravesend Rowing Club and Regatta
RYA PB2
Training continues with induction to our Ribs, Training on Wednesday evening Time and tide permitting till 21.30
Keep an eye on What's App
RYA Sort wave Radio Course Open
Members are welcome to joint the new MVS marine short ware radio courses, leading to RYA certification
Power point presentation available on M&G Unit Drive
MVS Medway &
Gravesend
has a PFSO
All UK ports must have a certified PFSO. The PFSO is required to:
-
implement security measures stated in the International Ship and Port Facility Code (ISPS Code)
-
train other staff in general security awareness and to aid this we have produced various security materials which are available on request
Although a single PFSO is allowed to be responsible for multiple facilities each facility must have a PFSO.
PFSO certification can only be awarded by our approved training providers.
You can contact us if:
-
have questions about the status of a company providing training
-
wish to become an accredited training provider
Contact:
-
020 7944 5541
By post:
Maritime Training Manager
Department for Transport
Great Minster House
33 Horseferry Road
London SW1P 4DR
We are delighted to say Our Health & safety /Training Officer / John Griffiths, has completed PFSO certificated course.
John, Joined the MVS back in September 2021, and has taken on challenged to lead in field of Safety Security and Unit Training
John is a security training manager at the large Port Facility here in Kent.
born on Isles of Wight and years of experience sailing /motor boat small boat experience, and having his own boat .
"Wonderful group of people to train with, Wavetrain LTD thank you.
The couse is a comprehensive knowledge to enable us to take on the duties and responsibilities as defined in the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.
Practical case studies are used to illustrate possible measures to comply with maritime security requirements.
The course meets the requirements of the ISPS Code and the requirements specified in the IMO Model course 3.21 (2015 ed.) for Port Facility Security Officers.
The course focuses on:
-
Understanding the ISPS Code
-
Assessment of security risks, threats, and vulnerability
-
Developing, maintaining, and supervising the implementation of a Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP)
-
Conducting periodic inspections of the port for which the participant is designated to act as the Port Facility Security Officer to ensure appropriate security measures are implemented and maintained
-
Ensuring that security equipment and systems, if any, are properly operated, tested, and calibrated
-
Encouraging security awareness and vigilance
-
Identifying weapons and improvised explosive devices
-
Security training, drills and exercises
-
All leading to good conversations around training and learning"
Annie Engine Service Done
Thank you Depurty Head Of Unit Jason
Tempest Engine Service Done
Again Jason does his best to keep our fleet serviced
About Us
THIS IS A GREAT PLACE FOR YOUR TAGLINE.
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DEFRA 1
Unit Training April 2023
Unit training continue last week with a team of able volunteers practicing there skills on water awareness. unit H&S Officer and Unit instructor, John Griffiths was please to see so many turn up for practical secession, homing in these life safety skill is a vary important part of what we need to do on and off the water.
Annie Tuber Repair and Service Mantainance
Thank you Depurty Head Of Unit Jason
Water and Flood Awareness is a course designed to provide individuals who may as part of their role, work near to the water with sufficient knowledge to be aware of the hazards created by this environment and develop an understanding of various water rescue techniques. This course complies with DEFRA module 1 content requirements and is also recognised by the Environment Agency.
This training is designed to make people aware of the hazards associated with water and carry out basic land-based rescue techniques. The dangers of working near water are explained and basic safety measures are introduced to the student.
The session includes awareness of water-related hazards, water hydrology, scene organisation, principles of water safety, varying rescue options including low to high-risk options, and introduction to basic water safety PPE.
The training is split into separate units which cover the essential knowledge and understanding plus the practical application of items of equipment that may or may not be available to the students. The practical units are delivered as dry land sessions.
Scope of the Course
This course is mainly classroom based with practical elements being conducted outside, however, these practical elements can be covered as a classroom session if necessary.
Consequently, Watersafe UK can easily travel to your place of work saving you valuable work time and expense.
