Phoenix skippers take on full responsibility for the boat and crew; sometimes with crew members they have only just met. It is the policy of Phoenix that all skippers must be RYA qualified and, in addition, must satisfy the Phoenix Sailing Committee that they are competent and safe by taking part in an Assessment weekend.
The Club has a Skipper Officer, who is responsible for ensuring that skippers have the correct qualifications and that the Skippers manual is kept up-to-date. The Club maintain full documentation on board the yachts, including safety briefing, start-up and close-down checklists to help Skippers operate the yachts in the safest manner.
Members who are interested in skippering the yachts are strongly encouraged to develop their skills within the club.

Skippers are required to participate in the Subscription Discount Scheme by taking out a Debenture with the Club.

There are three levels of Club Skipper: