can you do yachtmaster theory online

Free Navathome Diesel Engine course with RYA Day Skipper and Coastal Yachtmaster theory online courses!

• Where Do I Start ?
• RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship
• RYA Day Skipper
• RYA Coastal Yachtmaster
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean
• Fastrack To RYA Coastal Yachtmaster
• RYA CEVNI Test
• Navathome Basic Training
• Navathome Diesel Engine Course
• Navathome ICC Theory Course
• Upgrade From Navathome ICC to RYA Day Skipper
• Book A Course
• Vouchers & Gifts
• Extend Your Course
• Ways To Pay
• Other Payments

Welcome to Navathome

Join The Leading RYA Online Training School With More Than 20,000 Students

Get Instant Access To All Of Our Courses

FIND OUT MORE

Navathome Basic Theory Course

Learn The Basics In Boating and Navigating

RYA Day Skipper theory

Start Your RYA Journey and Learn How To Navigate With Confidence Includes a free diesel engine course

RYA Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster

Enhance Your Knowledge of Navigation & Passage Planning Includes a free diesel engine course

Try our free Navathome App available from your app store

Try the 'Navathome' app free from your app store. We have courses for all experience levels, from beginners looking for an introduction to navigation, to experienced sailors and professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills.

CHOOSE YOUR COURSE

All courses are completed online, study at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.

Day Skipper

• Includes a free diesel engine course
• No Previous Experience Necessary
• Learn Basic Navigation & Seamanship

Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster

• Knowledge To Day Skipper Theory Level Required
• Enhance Your Knowledge of Navigation & Passage Planning

Yachtmaster Ocean

• Knowledge to Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory Level Required
• The Ultimate In Navigation

Fastrack to RYA Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster

• Formal Theory Qualifications Necessary
• Complete Day Skipper Revision and Coastal Yachtmaster Theory in one course

MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS ...

Years experience

TrustPilot reviews

Hours studied online

WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING ...

With over 2,500 5 Star Reviews on TrustPilot, it was hard to narrow it down.

customer Carolyn

Great Course

Day skipper theory course was very good - well explained and clear. There was help on hand when needed but working it out for yourself was great instruction in itself! I would certainly do another course with Navathome and would recommend it to others.

Comprehensive course with helpful feedback

I recently took the Coastal/Yachtmaster theory course with Navathome, and happily I passed. There is a great deal of information to cover, and trying to fit this round a day job meant I needed an extension to the time to go through the course, but they kindly granted me this, and provided helpful and constructive feedback at every point. The exam itself probably needs several days, especially if you are as slow at plotting fixes as I am. Think of a number and double it is useful in terms of time needed. The final paper is really an all-day job, so make sure to allow yourself a clear block of time when you can drop everything else and give it your undivided attention. Overall, this has been a thoroughly enjoyable learning experience, and I now feel far more confident that I have decent knowledge to back up the practicalities of sailing.

Navathome Day Skipper Theory

Just completed and passed the RYA Day Skipper Theory course with Navathome. It was a really great experience and I was pleased to discover that I am still capable of learning lots of new things. The content is excellent at delivered at your own pace so you can go back over things that you don't understand as many times as you want.

Tom, Cardiff

Well laid out lessons/resources

Well laid out lessons/resources. Excellent practice questions covering all scenarios. Instant feedback. Very helpful and patient instructors!!! Thank you All at Navathome

The day skipper theory course from…

The day skipper theory course from Navathome is really good. It is well laid out and easy to follow. It is simple to see your progress. The website works very well, I didn’t have any issues with it. I didn’t need to ask many questions, as the online course is so well structured, but when I did they were answered quickly and clearly.

Graham Foster

Comprehensive and high quality on line learning

A very comprehensive course giving time to complete all the exercises at your own pace, build confidence and commit everything to long term memory. I found this far better than creaming everything in over several weekends but be warned this is not the easy option. Fortunately great instructors available when required and instant feedback aids learning. Highly recommended.

Great course

Great course, super concise and well structured. I was able to sail through my practical assessment without any issues. (Dayskipper and Diesel Engine)

One of the best online courses ever!

One of the best online courses I’ve done, in any field. A great combination of text, diagrams, videos/animations, use of practical and physical components (charts, books, almanacs), quizzes, tests and full-on assessments. And there is always help from real people, who care about getting you where you want to be.

Very nice and helpful instructors

well structured course, with explanations for everyone. the instructors who are there for the student, helping him whenever he needs it.

Steve SP REPAIRS

Great Day skipper theory course fit in with my spare time.

Working so many hours I was able to fit the course in around my spare time.. the lessons were great and explained well with videos and graphics. The language was straightforward and although required some good concentration at times it was made even easier with how quick the reply to email questions would be.. I mean, literally a few minutes! This is a real professional set up with a real family/ kind feeling and atmosphere. Obviously you never meet the teachers apart from email but you can get a good sense that NavAtHome.com want you to pass vs just doing their jobs.. thank you NavAtHome.com, Jackie, Salomon and others that came back to my questions over the last months, look forward to doing the coastal course next year!

A very enjoyable course to do

The course was very easy to navigate and friendly to do. There are a few typos, but nothing to make anything ambiguous. I restarted the course this year after having to suspend doing it when I started caring for my mother a few years ago. The staff couldn't have been more helpful. I certainly will do another course in the future if I think it necessary for my level of sailing.

WHY NAVATHOME ?

Full support to pass, multi device support, highest rated school, free navathome app.

EXPERT RYA INSTRUCTORS

Fully animated lessons, group discounts, exceeds expectations, 6 months to complete with lifetime access to revision material.

Get 6 months initial access to complete the course, which may be extended, if required. After completing the course, you will receive lifetime access to our Revision Material to ensure you maintain the skills and knowledge you have learnt with us.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Our goal is to assist you by addressing common questions and providing valuable information about our courses and services. If you’re unable to find the specific answer you’re seeking, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated team. We are always ready to provide further assistance and support.

NEED TO CONTACT US?

• "Fantastic Course to do. It gave me excellent knowledge of navigation using charts and all the inputs that go into ensuring safe passage on the sea. It was delivered the content in a clear and practical way and was of great asssistance all the way." settings Mark Wharton settings ENROL FOR THIS COURSE
• settings "I've found the training with Above & Beyond Boating really helpful, you can never be too prepared when you head out to sea and their training has helped every step of the way." settings Richard Harris settings ENROL FOR THIS COURSE
• settings "Fabulous! Neil is a great teacher; he made the course enjoyable and the whole learning process was very well supported. Neil also provided support in preparing to go cruising for the first time - very practical and reliable in advice and support. Highly recommend!" settings Jennie Fogarty settings ENROL FOR THIS COURSE
• settings "As a sailor who's cracked the podium at World Champs in SB20, 18 and 14 ft skiffs, won Cowes Week in the IRC1 and Extreme 40s and been in boats since overnighters with the folks on Lake Rotoiti as a 5 year old...I'm here to thank Neil for teaching me the many previously unknown facets of the Yachtmaster programme." settings Grant Rollerson settings ENROL FOR THIS COURSE

This e-learning course has been developed by Above & Beyond Boating. The course content covers the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore Syllabus.