The course is not designed to train individuals as dedicated water rescuers but to make them aware of the hazards associated with water environments and the range of control measures that can be introduced to reduce the risk.
Course content includes an introduction to some low-risk rescue options that may be attempted by individuals trained to this awareness level and an explanation of higher-risk options available to individuals trained to a higher level.
Aim
To develop individuals to Water and Flood Awareness level 1 in water safety.
After successful completion of the course, candidates will be able to:
-
Identify and apply suitable dynamic risk assessment.
-
Detail a range of hazards associated with working near water.
-
Detail suitable control measures.
-
Select the suitable water safety PPE.
-
Describe and understand various rescue options.
-
Demonstrate the effective use of rescue throw lines.
Engine maintenance and flush
MVS Gravesend &Medway Unit
AGM for Gravesend &Medway Unit of the MVS 2023 UP-DATED results in!
Please find attached the agenda for our AGM, which will be held on Thursday 11th May 2023 at Gravesend Sailing Club. Please arrive from 7 pm for a 7.30 pm start.
If you unable to attend please could you let me know at least 24hrs before the AGM.
Please can all members consider whether they would like to stand for election of any unit posts which will be re-elected at this AGM.
Elections will be held for the following posts:
HOU Alan Metcalf
Treasurer Jason Sibley
Unit Secretary Lucy Hornby
Unit Fundraising Officer Morgan King
Unit Training Office John Griffiths
Unit Boat Manager Patriot Ribs Gravesend Graham Clark, Patriot John Griffiths
Unit Health and Safety Officer John Griffiths
Welfare and Safeguarding officers David Davison and Rosmay Dimond
I
Kind regards
Lucy Hornby
Unit Secretary
May 2023
Picture right Tempest under the control of Skipper Jason
ESAN and Power Boat 2 Underway check out Whats app messages for Booking training
January 3rd 2023 x22 Members of the MVS Gravesend & Medway and Units across our area, took part in the first "Teams" training in DEFRA 1 Water safety course, the second practical lesson will be in April 2023,
Thank you to our instructors RVO, James Deller and John Griffiths.
Name, Title
Unit Training advisor, (Captain), Chris Rodgers, step to face to face training at Gravesend Sailing Club, the topic for the section was Chart work for RYA essentials seamanship navigation course,
Mew member Morgan King found the course lesson very interesting, "when you think we all use our phones for navigation, to get to grips with Chart Work is proving to be a possible lifesaver is the power and networks fail.
"I can't wait to get the practice on the water".
Seamanship and Navigation continues March 2023
HOU Alan, Morgan,Depurty HOU Jason and Training advisor, Captain Chris Rodgers
From our Head of Unit Alan Metcalf.
Medway and Gravesend, Maritime Volunteer Service,
We are wishing you a very happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year!
We are proud of our Training, and our team of volunteers has a very strong commitment to achieving. These four students, Rosemary Dymond, Jacqueline Littlewood, Lucy Hornby, and Irene Lucero, have passed the RYA Essentials Seamanship and Navigation course and are a great asset to our unit objectives in our community.
Their achievements this year, have been achieved by giving their time to training and working in our community,
The Unit instructors have been involving them in completing the New MVS Training Pathway, Induction and Foundation Units now also completed, The Emergency First Aid Certification, full Health, and Safety induction, and an understanding of Risk Assessments, this team also attended Unit Safeguarding Training and now form a very important part of our unit management & operations working within all areas.
Well done! from Unit Training Officer Steven Bates, and congratulations from Unit Health & Safety Officer John, you all have worked so hard and now you reaped the reward and recognition for your effort.
So, what's next? well the 2023 Training schedule will open soon and the RYA FM Radio course and Powerboat 2 will be the next challenge, and we will keep you posted on the team’s progress on our website www.medwaygravsendmvs.com
We received and warm welcome from Erith Rotary Club on 1st November 2022
HoU Alan & John gave and presentation to interested members of the club, On the history of Maritime Volunteer Service
and what we do.
