"Boats, Banter and B1s: Forklift Training at the Boatyard"

A look at how AA Coombes brought hands-on FLT training to their Bembridge base.

TL;DR 5 key points:

• AA Coombes in Bembridge completed “In House” B1 Experienced forklift training on-site.
• The B1 category covers counterbalance forklift trucks up to 5 tonnes – ideal for boatyard tasks.
• Using their own forklift and familiar setting gave them maximum value for their training spend.
• The course focused on refining existing skills, boosting safety, and meeting workplace demands.
• Delivered by Wight Training Services – expert, accredited training right across the Isle of Wight.

Update: This June forklift training session was the first of two visits we made to AA Coombes in 2025. A few months later, in September, we were back again – this time with Ethan completing his B1 forklift course and the lads getting hands-on with slinger/signaller crane training. 👉 You can read about that follow-up session here.

On the Tools: B1 Forklift Training at AA Coombes

There’s something quite satisfying about training in the real-world environment where your skills will be used every day. That’s exactly what Bill, the owner, and Hadleigh of AA Coombes opted for when they took on an “In House” B1 Experienced forklift truck qualification right in their Bembridge boatyard.

With a long heritage in yacht building and marine engineering dating back to 1951, AA Coombes knows a thing or two about craftsmanship, precision and getting the most from every working day. That’s why on-site forklift training made perfect sense – using their own equipment in familiar surroundings, saving time and costs while still meeting high safety standards.

What is a B1 Forklift Qualification?

The B1 category covers counterbalance forklift trucks up to 5 tonnes, the most common type used across yards, warehouses and industrial settings. Whether it’s lifting parts, moving pallets or managing boatyard logistics, a B1 cert ensures operators are confident, compliant and competent – exactly what’s needed in a fast-paced marine environment.

Wight Training Services' Tim Benton says: As this was an “Experienced Operator” course, the focus was on polishing technique, tightening up safety awareness and making sure best practices are always followed. With over fifteen years of industry training experience, I made sure Bill and Hadleigh got practical, down-to-earth instruction tailored to their actual work environment.

And I’ve got to say – the results spoke for themselves. Smooth lifts, steady hands and no drama, just how we like it.

For more info on how you can get your team certified without leaving site, get in touch. Whether it’s forklift training, plant machinery or workplace safety, I’ll bring the course to you!