There are 12 course units, comprising of lessons and activities. Lessons are structured with dynamic content and quiz exercises, which provide immediate feedback, to test your knowledge. On completion of the course units, you will be required to complete some online assessments to receive your certificate.

The RYA course framework has been used with Australian and International scenario based case studies to ensure you finish the course with confidence to undertake coastal passages.

The course takes around 40 hours in total to study. The self-paced e-learning structure allows you to log in and work through the course material in your own time.

RYA/MCA Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Course Certificate.

The RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore course builds upon the navigation, meteorology, and passage making that is delivered in the  RYA Day Skipper Theory Course . This RYA training course will introduce new topics and develop a deeper understanding of familiar topics. All units of this course have an assumed prior knowledge of the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course.

Above & Beyond Boating is here to help! If you are not sure which course is best suited for your skills and future boating aspirations, please contact us today to discuss your pathway.

Once you have completed the twelve units of study, there are three assessment papers to complete in the online course. There is a Chartwork assessment, IRPCS assessment, and a Passage Making assessment.

When you have submitted an assessment attempt, it will be marked by a course instructor, and you will be provided with feedback. If you do not pass your assessment on your first attempt, we will provide feedback to help you prepare for another attempt. You can re-sit an exam again when you are ready.

A formal exam invigilation is required if you intend to gain an MCA large yacht qualification, such as the Officer of the Watch or Master 3000. Should you require a formal exam, we can assist with finding an RYA Training Centre in Australia, or internationally, to invigilate.

Our courses have been specifically designed for an online learning experience. Enrolment in an online course presents a flexible opportunity to work at your own pace. Our team can provide feedback, instruction and personal support to help you get the answers you need. 

RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster ™ Offshore Theory (Online)

• This course looks to refine the techniques learnt in your RYA Day Skipper Theory course
• International Maritime Law
• Passage Planning
• Meteorology
• Environmental care

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ theory is a more advanced course that builds on the knowledge gained at the RYA Day Skipper Theory level. Its aim is to take your theory knowledge to the standard required for the Yachtmaster™ Coastal and Yachtmaster™ Offshore practical course.

This course is open to anyone who has already completed Day Skipper Theory, and ideally has some practical boating experience. You should be comfortable applying concepts such as tidal heights and streams and interpreting weather information. You will be familiar with pilotage and passage planning. You will feel at ease with the practical and thorough application of the IRPCS. You will understand how to fix position using a variety of methods. Your knowledge of safety systems and practices will be substantial.

Your full training pack contents include:

• Two RYA practice charts
• The RYA Coastal / Yachtmaster course notes
• The RYA Coastal / Yachtmaster exercises
• The RYA Training Almanac

Please note: Your online course is provided by Navathome. Booking conditions are not the same as for courses delivered by Andrew Simpson Yachting.  

Notes on shipping of training materials.

All training materials for the online courses are shipped to you the buyer. Please be aware of the Navathome policy relating to shipping. This forms part of their terms and conditions.

• Navathome is unable to ship to addresses which contain PO Box Numbers. A physical address will be required.
• Buyers must provide a valid contact telephone number at the time of booking
• Packs being shipped to Russia must be delivered to a business address.
• All packs must be signed for, so the buyer must ensure that there will be somebody available to accept the package
• Navathome will not accept responsibility for packs sent to marinas, or c/o addresses. If the pack goes missing after it has been signed for, the buyer will be liable for the cost of the replacement pack. 

Course Outcomes

• With this qualification combined with additional practical experience, you should be equipped with the knowledge required to consider the RYA Yachtmaster ™ Coastal or Yachtmaster ™ Offshore examination.

Course Dates

If you can't find what you are looking for online, please contact us directly to discuss options available to you.

[email protected]

• Course Login

RYA Online Courses

Rya yachtmaster online course.

£ 315.00

Description

The RYA Yachtmaster online theory course is an advanced  course that builds on the knowledge gained on the shorebased Day Skipper course. The course is aimed at sailors and motor boaters who are looking to undertake more complex passages, perhaps offshore or at night. This course is a must for those looking to work towards taking the RYA Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.

The RYA Online Yachtmaster course costs £315.00 and includes the RYA Course pack which contains: 2 Full size Training charts, a Training Almanac and Shorbased notes that will act as an Aide-mémoire throught the online course

***NEW***  When you purchase this course you will also gain full access to our new Online  Diesel Engine  course.

The Yachtmaster online course is an intensive programme covering advanced navigation techniques. It includes position fixing, course shaping and plotting, tidal knowledge, secondary port calculations, navigation in restricted visibility, Admiralty publications and electronic position finding equipment.

The meteorology tuition within the course includes the taking and interpretation of forecasts, plotting of weather systems and weather prediction. Students are shown how to use this information when planning and executing passage plans. The International Regulations for Prevention of Collision at Sea are dealt with in detail and you will also learn more about yacht stability and safety offshore.

Students will need to have a valid RYA Day Skipper theory certificate or equivalent and have thoroughly revised the Collision Regulations before taking the course.

YACHTMASTER QUALIFICATION WITH AN RYA APPROVED COURSE

The animated lessons are not matched in any other Yachtmaster online course. They are designed to make learning interesting and questions easy.

Assessment methods within the courses ensure student training is  E valuated,  V alidated and  R ecorded.

The majority of Yachtmaster Online courses are mainly narrated videos and slideshows and to be honest, you may as well buy a book.

Our Yachtmaster online courses are fully animated lessons with an optional voice over so you get the best of everything.

Click here for a  Free Trial

You will receive RYA Certification on satisfactory completion of the course.

The RYA Yachtmaster online course is provided by Navathome, a RYA Recognised Training Centre specialising in online training, and includes: a course pack consisting of training charts, exercises pack, Yachtmaster shorebased booklet,  and your certificate, which is normally priced at £40.00. Plus, a Training Almanac normally priced at £7.49 (Day Skipper/Yachtmaster).

By clicking a payment button you are agreeing to Navathome’s terms and conditions available  here .

To Purchase your course just click your preferred payment method below.

The RYA Online Yachtmaster course normally costs £315

YACHTMASTER ONLINE COURSE TOPICS INCLUDE:

• position fixing
• course shaping and plotting
• tidal knowledge
• use of almanacs and admiralty publications
• electronic position finding equipment
• taking and interpreting forecasts
• plotting weather systems
• weather predictions using a barometer and by observation
• collision regulations
• customs and excise regulations for cruising abroad

There is a six-month initial access period to the online theory course. In the unlikely event that you will need an extension, there is an option to extend as many times as you like until you pass your assessment. The cost of administrating each 6-month extension, beyond the initial 6 months, is £30.

This is an advanced course in navigation and meteorology for candidates for the Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate.

This course will take your theory knowledge to the standard required for the Yachtmaster™ Coastal and Yachtmaster™ Offshore practical exams, concentrating on advanced navigation and meteorology skills.

As with the Day Skipper shorebased course, the RYA’s specially designed chart plotter software will be used during the course to give you a realistic taste of modern electronic navigation.