Erith: Club details | My Rotary
for more information http://www.erithrotary.org
Rotary International is a humanitarian service organization that brings together business and professional leaders in order to provide community service, promote integrity, and advance goodwill, peace, and understanding in the world. It is a non-political and non-religious organization. Membership is by invitation and based on various social factors. There are over 46,000 member clubs worldwide, with a membership of 1.4 million individuals, known as Rotarians.
Thank you from Les,
"Thank you for very interesting evening and telling us about the history and what you do.
Chairman,
"I had a brief look at your website.
Our strap lines are about the community's we work for and in. It's great to see the work you do and your plans for maritime training within the community's we live in".
"Supporting YOUR Community with OUR People"
Buffet Night Out
Members and friends of our unit relaxing on social evening 09/10/2022 GREAT PLACE FOR meal and chat.
Our member took advantage of a Sunday evening meet up with extent food from around the world at Spoons Chatham
Medway & Gravesend MVS Unit September 2022
We are so delighted, to meet The Rt Hon. the Lord West of Spithead GCB DSC and to be part of the Maritime Volunteer Service reception team for the Parliamentary Reception
Training
DEFRA 1 See John 2023 program underway!
ESAN
Essential Seamanship & Navigation This course will runn through 2023
SIB
PB1 Power Boating for beginners Start 2023
PB2
Power boat Training a
This course Starts 9th Jan 2023
Gravesend & Medway Unit
Supporting Training
Tuesday 16th August 2022
PB2 Introductions to
Tempest & Annie
For our Newest Members
Training with Deputy Head of
Unit Jay and PB2
Instructor Graham
Trailer Service
We never forget about
what we have on water
should be in good
working order.
So what
we transport, our Ribs
on the road will also be in good working order too.
What you carry on or in your trailer is between you, and your goals, and they are cost to your bank account, but how that boat is carried is relevant to every other person on the road.
When a trailer is not properly maintained, it presents a danger to all drivers on the road and you!
That’s why it is critical to stick to a regular trailer service schedule, just like you do with your boats. Although a trailer lacks a complicated engine/s or sails that requires constant monitoring, it still demands work from its owner and user.
A trailer should be looked over every time it is used, and there are several pieces and parts that need attention on a frequent or semi-frequent basis.
The easiest way to keep all of your service and inspection demands in order is with a checklist, so make one and use it and set high standards
Trailer Maintenance You Should Need to Know
Use these tips to keep your trailer in good condition and towing down the road with ease.
Coupling
Typical Average Service Frequency: Inspect every trip (look and see)
Make sure the towing hitch itself is in good, clean condition and has no up-and-down or left-to-right slack in it. Make sure the catch lock stays in place when in use and that it stays locked with pins. Don’t forget to attach the chains to the secondary braking system if it becomes unhitched.
Tires
Typical Average Service Frequency: Air before every trip, replace when the tread is worn, or sidewalls are cracked.
Check the air pressure in your tires before every trip and fill when necessary. While you’re at this level, run a gloved hand over the tires to check for damage, punctures, or items stuck in the tire. If you use the trailer frequently, use a tread gauge to check the tread, as well. If your trips are more spread out and you put fewer miles on your trailer, you can inspect the tread less often. Make sure the air valve is in good condition and dust cap in place, as well.
Rotate Tires: Rotate your tires each time you pull it out of storage for the new season.
Wheels
Typical Average Service Frequency: When damaged
During your tire inspections, you should also check out the condition of the wheel. Look for rust spots, damage, or general wear that could be detrimental to the wheel’s purpose.
Wheel Bearings
Typical Average Service Frequency: Once a year
This might vary depending on how frequently you use your trailer but suggests repacking the wheel bearings and checking their condition at least once a year.
Brakes
Typical Average Service Frequency: Inspect every trip, service once a year
Whether they are hydraulic or electric, the brakes need to be inspected regularly and serviced at least once or twice a year, depending on the trailer usage rate. Check for corrosion, wear, stuck parts, and overall functionality. Additionally, make sure the brake fluids are always up to the correct level and replace it at least once or twice a year.
