Practical inland brokers course launches in the UK
British Marine and the Association of Brokers and Yacht Agents (ABYA) have announced the launch of the Practical Inland Brokers Course (PIBC), a new two-day training programme designed for both aspiring and established inland boat brokers.
The industry-led initiative combines expert tuition, practical learning, and professional networking to support the development of professionals operating in the evolving inland marine market.
Scheduled for 20–21 October 2026 at Yarnfield Park, Staffordshire, the inaugural course has been developed in partnership with leading industry professionals. The curriculum is structured to provide delegates with a comprehensive understanding of every stage of the inland boat brokerage process, from the initial customer enquiry through to the successful completion of a sale.
Karen Wilson, CEO of ABYA, says: “As the inland boating market continues to evolve and regulatory requirements become increasingly complex, brokers are expected to provide expert guidance across legal, technical and commercial matters while delivering an outstanding customer experience. The Practical Inland Brokers Course has been created to help meet this growing demand by providing practical, real-world learning that can be applied immediately within the workplace.”
Over the two-day programme, delegates will explore a wide range of topics including contracts, Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, VAT considerations, Boat Safety Scheme requirements, Recreational Craft Regulations (RCR/RCD), marine law, conflict resolution and the role of the marine surveyor.
The programme has been designed around real brokerage scenarios, enabling attendees to gain valuable insight into the everyday challenges and opportunities faced by inland boat brokers.
Those involved in the programme include Karen Wilson, CEO of ABYA and the Yacht Brokers, Designers & Surveyors Association (YBDSA); Emma Green, managing director of ABNB Boat Brokerage; Manj Mahey, head of training at British Marine; alongside an experienced team of industry experts including Ed Tuite, head of technical at British Marine; Justin Green, owner of J G Marine Services, Guy Girling, boat sales executive with Tingdene and Andrew Hyland, director of Waterlodge UK. Each presenter and industry expert offers delegates practical knowledge and first-hand experience.
A dedicated ‘Ask a Broker’ session will give attendees the opportunity to put their questions directly to experienced professionals, covering everything from complex negotiations and unusual sales scenarios to career development and emerging market trends. The course also includes a networking dinner and social evening, allowing delegates to build valuable connections with fellow brokers and marine professionals from across the inland waterways sector.
Manj Mahey, head of training at British Marine, comments:
“Buying or selling a boat is one of the most significant purchases many people will make, so having knowledgeable, professional brokers is essential to delivering a positive customer experience.
“The Practical Inland Brokers Course has been designed to give delegates the confidence to navigate every stage of the brokerage process while developing a deeper understanding of the legal, technical and commercial considerations involved. By bringing together leading experts from across the industry, we’re providing a unique opportunity to learn from those with decades of practical experience while building valuable professional connections.”
According to the organisers, the Practical Inland Brokers Course has been developed for anyone looking to build or enhance a career in inland boat brokerage.
Whether starting out in the profession, developing existing brokerage knowledge, supporting the growth of a sales team or investing in the professional development of employees, the course is designed to offer a foundation for building confidence, strengthening expertise and raising professional standards. It is equally valuable for marine professionals who work alongside brokers and want to broaden their understanding of the brokerage process and the wider inland boating industry.
Course fees are £645 for British Marine and ABYA members and £900 for non-members.
Places are limited and early booking is recommended. For further information and to reserve a place, visit the British Marine course page.
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