Those who have not acquired the knowledge set out in the Day Skipper course are unlikely to be able to assimilate all the subjects covered in this advanced course.

1. Position

• Dead reckoning and estimated position
• Satellite-derived position
• Use of waypoints to fix position
• Radar fixes
• Techniques of visual fixing
• Fixes using a mixture of position lines
• Relative accuracy of different methods of position fixing
• Area of uncertainty

2. The magnetic compass

• Allowance for variation
• Change of variation with time and position
• Causes of deviation
• Swing for deviation (but not correction)
• Allowance for deviation
• Different types of compass
• Causes of tide – Springs and Neaps
• Tide tables – sources
• Tidal levels and datum
• Standard and secondary ports
• Tide anomalies (Solent, etc.)

4. Tidal Streams

• Sources of tidal information
• Tidal stream information in sailing directions and Yachtsmen’s Almanacs
• Allowance for tidal streams in computing a course to steer
• Tide rips, overfalls and races
• Tidal observation buoys, beacons etc.
• IALA system buoyage in Region A
• Limitations of buoys as navigational aids
• Characteristics
• Ranges – visual, luminous and nominal
• Rising and dipping distances
• Light lists

7. Pilotage

• Harbour regulations and control signals
• Methods of pre-planning
• Clearing lines
• Use of soundings
• Transits and leading lines

8. GPS and chart plotters

• Principles of operation and limitations of use
• Raster and vector charts
• Importance of confirmation of position by an independent source and keeping a separate record of position
• Importance of paper charts

9. Echo sounders

10. logs (speed and distance measuring).

• Principles of operation limitations of use

11. Deck log

• Importance of log as yacht’s official document
• Layout of log, hourly and occasional entries

12. Meteorology

• Basic terms, the Beaufort scale b. Air masses c. Cloud types d. Weather patterns associated with pressure and frontal systems e. Sources of weather forecasts f. Ability to interpret a shipping forecast, weatherfax and weather satellite information g. Land and sea breezes h. Sea fog i. Use of barometer as a forecasting aid

13. Rules of the Road

• A sound knowledge of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, except Annexes 1 and 3

14. Safety at Sea

• Personal safety, use of lifejackets, safety harnesses and lifelines
• Fire prevention and fire fighting
• Distress signals
• Coastguard and Boat Safety Scheme
• Preparation for heavy weather
• Liferafts and helicopter rescue
• Understanding of capabilities of vessel and basic knowledge of stability

15. Navigation in restricted visibility

• Precautions to be taken in fog
• Limitations to safe navigation imposed by fog
• Navigation in poor visibility

16. Passage planning

• Preparation of charts and notebook for route planning and making, and use at sea
• Customs regulations as they apply to yachts
• Routine for navigating in coastal waters
• Strategy for course laying
• Use of waypoints and routes
• Use of weather forecast information for passage planning strategy
• Sources of local and national regulations

Packs will be delivered for free to destinations within most of the mainland United Kingdom.

We cannot deliver to a PO Box address. A physical address will be required in all circumstances.

A valid contact telephone number for the student will also need to be provided at the time of making the booking.

Packs to Russia must go to a Business address.

Sailtrain will not accept responsibility for Packs sent to Marinas, or C/O addresses. If the pack goes missing after it has been signed for, replacement packs will only be provided at the students expense.

Details of any special delivery requirements should be provided in the notes section of your Booking form.

The shipment of packs to the following countries not shown above will incur the below indicated additional charge:

You may also like…

RYA VHF RADIO COURSE ONLINE

Cockpit Cards

PPR – PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE AND RESPONSIBILITY COURSE ONLINE

© Copyright Sailtrain Ltd 2024, All Rights Reserved | Sitemap | Privacy Policy

Register today and get £50 off

Enter voucher code HOME STUDY in the booking form

RYA Day Skipper & Yachtmaster online theory courses

Study and pass your RYA theory qualifications with our enjoyable and informative online courses for leisure and professional sailors.

For aspiring skippers

RYA Day Skipper

Online Theory Course

Coastal / Offshore

RYA Yachtmaster

25% off multiple bookings - study with family or friends and get a great discount, call us for advice on 0238 218 2604, “amazing, the course is so easy to follow and there is a huge amount of support. for anyone wanting to sit an rya theory course skippers online is definitely the place to choose.”.

What makes our courses different

Our engaging and informative Day Skipper and Yachtmaster online theory courses use fully narrated and animated lessons to provide enjoyable, high-quality, in-depth theory training . With regular exercises in each lesson and mock exams to prepare you for the real thing, you’ll confidently work towards your RYA qualification with us.

What do our customers think of us?

Rated 4.9 out of 5

By far the best course available

Having researched a number of Day Skipper online theory courses this was by far the best I could find. The course was extremely well written. I have received similar training in other professions but none as well crafted as this.

Andrew Harvey

Excellent Yachtmaster theory course - I’d definitely recommend it.

Does what it says on the tin and more. I was impressed how well the course managed to tackle teaching relatively complex skills in a logical and easy to understand way.

Katherine Fleming

Can’t imagine it being done better than this.

Really well designed and executed online Day Skipper course. Real life, quick and friendly support on hand. Honestly can’t imagine it being done better than this.

The benefits of studying online with us

We believe that the flexibility to study at your own pace, our high quality instructor support, and our comprehensive training package provide the most effective way of studying  RYA Day Skipper online theory or Yachtmaster online theory courses.

Test your theory knowledge

Try our RYA theory quiz to test your knowledge and see whether our Day Skipper or Yachtmaster theory course is best for you.

START YOUR RYA ONLINE THEORY COURSE NOW - and begin studying straight away

• No products in the cart.

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (Online)

£ 325.00

The online RYA Yachtmaster theory course takes your theory knowledge to the standard required for the Yachtmaster Coastal and Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams. This course advances your skills as a skipper of a yacht or motor boat, with an emphasis on navigation and passage planning for more complex coastal or offshore passages by day and night.

Description

The online RYA Yachtmaster theory course takes your theory knowledge to the standard required for the Yachtmaster Coastal and Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.

This course advances your skills as a skipper of a yacht or motor boat, with an emphasis on navigation and passage planning for more complex coastal or offshore passages by day and night. Includes some time for the revision of Day Skipper subjects then moves on to cover a greater depth of knowledge and more advanced skills in navigation, pilotage & meteorology.

Successfully gaining your RYA Yachtmaster theory certificate will enable you to confidently work towards your Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore practical qualification.

What's Included

• 14-day unconditional money-back guarantee.
• 17 fully-narrated online lessons including animations, videos and realistic 3D graphics.
• Embedded quizzes with instant feedback in each lesson.14 self-assessment exercises with fully worked answers.
• Over 50 downloadable or linked resources.
• Videos covering: updating paper charts, engine checks, dismasting, jury rig, flood control, firefighting, gas explosions, capsize, lifejacket checks, how to put on a lifejacket and what happens when it inflates, man-overboard recovery, launching and boarding a liferaft.
• Free Radar course.
• RYA Student Pack (including 2 training charts, training almanac & course handbook).
• Mock exams to prepare you for the real thing and give you the confidence to pass.
• 3 final online exams with detailed instructor feedback and free repeat attempts if required.
• RYA Yachtmaster Shorebased Theory Course Completion Certificate.
• 12 months access to study with instructor support and exams – you can extend this if you want.
• Lifetime access to training materials once you’ve completed the course.