Surge Brake Actuator and Solenoid
Typical Average Service Frequency: Inspect every trip, service once or twice a year. The surge brake actuator and solenoid are crucial to the safety of your trip. Inspect both every single time before you set out onto the road, and make sure any grease fittings are properly greased.
Suspension
Typical Average Service Frequency: Inspect every trip
A large majority of trailers will use a leaf spring suspension, though some might have torsion axle setups or even axle less suspensions. No matter the type, they are all subjected to everything underneath the trailer, including salt, road grime, dirt, gravel, and tar. Inspect the metal, rubber, bolts, and everything else to look for rust, degradation, or any other damage.
A good tip! It’s not exactly “service,” but if you’re taking your trailer camping or using it to launch a boat in water, it’s a good idea to spray the trailer down after each use and before putting it away. This will help remove salt and dirt that could damage trailer parts.
Lights
Typical Average Service Frequency: In pairs, when they die
Trailer lights require just as much attention, if not more, than the mechanical parts of a trailer. Always check your lights before every trip, and when one in fault, replace it and always carry spares.
Metal/Wood Condition
Typical Average Service Frequency: Never, if properly cared for
Part of your visual inspection will include looking over the metal or wood that makes up the walls of your trailer if it has them. Look for deteriorating materials, soft spots, rust, or other wear and tear that could degrade the functionality of the trailer, if you have rollers check them too, it will save on damage to you boat.
Breakaway System
Typical Average Service Frequency: Every trip
If you have A Breakaway system, it designed to stop your trailer in the event that it “breaks away” from the towing vehicle. It typically does this by using a small battery, electric brakes, and a circuit with a switch. When a key is removed from that switch, it closes the circuit that connects the battery to the electric brakes and activates the trailer’s brakes.
-
Switch and Key: Make sure the switch activates and the key stays in place
-
Wiring: Check for disconnections or frayed wiring
-
Battery: Check the charge level
-
Clasp: Check the condition of the clasp and make sure it’s functional
Trailer Spare Tire
Typical Average Service Frequency: Inspect after periods of time without using a trailer
Spare tires are already sad because they're spares, don’t completely neglect them. Show them the love they need by checking the air pressure and making sure nothing is dry rotting.
Safety Chains
Typical Average Service Frequency: When broken
Always inspect the integrity of your safety chains or cable before every trip. Look for rust, cracks, warping, and or bent metal that could cause problems.
FAQs About Trailer Maintenance
Q: How often should a trailer be inspected?
A: As a general rule, it’s a good idea to inspect a trailer each day that you are using it. Not everything needs to be serviced, but quick inspections don't take much time and could help prevent any issues while driving or while sistting on a drive or storage area.
Q: How often should trailer wheel bearings be replaced?
A: If you frequently use your trailer, it’s a good idea to repack the bearings once a year.
Q: How often should you grease trailer wheel bearings?
A: This depends on how often you drive the trailer, but a good general rule is once a year, or about every 10,000-12,000 miles.
Q: Can you over-grease a trailer wheel bearing?
A: It’s doubtful you will over-grease your bearings to the point that it creates problems. However, the main downside of over-greasing would be that it might come out and get grease all over your wheels, brakes, and trailer.
Q: What kind of grease do you use for trailer wheel bearings?
A: You can find products that are literally labelled wheel-bearing grease for various specific purposes and types of trailers.
Q: How often should I grease my trailer axles?
A: Inspect your axles to make sure they are properly greased before every trip.
There are dozens of different types of trailers, but most of them are used to haul something. Below, a presenter goes over the checks and balances of inspecting a horse carrier.
Gravesend & Medway Unit
Supporting Gravesend Regatta
Sunday 14 July 2022
Annie and Storm our Ribs on the
water as Safety boats escorting
duties for Gravesend sailing and rowing club respectfully
With our Valkyrie our (SIB) on
land side showing our restored
trot boat, 2.5 ph. Seagull engine
Our Unit is doing all it can with
supporting these event and our
charity collections and
information point.
on the esplanade.