Previous Experience

Course itinerary.

The course is covered in 40 hours which you can spread over a 12 months period if necessary.

Related products

RYA Ocean Theory (Online)

RYA Day Skipper Theory (Online)

Kraken Travel

Get in touch to plan your adventure

+44 2080 128 209

Various dates available

Rya / mca yachtmaster ocean theory online, from £295.00 per person.

We recognise that being stuck at inside can be a pain, especially when all you want to do is to get out on the water. So, we've teamed up with Skippers Online to provide some sailing themed fun and learning from the comfort of your own home.

Why not take the time to get stuck into interesting and immersive classes and work your way towards your RYA / MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Online.

This is the perfect course for those aspiring to open ocean cruising and is ideal for holders of the Yachtmaster Offshore certificate who are preparing for their first ocean passage. Prior to the course, your navigation skills should be at the standard of the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore theory course.

This course will cover topics such as the earth and the celestial sphere, sun, star and other sights, Meridian altitudes, provide a practical guide for the use and care of a sextant at sea and prepare you for ocean passage planning.

Once you have successfully completed the course you will receive an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory certificate.

Realistic Scenarios and Step by Step Instruction

We use realistic 3D graphics and videos to illustrate scenarios exactly as they might appear from onboard your vessel. This is particularly valuable when teaching The Collision Regulations, Buoyage and Pilotage. Straightforward, narrated and animated, step-by-step instructions, incorporating regular quizzes and exercises, teach navigation, meteorology, the collision regulations, buoyage and safety at your own pace.

Unlimited Exam Resits

We prepare you carefully for the final exams, which are taken online after you've attempted mock papers. If you don't quite make the grade, we provide detailed personal feedback, suggest relevant additional study and allow unlimited resits.

The Platform

Skippers Online employs the same state-of-the-art technology chosen by major corporations such as IBM, Microsoft and Sony to deliver online training to their employees. Our lessons run on Windows PCs, Macs, iPads, iPhones and Android devices.

If you don't always have access to an Internet connection, you can view lessons offline on an iOS or Android device.

Plotter & divider sets are also available.

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory modules include:

Introduction & Basic Astro Navigation Theory | Using a Sextant | Meridian Passage | Sun Sights | Plotting Your Position | Planet Sights | Moon Sights | Star Sights | Latitude by Polaris (The Pole Star) | Compass Check by Sun’s Amplitude | Ocean Weather & Tropical Storms | Passage Planning | Satellite, HF communications and obtaining weather data

Try before you buy!

Have a go at some of the sample lessons:

Yachtmaster Ocean Astronavigation

Day Skipper Buoyage

Coastal Skipper Pilotage

• More than 30 quizzes and exercises that check your understanding of each topic
• 1000s of 3D images, animations, videos, downloadable resources and external references
• Instructor Support 7 days a week
• 6 months access
• Unlimited exam attempts
• RYA Course Completion Certificate when you’ve passed your exams
• 2 RYA Training Charts
• The RYA Training Almanac
• Course Handbook
• Free 1st Class UK Delivery (+£10 for Europe, £20 Worldwide)
• Optional Plotter & Divider Kit (£28)

Why should I consider online training?

Good contemporary online training is fun and engaging, gets results and saves you money. Not everyone learns at the same pace and with eLearning you can study any-time, anywhere with an Internet connection, going back and forth between lessons at will.

What’s different about this online training?

All our lessons are narrated, unlike older generation online learning for RYA theory courses which expect you to read everything from the screen, much like reading a book. Think of it as a cross between attending lectures, watching a movie, playing a game and undertaking exercises on paper.

Our online training incorporates stunning 3D graphics which allow you to view scenarios from the perspective of a yacht’s cockpit, rather than simple diagrams viewed solely from above.

Quizzes use a variety of question types, not just multiple-choice (see the quiz at the end of the sample lesson on buoyage). When you take a quiz you get immediate feedback and when you undertake a written exercise you get not only the answers but fully worked demonstrations of how to get there.

Our lessons are designed by a highly-experienced Yachtmaster Instructor who lived a previous life in the software products industry, so knows exactly how to deliver high-quality online training solutions. It is developed by a professional team of programmers, graphic designers and voice-over artists dedicated to ensuring the best possible customer experience.

Our online training is based on the very latest eLearning technology as used by major organisation such as: Rolls Royce, IBM, 20th Century Fox, Samsung, Sony, AT&T, Lego, SAP, VW, Pfizer, Harley Davidson, many universities, schools and colleges. This contrasts with other products which are based on home-grown software. Amongst many other benefits, this mean you can navigate at will within and between lessons, pause or leave a lesson and return later to exactly where you left off. It also means that our lessons run perfectly on PCs, Macs, Android and iOS devices including tablets and even phones.  For those who know something about eLearning, our lessons are SCORM compliant which means they are developed according to the de facto industry standard for e-learning interoperability. Specifically, SCORM governs how online learning content and Learning Management Systems (LMSs) communicate with each other.

What are the pre-requisites for Day Skipper?

There aren’t pre-requisites for Day Skipper theory (although there are for the practical course) however it’s useful to have some experience sailing on a yacht or, at the very least, in a dinghy.

How do I know I’m ready for Yachtmaster Theory?

f you’ve already passed Day Skipper and you’ve got some miles under your sea boots then you’re ready. If you haven’t taken a Day Skipper course you need to be confident in your knowledge of the basics of navigation, meteorology and the rule of the road. Students who have a reasonable amount of sea time in the role of skipper or mate should be OK. Actually we do re-visit almost everything taught a Day Skipper level but you need to be realistic about the amount of time we can spend on the basics. If you discover that you really can’t keep up and need to go back to Day Skipper, talk to us and we can either swap your course of provide you with access to both levels for an additional fee.

Can I share my log-in with someone else?

There’s nothing to prevent you from doing this however we will only issue one set of exams and, of course, only one certificate. We can also see how many times you access individual lessons and if we believe someone is abusing the system we will contact you to suggest that you might pay an additional fee of £150 to cover the other person’s use.

What exactly do I get for my money?

For the basic course fee of you get:

Access to the online training materials comprising lessons, self-assessment exercises with model answers, and multiple quizzes.

Email support from a highly experienced Yachtmaster Instructor and, if you really get stuck phone support by way of a pre-arranged Skype call.

The RYA Course Pack comprising: 2 RYA Training Charts, a RYA Training Almanac, an online copy of US Chart 1 (symbols and abbreviations) which is a free Admiralty Chart 5011 substitute, and the RYA training chart-plotter for Windows PCs and Mac

If you are in the UK this will be shipped to you First Class. If you are overseas, it will  be sent Air Mail (+£10 for Europe, +£20 elsewhere) or can shipped by courier for an additional £35. However you can start studying immediately as many of the lessons don’t rely of the printed support materials.

What else do I need?

A device to run the eLearning. This might be a Windows PC or a Mac with a sound card, an iPad or Android tablet or even an iPhone or Android phone. Our eLearning runs on reasonably up-to-date versions of all the major browsers (Internet Explorer , Firefox, Chrome & Safari) however to be fair we have discovered that Chrome can be a little flaky of late, not just with our eLearning but with all sorts of applications that make extensive use of sound and HTML5.

A broadband, 4G or fast 3G Internet connection. It actually runs fine on slower connections but you might experience long waits in the same manner as if watching movies online.

A chart-protractor and chart-dividers (we can provide these for £28 if ordered for delivery with your course pack); 2B pencils; a rubber; an A4 pad for notes and workings; ideally a ring-binder to keep your notes and workings in. That’s about it

Do you offer any sort of guarantee?

Yes. Absolutely. All customers are entitled to a 14-day money-back guarantee. Obviously we also guarantee that our training is fit for purpose. In other words, assuming that you have the necessary equipment (device and Internet connection) it will enable you to follow your chosen course of study. And, whilst we take considerable effort to ensure that it’s free of errors, like any software there’s always the possibility of occasional small problems. If you encounter one let us know and we’ll work hard to rectify it in a timely manner.

What about supporting books?

You shouldn’t really need anything else however, if you do want a text-book to support your learning we recommend: Reeds Skipper’s Handbook by Malcolm Pearson and The Complete (Yachtmaster/Day Skipper) by Tom Cunliffe. You might also wish to purchase a print copy of Admiralty Chart 5011 (Symbols & Abbreviations) rather than use the free US Chart 5011 provided with your course. All are available from Amazon.

How much time will I need to spend studying?

Most students need 40-50 hours in total and the RYA mandates a minimum of 40 hours. Remember with eLearning you can study any-time, anywhere for a few minute at a time if you wish or, at the other end of the spectrum, take a week off and take the entire course.

What if I need more time to complete the course?

You can purchase a 6-month extension for £50 or12-months for £80.

I don’t always have access to an Internet connection. Is there an office version?

In order to run lessons offline you’ll need an iPad or Android tablet with the iSpring Viewer app installed.

Most lessons run perfectly offline however bear in mind that we do use some Internet resources in our teaching, such as YouTube videos, and these won’t be available offline. These are mainly in the lessons on safety.

How are quizzes and the course exercises assessed and marked?

Quizzes present questions from within lessons . You get immediate feedback on your answer and the chance to re-try the question or re-take the quiz as many times as you wish. We’re not looking over your shoulder

The self-assessment exercises are taken online but might including plotting on your RYA training charts, detailed workings and narrative.  You mark them yourself, in exactly the same manner as you would if you attended conventional classroom training. Once you’ve competed an exercise you have online access to not only the answers but also all the detailed workings and explanations as to how to get them. If you really can’t follow our explanation you can ask for help, sending us a scan or photograph of your work.

How do exams work?

Please see  here .

We know that choosing whether to study in a conventional classroom environment or online is a big decision and  want all our students to be 100% satisfied with their choice, so we offer a 14-day money back guarantee.

Our Adventures

With the perfect mix of tropical sun, marine wildlife, and easy sailing, it's easy to see why the british virgin islands is one of the most popular sailing holiday destinations in the world., sailing in the british virgin islands, related products, rya day skipper theory online, start your journey towards becoming a world-class skipper., rya coastal skipper / yachtmaster offshore theory online, with interesting and immersive classes, studying for your rya coastal skipper / yachtmaster offshore theory is great fun and will have you on the water in no time, how we work.

We take data privacy seriously here at Kraken. You can read more here - Privacy Policy .

Do I need specialist sailing insurance?

What is kraken, where do i find details of my booking, how can i pay for my booking.

• Covid-19 £50 Off
• Day Skipper
• Yachtmaster
• Fasttrack Yachtmaster
• RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean
• What's Different about Kipper Sailing?
• Affiliate Programme
• Buy Gift Vouchers
• Our Courses

RYA YACHTMASTER THEORY £315

RYA Yachtmaster Theory

Also sometimes knows as "coastal skipper/yachtmaster theory".

An advanced course for experienced skippers studying towards formal certification to command vessels up to 200GRT or to apply for a MCA Master 200 Oral Examination

• 14-day unconditional money-back guarantee
• 25% off for 2 or more bookings
• 12 months access
• 24*7 Instructor Support  (from UK and Thailand)
• Student Pack (2 charts, training almanac & course handbook)
• RYA chart-plotter software
• 15 fully-narrated lessons (not just the animations) including including realistic 3D graphics and embedded quizzes with instant feedback
• 15 self-assessment exercises with fully worked answers
• Videos covering: updating paper charts, engine checks, dismasting, jury rig, flood control, firefighting, gas explosions, capsize, lifejacket checks, how to put on a lifejacket and what happens when it inflates, man-overboard recovery, launching and boarding a liferaft
• Downloadable US Chart 1 (5011 equivalent) + 48 other downloadable or linked resources 
• Radar & AIS Training
• Mock Exams with automatic feedback
• 4 Final Online Exams with detailed instructor feedback and unlimited attempts. You can arrange your own invigilator. See  exam guidance  for more information.
• Unlimited free exam resits
• RYA Yachtmaster Theory Course Completion Certificate to support your practical course, professional qualification or MCA Master 200 Oral Exam
• Download lessons to run offline on iPads, iPhones and Android Devices
• 2 Years further access to training materials once you’ve completed the course
• UK Delivery by First Class Post. Worldwide delivery by DHL Express (+£20)
• Top quality Portland Plotter and brass chart dividers, £28
• Additional 6 months, £50 or 12 months, £80

RYA Yachtmaster Theory Syllabus

• Charts & Other Publications
• Definition of Position, Time, Speed & Distance
• The Compass (including allowance for deviation and swinging the compass)
• Tidal Theory
• Tidal Heights (including secondary ports)
• Tidal Streams (including interpolation of drift)
• Estimated Position
• Course to Steer
• Visual Aids to Navigation
• Electronic Aids to Navigation
• Passage Planning
• Meteorology (including interpreting surface pressure charts)
• The Collision Regulations
• Safety & Protection of The Environment

25%+ off for multiple bookings

Studying with friends or family is fun and tends to get better results

Order 2 or more courses and get a whopping 25% off every course. Not everybody has to study the same course.

otherwise complete this form to register

You can start studying immediately.

Please be patient. The form might take a few seconds to load.

• Scroll to top

Testimonials

• Marine Services
• RYA Powerboat Scheme
• RYA Motor Cruising Scheme
• RYA Online Courses
• RYA Navigation Courses
• RYA Support Courses
• RYA Instructor Courses
• RYA Sailing Courses
• International Certificate of Competence – ICC
• Own Boat RYA Courses
• Bespoke Tuition
• Hire A Skipper
• Professional Delivery
• Practical Skill Building
• Classroom Skill Building
• Experiences
• Skippered Charter
• Bareboat Charter
• Knowledge Base

Related Courses

Private: RYA Advanced Pilotage

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical

RYA Yachtmaster™ Power – Exam Prep Course

RYA VHF Radio Classroom + Exam

RYA Sea Survival

RYA First Aid

RYA Diesel Engine

Overlay header.