Members working with and
supporting our local commuitity projects on land and at sea.
Unit News
about our an
updates to our
website
and its
management
going forward !
John Paul Griffiths
Web Developer
Head of Unit and Management team from Medway and Gravesend Unit continue to develop this website for more information please contact www.john.griffithsmvs.com
Lucy Hornby
Web Developer Support
New updates to our web site and we welcome New Web Support Developer Lucy
We welcome a new member to
our Unit, so a good way to learn
about the MVS and talk out being
afloat is on
"A PB Power Boat Experience"
On the Thames in Annie.
As welcome on board to
Lucy
MVS Open day 11th June 2022
Wonderful afternoon out on the River Thames supporting
Gravesend Unit. Thank you
Lord Waverley
for coming down to meet our volunteers & hear about the good work that they are doing for the community. #volunteering. Mayor Mr Peter Scollard
MVS Medway & Gravesend
Open Day
11th June
About Us and Our Open Day 11th June 2022
Open Day opened By Lord Waverly
RYA PB2
Well Done to Gary on Passing your RYA PB2
29th May 2022
RYA PB2
Well Done to John on Passing your RYA PB2
29th May 2022
So what's the different' s between a Sib or Rib
Inflatable Boats vs. RIBs: Is your RIB different from an inflatable boat?
John Griffiths Unit Health & Safety Officer.
Purchasing a boat can be a big decision. When I was deciding to purchase a boat, we I worry about transport to and from the water, the mooring fees, the time loacation etc..., the upfront cost and maintenance engines and list grows.
My Delmer, was an question to solve, there is a solution to all of these problems and at the time I need for an inflatable boats.
Inflatable boats aren’t just affordable – they’re also safe, stable, and easy to maintain? It’s no wonder that they’re becoming increasingly popular but can be very dangerous to the untrained person and you need to more research on the pro's and con's for your own needs.
Even when I made a decision buy an inflatable boat, one question remained will I get a traditional inflatable (SIB) boat or a rigid inflatable boat (RIB)?
So I consulted Members of our unit and then turned to Steve on his page, Inflatable Boats vs. RIBs: Is your RIB different from an inflatable boat? - Anchor Travel and the credit goes to him on this.
he answered my question in one hit as we say.
"Both options have advantages and disadvantages, and it can be difficult to determine which is the correct choice for you.
However, you no longer have to worry about this – we have compiled a comprehensive comparison of each boat so that you have all the information required to weigh your options and make a decision.
From purpose to materials and affordability, we address it all in the guide below – check it out to learn all about inflatable boats vs. RIBs.
Table of Contents [hide]
Inflatable Boats vs. RIBs
While both types of boats are inflatable boats, fully inflatable boats are known as Soft Inflatable Boats (SIBs) whereas RIBs are Rigid Inflatable Boats.
Sometimes, people refer to all inflatable boats as RIBs. However, the two kinds of boats have some stark differences, which can be either advantages or disadvantages depending on your unique requirements.
Soft Inflatable Boats (SIBs)
Soft Inflatable Boats (SIBs) are fully inflatable boats without hard hulls. Therefore, they can be fully deflated and stored.
Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs)
Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIBs), on the other hand, boast solid hulls and can’t be folded up.
While this is the basic difference between the two, there are many other factors to take into consideration – read on for a thorough comparison of SIBs and RIBs.
SIBs vs. RIBs: A Comparison
While both options are inflatable boats, they differ in many ways – read on to see exactly how different factors affect the comfort, performance, and structure of these inflatable boats.
Hull
SIBs have soft, lightweight hulls which make them not only easy to transport, but also excellent for shallow-water fishing.
However, this also makes them more susceptible to flipping in the water when going fast. Additionally, SIBs sit lower in the water, making the ride much wetter.