• Information
• Call Us: 0203 006 3717 (9:30am-4:30pm)

Everything You Need To Know About RYA Yachtmaster Theory

In last weeks blog we broke down RYA Day Skipper Practical and how it fits in to your learning progression. RYA Yachtmaster Theory is the next step in that journey and on its completion you opens up RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Course as well as several other interesting optional courses you could take. This blog will tell you Everything You Need To Know About RYA Yachtmaster Theory.

What is RYA Yachtmaster Theory? 

Being a theory course its shore based in a classroom or online via zoom. It assumes you have completed RYA Day Skipper theory or possess a comparable level of knowledge as it teaches you more advanced navigation techniques. You will learn about navigating safely on coastal and offshore passages. If you plan to progress to Coastal Skipper practical, Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore then you should be taking this course.

What RYA Yachtmaster Theory teaches you?

The course in essence will teach you advanced theory of navigation and meteorology.  For those with extensive sailing experience with previous navigational experience, the course builds upon those basic skills. You will be developing a comprehensive depth of knowledge and understanding of navigation theories, techniques and practices.

www.firstclasssailing.com/rya-courses/yachtmaster-theory-course

What can I expect to do?

RYA Yachtmaster Theory is an in-depth course with a wide subject field. But in short it will include position fixing, magnetic compass, tides, tidal streams, buoyage, lights, pilotage, and introduction to GPS and plotters, meteorology, collision prevention regulations, safety, navigation and passage planning among a lot more to numerous to go in-depth about in a short blog.

Where & When Can I take RYA Yachtmaster Theory?

There are three different ways you can take Yachtmaster Theory. We offer classroom based courses in our Southampton (Shamrock Quays) location and across London.  The classroom based course runs for 8 weeks ( 1 evening per week) and a weekend, or over 2 and a half weekends. If you have a suitable space we can also come to your office and run the program for your colleagues. Due to the impact of COVID we adapted our shore based courses for online zoom learning. This became very popular over the pandemic and the flexibility it offers means it has maintained it popularity. Like the in person course is typically run over 8 weeks however is sometimes compressed with multiple lessons a week. Finally we have a purely online version that allows you to dip in and out as and when it suits you. Support from an instructor is only a phone call or email away

What Equipment Will I Need?

No matter if you doing RYA Yachtmaster theory in a classroom, via zoom or online, each format comes with a extensive set of materials to make use of.  All students will receive a RYA work pack of charts, tide tables, port information and mock questions. A website with course slides will also be accessible after each lesson to help you refresh you memory. Those taking the Classroom or Zoom versions will also receive s Cockpit Companion.

To complete the course you will need a set of plotter and dividers. We can provide them to you for £20 to be collected at your first lesson. If your doing the Zoom or Online versions we will courier them to you. You can also opt to buy your own however they will likely be more expensive. If you have already completed RYA Day skipper theory or have the comparable experience you should already have everything you need.

Lastly If you haven’t already got a logbook you should make sure you get one. They are £7.49. The Logbook is a place to record your miles and keep your certificates. It outlines the whole RYA Cruising Scheme giving the course content for each course again if you completed prior course you should already have one of these.

What skills will I have after the course?

On competition of RYA Yachtmaster Theory you should now have the Background knowledge you need to skipper a yacht on coastal passages by day and night. You can now develop your skills further by moving up a level and taking the RYA Yachtmaster Practical , which in itself opens up several more course options. You can find more information about course options by following the link below.

www.firstclasssailing.com/first-class-sailing-rya-course-progression-plan

Want to get started?

Hopefully this blog has answered Everything You Need To Know about RYA Yachtmaster Theory. If you have any further questions or  you are interested in taking RYA Yachtmaster Theory click here to see availability and dates. You can also E-mail [email protected]  or call 0203 006 3717

Find out more about this course by following the link below. 

www.firstclasssailing.com/rya-courses/day-skipper-theory-course

Posted by: First Class Sailing

Post a Comment Cancel reply

Name (required):

Email (required):

Your comment (required):

• All Categories
• Antigua – Portsmouth
• Atlantic Adventures
• Boat Handling Master Classes
• Channel Crossing – Channel Islands
• Coastguard Closures
• Crowdfunding
• Experiences and Challenges
• Fastnet Race
• Global Ocean Race
• Golden Vanity
• Learn to Sail
• Night Sailing
• Norway Challenger
• OnLine Learning
• Passage Planning
• Portsmouth – Gran Canaria
• Round the Island Race
• RYA Competent Crew
• RYA Courses
• RYA Day Skipper
• RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance Course
• RYA VHF Radio Course
• RYA Yachtmaster
• Sail Round Britain
• Sailing Around Britain
• Sailing Events
• Sailing Holidays
• Sailing in media
• Sailing in the West Country
• Sailing Tales
• Sailing Trips
• Skippered Charter
• Southampton Sailing Week
• Traditional Sailing
• UK Sailing Holildays
• Whole Boat Charter
• Yacht Design

• The Real Ships Of Disney’s Pirates Of The Caribbean 44 views
• How to Remember Port and Starboard: A Simple Guide 31 views
• How Black Sails Blends Fiction & Real History 13 views

We love to hear from our customers and we are happy to call/email you to discuss your sailing needs.

Important Notice

You are using an out of date version of Internet Explorer!

This browser may prevent this website from displaying and functioning as intended.

Please click here to upgrade.

Late notice spaces available for selected courses - click here for details

Online RYA Theory Courses

Take a look at the online-based RYA theory sailing courses we offer, from beginner to expert we have an online sailing theory course that will appeal to everyone!

From RYA Essential Navigation and RYA Day Skipper Theory online for those wanting that all-important driving licence for the sea, VHF/SRC for those who want to gain their VHF licence and many more all the way up to RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean for those wanting to go professional!

You can also renew or extend an existing RYA online sailing theory course with us as well! You will have 6 months from ordering the course to completion (extensions are avalible)

Online RYA Essential Navigation and Safety

A great introduction to basic navigation and safety awareness for anyone who is interested in starting their navigation skills off the right way. This course helps with any watersport from fishing and dinghy sailing up to yachting.

CEVNI Inland Waterways Test

CEVNI stands for Code Europeen des Voies de Navigation Interieure. It is the code governing navigation on the interconnected European inland waterways (the cannals of Europe). This online course will expand your knowledge and will be essential for anyone wanting to hire a boat abroad for use on onland canals.

Online RYA Day Skipper Theory

The online RYA Day Skipper Course is a great way to do your theory course without having to attend at our offices. This course brings students with at least the RYA Competent Crew qualification and some sailing experience, up to skipper level (Theory only).

Online RYA Yachtmaster™ Coastal Theory

The online RYA Yachtmaster™ Coastal Theory Course brings students with at least the RYA Day Skipper / Coastal Skipper qualification and a sound level of sailing experience, up to Yachtmaster™ Coastal level (Theory only).

Online RYA Professional Practices and Responsibilities (PPR)

The online RYA Professional Practices and Responsibilities (PPR) Course is an essential must-have for anyone who wants to make working at sea their chosen career. A great add-on to any RYA professional course like Yachtmaster.

Online RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory

Online RYA VHF/SRC Radio

The online RYA SRC/VHF Radio Course is the minimum qualification required by law to operate the VHF or VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) requipment on any British flagged vessel carrying a radio. Essential for all sailors, it’s invaluable no matter where you sail.

Online course renewal

Has your NAVATHOME online theory course training period expired? Renew for another six months for only £30

Online Safe and Fun

Doing your instructor course shortly? Sign up for the RYA Safe and Fun course to learn about Safeguarding of vulnerable people.

Live Course Calendar

Bespoke events, customer reviews.

Excellent RYA First Aid course. The instructor, Tom, certainly knew his stuff. The course was a positive learning experience made interesting by detailed explanation and hands on practice sessions. If you want to learn an extremely useful skill I thoroughly recommend this course.

We've chartered on several occasions and the yachts have always been great. We recently did a days boat handling refresher. Commodore maintained social distancing and protocols without making the day awkward or any less value. Just wish the weather had been better for July!

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news & offers

You are logged in as

• Safety & Seamanship – Rise and Fall of Tide
• Chart Introduction – How to use Portland Plotter
• Tides – How Tides are Created
• Chart Fixes – Introducing the Compass
• Privacy Policy
• Privacy Tools
• Terms & Conditions

Yachtmaster Online Theory Course

Advanced training for more experienced skippers building on the Day Skipper course.

“This course equips you to navigate safely on coastal and offshore passages. This course will take your theory knowledge to the standard required for the Yachtmaster™ Coastal and Yachtmaster™ Offshore practical exams, concentrating on advanced navigation and meteorology skills”.

– Royal Yachting Association

The most experienced yachtsmen and yachtswomen around the world agree that the Yachtmaster Coastal & Yachtmaster Offshore examinations are the most useful and credible of all yachting qualifications. RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ theory is a fundamental step towards gaining these practical Certificates of Competence. Whether you wish to use the Yachtmaster™ Coastal and Yachtmaster™ Offshore practical exams as a stepping stone to a career on the water, or you just want to challenge your self to obtaining the ticket for personal use, you will be among an elite group of sailors.

Our Unique Course Material

There are lots of online sailing schools out there offering the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Theory Course. You’d be forgiven for thinking that all of these courses were the same – but they are not. Sure, they all need to cover the same syllabus. However, each individual sailing school is responsible for creating the online content to teach that syllabus.

In our opinion, when you are learning practical skills such as nautical navigation, weather and collision regulations, the learning material is really important. This is why we have created interactive, engaging videos to illustrate each and every point in the syllabus. We’ve gone to great lengths to ensure that our videos are the best, most effective way for our students to learn the skills this course is designed to provide.

Our videos make the course material easy to digest, clear and enjoyable. It’s also resulted in us having a 100% pass rate to date! Watch Sample Course Material

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Theory Syllabus

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ theory course equips you to navigate safely on coastal and offshore passages and to foreign destinations and can be used as a stepping stone towards a career on the water.  The Nav-School course comprehensively covers the full RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Syllabus.

• position fixing
• course shaping and plotting
• tidal knowledge
• use of almanacs and admiralty publications
• electronic position finding equipment
• taking and interpreting forecasts
• plotting weather systems
• weather predictions using a barometer and by observation
• collision regulations
• customs and excise regulations for cruising abroad
• it allows some time for revision of the basics and then moves on to advanced navigation techniques

Taken from the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) website

Who Should Take the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Theory Course?

Candidates for the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ theory should have good sound basic knowledge up to the level of RYA Day Skipper Theory. It is an advanced course that builds on the knowledge gained at the theory Day Skipper level. It is aimed at sailors and motor boaters who are looking to undertake more complex coastal passages, offshore and at night.

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ theory is a fundamental step towards gaining the practical Yachtmaster Certificates of Competence. Whether you wish to use the Yachtmaster™ Coastal and Yachtmaster™ Offshore practical exams as a stepping stone to a career on the water, or you just want to challenge yourself to obtaining the ticket for personal use, you will be among an elite group of sailors.

How Long Does the Course Take to Complete?

There’s no set answer to this. The beauty of it being an online course is that you can complete it at your own pace, at a time that suits you. Our RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ theory course takes approximately 40 to 45 hours to complete. This can be completed within an intense fortnight, or a leisurely couple of months. We don’t mind, we just want you to complete it at a rate that suits you.

If you’d like to get started, just click the button below to sign up to the course and complete your payment. Once you’ve done this, you’ll get access to all our course material and our full learning management system. You will also receive an email from your designated course tutor who is a fully qualified Yachtmaster Instructor. They are available at any point should you have any questions or problems during your course.

We look forward to speaking with you!

RYA Yachtmaster THEORY

Multi device and platform compatible

      Study wherever you are anywhere in the world

      Dedicated instructor support 365 days a year

      Progress at your own pace with regular tests

RYA Certification on completion of course

⇒ FREE TRIAL LESSON YACHTMASTER

• Unlimited support from our dedicated RYA Instructors – 365 days a year via email, phone or Skype/Zoom.
• 14-day unconditional money-back guarantee.
• 17 fully-narrated online lessons including animations, videos and realistic 3D graphics.
• Embedded quizzes with instant feedback in each lesson.
• 14 self-assessment exercises with fully worked answers.
• Over 50 downloadable or linked resources.
• Videos covering: updating paper charts, engine checks, dismasting, jury rig, flood control, firefighting, gas explosions, capsize, lifejacket checks, how to put on a lifejacket and what happens when it inflates, man-overboard recovery, launching and boarding a liferaft.
• Free Radar course.
• RYA Student Pack (including 2 training charts, training almanac & course handbook).
• Mock exams to prepare you for the real thing and give you the confidence to pass. 
• 3 final online exams with detailed instructor feedback and free repeat attempts if requried.
• RYA Yachtmaster Shorebased Theory Course Completion Certificate.
• 12 months access to study with instructor support and exams – you can extend this if you want.
• Lifetime access to training materials once you’ve completed the course.

This course is accessed online with no additional software required.

You can also download courses for offline viewing via the free iSpring Play app.

Lessons are accompanied by optional professional narration, and notes. 

They are intuitive and easy to follow, whilst more complex subjects are accompanied by interactive animations and graphics to help you gain a full knowledge of each subject in the course syllabus.

Detailed step-by-step workings for navigational or tidal calculations make it easy for you to follow along as we show you how to plot positions, make tidal height and stream calculations, etc

You can go over these again and again, and test your knowledge with regular quizzes throughout each lesson. 

At the end of each lesson there is an excercise containg similar questions to the exam, with detailed and illustrated answers sent to you immediately to confirm your progress and fully prepare you for your mock and final exams.

You can repeat entire lessons and excercises as often as you wish until you are confident that you fully understand each subject.