RIBs have heavier hulls but have the advantage of more stability in rough conditions. They’re also able to handle higher speeds without flipping in the water.
Structure
Because SIBs aren’t made with any rigid materials, they don’t have a lot of structure to them. Therefore, they’re very compact and able to be folded.
RIBs, on the other hand, not only have a solid hull, but also have rigid flooring. This makes them much sturdier and able to withstand rough currents.
Convenience and Ease of Use
If convenience is your main priority, then SIBs are the way to go. Because they’re so lightweight, they’re portable and can be easily stored by folding them up.
RIBs, on the other hand, are much heavier. Not only are they harder to launch, bring ashore, and stow, but they also require transportation in order to be moved.
In addition to needing a trailer or truck for transportation, you will also require storage space.
Related Posts:
Comfort
Because RIBs have solid floors, they’re much sturdier and more comfortable than their SIB counterparts. Additional seating and storage can also be installed for added comfort.
They’re also more comfortable on the water because they can go fast while maintaining their stability.
SIBs aren’t as comfortable since they limit both, speed and weight. The air floors aren’t as stable and sitting on them can get uncomfortable after long periods of time.
Durability
SIBs are often thought of as weaker than RIBs because of their susceptibility to punctures and leaks. However, RIBs are also susceptible to damage.
Despite their wood, fiberglass, or steel hulls, RIBs can also get scratched or dented. In fact, they can even experience blistering and spider cracks, leading to water getting through.
Therefore, both types of boats are susceptible to damage. The damage to SIBs can often be fixed easily – check out our article on inflatable boat sealant to learn more about this!
Materials
The three main materials used in the construction of SIBs are Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polyurethane (PU), and Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene (CSM). The latter was previously known as Hypalon but was discontinued in June 2009.
RIBs also use PVC, PU, and CSM in the construction of the inflatable tubes. However, the hulls are made from materials like glass reinforced plastic (GRP), aluminium, and carbon fibre.
Affordability
SIBs are much more affordable than RIBs. RIBs offer convenience, storage, and seating, all of which comes at a price.
If you’re willing to pay this higher price, an RIB is an excellent investment. However, if you’re on a budget, we would recommend an SIB since they’re so cost-effective.
Compatibility with Trolling Motors
While both SIBs and RIBs can be equipped with trolling motors, trolling motors are generally more compatible with RIBs.
A major part of this is because SIBs can only hold a limited amount of weight whereas RIBs are able to carry substantial amounts of weight.
While it can be done, it can be a difficult task since different factors have to be taken into account, including weight, support, availability of mounting plates, etc.
Fishing Purposes
Practically speaking, both types of inflatable boats can be used for fishing. However, because of their many differences, they are suitable for different types of fishing.
For example, an SIB would not be the boat of choice when fishing on a windy day – the boat can move from side to side, even if anchored. Comfort can also be an issue, especially when fishing for long periods of time.
However, because of how easily they can be beached, SIBs are excellent choices for shore fishing. RIBS, on the other hand, are not suitable for beaching.
If you’re planning to fish in choppy waters, RIBs are the way to go. When it comes to rough weather conditions or deep-sea fishing, RIBs are your best friend.
Therefore, both options have their advantages and disadvantages – the right choice depends on every angler’s individual needs and requirements.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has been useful in illustrating the differences between traditional inflatable boats and RIBs and is helpful when you make your choice. Let us know how your experience with inflatable boats has been and which boat you prefer in the comments below!
I created this site to help people – to help you – with your boat problems. Instead of helping one person at a time, I want this website to be the “one-stop-shop” for everyone’s boating concerns. I want people to head straight to Anchor.travel whenever they have a problem. Read more.
Congratulations
Chris
Well done to you, Chris all that hard work paid off!
Boatmasters Licence Requirements
The requirements for the issue of Boatmaster’s licences (BML) in the UK is governed by the Merchant Shipping (Boatmasters’ Qualifications, Crew and Hours of Work) Regulations 2015. In support of these Regulations, Merchant Shipping Notice MSN 1853 provides in depth explanations of the processes involved when applying for a BML.