When you have completed the course you can request mock and then final exams.

These are assessed by our RYA Instructors and detailed feedback is provided in any areas that may require further study within the course.

If you pass the final exams you will be awarded the  RYA/MCA Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Course Certificate , which will be posted to you.

Additional free resits, with suitable Instructor guidance, are available if required.

• Charts & Other Publications
• Definition of Position, Time, Speed & Distance
• The Compass (including allowance for deviation and swinging the compass)
• Tidal Theory
• Tidal Heights (including secondary ports)
• Tidal Streams (including interpolation of drift)
• Estimated Position
• Course to Steer
• Visual Aids to Navigation
• Electronic Aids to Navigation
• Passage Planning
• Meteorology (including interpreting surface pressure charts)
• The Collision Regulations
• Safety & Protection of The Environment

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN ANY OF OUR COURSES?

Privacy overview.

Online Theory Courses

Sail away with Melbourne’s longest running sailing school

Online Coastal Navigation

This entry level navigation course gives you a firm foundation in practical navigation and seamanship. Covering traditional skills as well as the latest in GPS and electronic systems.

Online RYA Day Skipper Theory Bridging

This is a bridging course that builds on the knowledge already gained in the Coastal Navigation course and involves an extra two days and an evening exam.

Online RYA Yachtmaster Theory

An advanced navigation course for the Coastal Skipper. You have already qualified as a Day Skipper or equivalent.

Online Safety & Sea Survival

This essential course covers preparing to go to sea, emergency procedures, safety equipment and heavy weather. With in-depth advice and information on safety and survival skills required at sea.

Online Marine Radio Operators

This course will cover all facets of the Marine Radio Operators Certificate which is required to operate a marine VHF or HF radio.

Online RYA Diesel Engine Course

The aim of this course is to gain a full understanding of your marine diesel engine and help to prevent machinery breakdown at sea.

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail – All You Need To Know

The goal of the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course is to teach the skills and techniques required to skipper a cruising yacht safely on coastal and offshore passages by day and night. 

If you have not already done your RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore Theory, then you should do that first. You can find more information about our online course here; RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore Theory .

What Does the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail Allow You to Do?

You will gain practice in planning and skippering longer passages with a significant number of night hours where watch-keeping rotas become relevant. At the end of the course, a successful candidate would be awarded a course completion certificate.

An RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course gives you the confidence to skipper a yacht in unfamiliar waters, out of sight of land, both during the day and at night. It also gives credibility to the holder’s higher skill levels and will likely be looked at positively by insurance companies.

Occasionally, charter companies may ask for an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail certificate for their larger sizes of yachts or for chartering in more complex sailing grounds.

Nobody will be ready to jump straight into a commercial RYA Yachtmaster exam on completion of an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course, but the skillsets taught will enable the student to continue building their knowledge and experience as they progress in their sailing career.

Who Can Do an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail?

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course is open to anyone who meets the basic minimum criteria.

• 17 years of age or older
• 15 days spent at sea
• 300nm sailed
• 8 night hours experienced on the water
• 2 days as skipper

If you have sailing experience but not skippering experience, then you will want to take the RYA Day Skipper Practical Sail course. You can read more about that here. (linked to day skip sail blog)

Can You Go Straight to the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail Course?

You should aim to complete your RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore Theory before attending your RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course.

While this is not a beginner’s course, so long as you have the relevant experience and skippering skills as described above then you can indeed, go straight into RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail.

It should be noted however, that on the RYA Day Skipper Practical Sail course certain building blocks in your learning will have taken place and so if you do not have at least a few days of experience as a skipper of a small vessel then it is recommended that you start at the RYA Day Skipper Practical Sail in order to consolidate your knowledge of boat handling and skippering techniques.

How Long Does an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail Take?

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail is a minimum of a 5-day live-aboard course, however, some schools may choose to extend this.

Is There a Set Syllabus?

There is indeed a syllabus. Each of the following topics represents a specific part of the learnings that will be covered on an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course in varying levels of detail.

Passage planning, preparation for sea, pilotage, passage making, ability as skipper, yacht handling under power, yacht handling under sail, adverse weather conditions and emergency situations detail the various aspects of the syllabus.

Read on to learn in a little more about how each of these is covered in a little more detail.

What Might I Learn on an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail Course?

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course is one of the most rewarding courses within the RYA cruising scheme.

On this course, you will advance your sailing and navigational skills from those previously learned. The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail will take your RYA Day Skipper Practical Sail skills to a higher level. With this, you will gain more independence in your skippering.

The highlight of the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course will see you take on a longer passage that involves some kind of watchkeeping, something you may not have been part of before, especially while also responsible for skippering and navigation. This passage will ideally be out of sight of land and include numerous hours both during the day and at night.

Inevitably, the passage will also cover more than one tidal period or window while also overlaying various weather forecast times. Covering these in a practical scenario, under the guidance of an experienced instructor will allow you to truly see and feel how much these will affect your passage and why we need to take careful consideration of them at all times.

Further passage planning and preparation to a coastal level will be covered, while pilotage will now be covered by night as well as day. 

Handling the vessel under power and under sail will not be forgotten about as you will be put through more advanced learnings such as downwind sailing techniques and close-quarter manoeuvres. 

Finally, of course, during the week you will cover various emergency situations, including the recovery of a casualty and understanding how to handle adverse weather.

What Is the Cost of a Course?

As ever, many schools differ in price. We would recommend that you take a look around at the various options and find what suits your needs the best. Cheapest is not often better.

This can range from knowing if you will have to share a cabin while onboard, to whether food and berthing charges are included, to how many other students you will be sharing your week and instructors time with.

Where Should I Do My RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail Course?

There are many thoughts on where is best, but to be truthful, it is what works for you best. 

One thought is to do it in an area that you wouldn’t normally sail in, that way, you can gain learnings and experiences that are uncommon to you.

It is also important to know where you might be sailing to. Ideally, you want to be sailing out of sight of land at some point on an extended passage that covers a number of night hours. You do not want to be returning to the same home port every night.

Check here for RYA practical schools.

What Is the Pass Mark for the Course?

There is no specific pass mark as such. The instructor’s aim is to introduce you to the skills, techniques and experiences of cruising out of sight of land, on a watch system and making landfall.

These may all be introductions to you in this area and as such, each student will find they are at a different level.

The instructor for your course will guide and personalise any learnings so as to improve your knowledge and skills as best as possible.

As long as you are willing to put the effort into learning these skills and have come with the relevant knowledge and experience then you should be confident in achieving the desired standard to be awarded the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail course completion certification.

What Comes After RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail

This is the highest practical course within the RYA cruising scheme. Ideally, you want to go on and consolidate all your learnings and gain experience in a range of conditions, boats and passages.

As you venture out on your travels, be sure to study any special characteristics you will come across in new unfamiliar waters such as med moorings, unusual winds or IALA B.

Once you have consolidated your knowledge, you can start to think about aiming for your RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Sail or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Sail Exams.

Releated Posts

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor – All You Need To Know

RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory – All The Information You Need

Your Comment*

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.