Boatmaster licences comprise two different categories; Generic (national licence) and Specific (restricted licence).These are further broken down into two separate tiers and levels:
-
Generic Tier 1 Level 2 – for operating a vessel anywhere on the UK’s inland waterways, categories A-D and limited coastal areas, except where local knowledge requirements apply
-
There are numerous eligibility requirements to be satisfied to qualify for a BML, these are:
-
Applicants must be aged over 18 years old
-
Completed the required Qualifying Service Time, as evidenced in a Work Record Book
-
-
Be examined to exhibit competency in underpinning knowledge
-
Provide certificates of successful completion of ancillary safety training in Personal Survival, Fire Safety and First Aid
-
To be examined on local knowledge where the applicant will be working on waters where its features and characteristics can present a hazard to safe navigation
-
Be in possession of a valid medical certificate either an ML5 or ENG1 whichever is appropriate in the circumstances
-
Undertake a practical boat handling test
Chris
"The culmination of 3+ years of re-learning: my Boatmaster license, enabling me to operate commercially as a Captain of passenger vessels carrying up to 250 passengers (and workboats) on our country’s inland waterways Very happy"
Sam has passed his RYA approved First Aid course, Sam PDP continue to grow off the Back of Sea Survival Course
Congratulations
Sam
RYA FAW
These groups may choose to take the RYA First Aid Course or use alternative first aid qualifications, providing the course meets the minimum requirements given below.
Minimum requirements
Course duration: 1 day with at least 6 hours instructional time.
Course outcomes:
-
Understand the role of a first aider in regard to:
The importance of preventing cross infection
The need for recording and/or reporting incidents and accident
Assessing a scenario and circumstances to ensure they act safely, promptly and effectively in an emergency -
Can perform CPR to current protocols, and understand the differential for drowning.
-
Understand the importance of the recovery position and the need to modify it for small spaces.
-
Can administer first aid to those who are unconscious
-
Can identify types of external bleeding and control bleeding
-
Can use appropriate dressings, bandages and other first aid equipment available, including improvised dressings and bandages.
-
Understand the term shock, recognise and treat it
-
Can recognise and understands the treatment for hypothermia following immersion and/or exposure.
-
Recognise the signs of a reduced level of response, with particular reference to serious head injuries.
-
Can administer suitable first aid for:
breathing difficulties
choking
chest pain
seasickness
diabetic emergency
anaphylaxis
hyperthermia
fractures
seizures
burns, including scalds, chemical and electrical
minor injuries including small cuts, grazes, bruises and small splinters -
Can choose suitable first aid equipment
First aid certificates should be refreshed or renewed every three years
New SIB in our Area
We have now the use of Sib for training and Support, our Engineers and Tec team are working on continued development of this Sib Project.
Mr Peter Hammond retired Master Craftsman working on Plans for our Sib
Seagull Engine
The Old engine in need of TLC
The Strip Down
Hard work and problems to resolve, cooling side of engine we have problem Houston !
The History of British Seagull Outboards Credit to
Just how many British Seagull outboard engines are in sheds, garages and outhouses?
The original design was one of many initiated by the original manufacturers, John Marston Ltd and the Sunbeam Motor Company, the makers of the famous Sunbeam motorcycles. We do, however, understand that the design was developed as a marine engine rather than an adapted industrial engine. This is probably one of the major reasons for their endurance and success.
By 1931 the first Seagulls, sold as the Marston Seagull, were in full production, these were much the same in design as the more modern engines and incorporated innovative ideas such as reverse gears and water-cooled exhausts. The engines were available in both short and long shaft and the models ranged from the Standard and the High Power through to the Super High Power. This engine was a twin cylinder 10hp version capable of powering boats up to 30 feet (9.1m).
The two men credited with the continued development of the Seagull engine are John Way-Hope, who had worked for Evinrude, and Bill Pinniger, a design engineer. They met while working in the marine division of the Sunbeam Motor Company. After acquiring the manufacturing rights and patents for the Marston Seagull engines they set up the Bristol Motor Company in Bristol and financed the purchase of those patents with dealings in light aircraft and expensive sports cars. By 1938 they had consolidated the design of the engine and had moved into new premises on the Quay at Poole, Dorset. To celebrate this milestone the name Marston Seagull was changed to British Seagull and the engine was proclaimed as 'The Best Outboard Motor in the World' - later changed to 'The Best Outboard Motor for the World'.
At this time they cut the range to one engine, reverse gears were dispensed with as Way-Hope considered them as 'a rather sissy refinement, rendered superfluous by efficient boat handling'. However, their patented 'Positive and Self-Adjusting Free-Engine Clutch' was considered by them to be so near perfection that no serious alteration to the 1938 design was contemplated until the mid-1960s. Way-Hope and Pinniger's concept was to use the best materials possible for the punishing marine environment.
We believe the Admiralty's request for a 'rough and ready' version of the '102' for use on light assault craft help to establish the company. The engine needed little alteration; the Navy required an engine that would run non-stop for 24 hours. This wartime success developed the next batch of engines, the 40 Minus in 1949, the 40 Plus in 1952 and the Century and Century Plus by 1955/56. As each engine was designed a number of prototypes were produced, some over many years, fishermen and company members tested all these in 'real life' situations. This together with their 'concept of power output' meant that this established Seagull's worldwide reputation as a no-nonsense design suitable for extremes of climate from the Antarctic to tropical heat and also able to sustain considerable user abuse and total immersion.
By the mid 1950s British Seagull had moved to new premises at Fleets Bridge, Poole where they reached their all-time peak during the 1960s. At this time everything except the gears and the carburettors were made on site.
In 1982 British Seagull moved again to premises at Newtown Business Park, Poole and launched the large 7.5hp Model 170. This engine featured an engine cover and was the forerunner of the QB Series. The QB Series was introduced at the 1987 London Boat Show with the 6hp Kingfisher; soon followed by the 5hp Osprey and the 4hp Curlew. This design represented the very latest in two-stroke technology in conjunction with Queens University, Belfast who are regarded as one of the world's leaders in innovative engine research.
In 1996 the production of the British Seagull outboard engines ceased but the Spare Parts supply continued in its renowned friendly and highly personal way. In 1999, Chillington Marine Ltd, the owners at that time of British Seagull decided to pull out of the marine leisure market handing over responsibility for the British Seagull name to Sheridan Marine on the River Thames in Oxfordshire. We have continued the manufacture and supply, where possible, of original spare parts re-introducing some discontinued items in the last few years.
We take the continuity of the British Seagull name seriously and intend to fly the flag proudly well into this Millennium.
Members Night out at all you can eat!
Spoons Chatham 15th May 2022
Medway & Gravesend MVS Welcomes Our Members
The New MVS Pathway to Training and Personal Development 2023
Medway & Gravesend MVS Say Congratulations to Sam & Shane
On the Completion and Certification RYA MCA Small Craft Basic Sea Survival Course
Annie Spring Clean
Members of the unit help with spring clean of our Rib and PB2 training craft.
April 2022
Annie Looking Good
A volunteer for the day get a treat for his hard work cleaning
Thank you!
Medway & Gravesend MVS Say Congratulations to Stephen On the Completion and Certification RYA MCA Small Craft Basic Sea Survival Course
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Medway & Gravesend MVS Say Congratulations to John & Gary On the Completion and Certification RYA Essential Seamanship & Navigation Course
Medway & Gravesend MVS Say Congratulations to Gary On the Completion and Certification RYA Power Boat 2 Course
October 2020
The MVS Say Congratulations on this Commendable Service Award
to
Jacqueline Littlewood
April 2014
The MVS Say Congratulations to Rosemary and Jackeline Emergency First Aid Level 2 Course completed
February 2022