yachtmaster ocean practical course

• Certificates of Competence

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Exam

Full details of the exam syllabus and requirements are shown in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158), which is available from the RYA webshop.

The exam consists of an oral and written test.

The candidate must provide the examiner with the following information 48 hours prior to the exam:

• A narrative account of the planning and execution of the qualifying passage providing all relevant details.
• Navigational records, completed on board a yacht on passage, out of sight of land showing that the candidate has navigated the yacht without the use of electronic navigational aids. The records must include as a minimum, planning, reduction and plotting of a sun run meridian altitude sight and a compass check carried out using the bearing of the sun, moon, a star or planet.

During the oral test the candidate will be required to answer questions on all aspects of ocean passage making in a yacht, including passage planning, navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management and yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs.

The written exam will include questions on sights and sight reduction and worldwide meteorology.

Candidates who hold the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Course Completion Certificate (final exam must have been invigilated at an RYA RTC), or a MCA issued full STCW Certificate of Competence as a Deck Officer (Unlimited) will be exempt from the written examination.

Before you book your exam please check that you:

• have completed the required mileage and experience as skipper
• have read the syllabus in RYA Logbook (G158)
• have read and comply with the pre-requisites above.

If you need your Certificate of Competence in order to work on board a commercial craft subject the MCA's codes of practice, you will need to get it commercially endorsed - see 'Related articles'.

Please note: Only those who hold the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence are eligible to receive the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence on passing the oral exam. Those holding OOW (Yacht 3000gt) will receive a pass confirmation certificate.

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean exam pre-requisites

Neptune Maritime Training Sail & Power

Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, using a sextant, ocean passage making, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigation aids.

This course is for those aspiring to blue water cruising and is ideal for holders of theYachtmaster Offshore certificate who are preparing for their first ocean passage.

Topics covered include:

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• Practical guide to use and care of sextant at sea
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star and other sights
• Ocean passage planning

Prior to the course your navigation skills should be at the standard of the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore shorebased course.

If you are working towards your Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence, completion of this shorebased course exempts you from the written exam.

The course is taught over 40 hours with one exam paper. It can be covered as a series of short sessions, as an intensive week-long course.

Ocean Yachtmaster Practical

We regularly organise practical experience in taking sights and plotting positions on board. We can also help you achive your quallifing passage.

We will work with you through the process and review your documentation before submitting for assessment.

you are welcome to borrow one of our sextants and almanacs to help you develop your skills before the practical passage.

A person holding a Yachtmaster Ocean qualification is experienced and competent to skipper a yacht on passages of any length in all parts of the world.

Details of Courses and Prices

The Yachtmaster Ocean exam is an oral and written test of your knowledge of ocean passage making including planning, navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management, yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs. You will also be questioned on your sights taken at sea during an ocean passage.

We hold regular Yachtmaster ocean theory courses . these cover the essencial knowledge as well as practice in taking sights and plotting positions while sailing.

Course costs

• RYA yachtmaster ocean course 790e
• practical trip for celestial sights 450e (2 days)
• RYA exam fees for ocean oral 250e (£200 direct to RYA)

What is include

• Course material
• use of a sextant during the course
• RYA course completion certificates
• teas, coffee soft drinks

What is not included

• flights and travel to course
• accomodation ashore
• meals and drinks ashore
• personal travel insurance
• any RYA examination fees for certification

The candidate must provide the examiner with:

• A narrative account of the planning and execution of the qualifying passage
• Navigational records, completed on board a yacht on passages, out of sight of land showing that the candidate has navigated the yacht without the use of electronic navigational aids.

The records must include as a minimum: planning, reduction and plotting of a sun run meridian altitude sight and a compass check carried out using the bearing of the sun, moon, a star or planet.

During the oral test the candidate may be required to answer questions on all aspects of ocean passage making in a yacht, including passage planning, astro navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management and yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs.

The written exam will include questions on star sight planning and reduction and worldwide meteorology. Candidates who hold the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased certificate, Royal Navy Ocean Navigation Certificate or a DoT Certificate of Competence as a Deck Officer will be exempt from the written examination.

Before you book your exam please check that you:

• have completed the required mileage and experience as skipper
• hold a VHF Radio Operators License or Short Range Certificate
• hold a valid first aid certificate
• have read the syllabus in RYA publications: G15 (sail) or G18 (power)
• have read and comply with the pre-requisites above.

If you need a Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence in order to work on board a commercial craft subject to the MCA’s codes of practice, you will need to get it commercially endorsed – see left. You can then work worldwide as a Master of commercial vessels of up to 200gt.

The Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence can be used commercially in its own right. It is also a pre-requisite for the MCA’s Chief Mate, Master 500 and Master 3000 qualifications.

Contact details

[email protected]

• Course Login

RYA Online Courses

Rya yachtmaster ocean online.

£ 275.00

Description

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean online theory course is the first stage in obtaining the prestigious RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence.

The RYA Online Yachtmaster Ocean course costs £275 including the course pack that contains the neseccary Sight Reduction tables, Nautical Almanac extracts, Course information booklet and your Shorebased notes publication that will act as an Aide-mémoire throughout the online course.

This online course is equally suited to those that aspire to blue water cruising, or those who just want to learn traditional navigation.

You do not need a Sextant to take the course.

The Yachtmaster Ocean theory course will equip you with the necessary theoretical skills to carry out an ocean passage as mate or skipper. The course will cover all aspects of ocean navigation, with a particular emphasis on the use of astro-navigation and worldwide meteorology.

The sessions on astro-navigation will unlock the mysteries of the sextant and allow you to confidently take sights at sea to obtain your position and carry out compass checks.

Ocean sailing is, however, about more than just using a sextant. Another important aspect of ocean sailing is worldwide meteorology, passage planning and communications at sea.

Publications that assist the ocean navigator such as routeing charts and other pilot books will be covered.

This course is suitable for those who hold a theory certificate to the level of Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore or equivalent.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR RYA YACHTMASTER OCEAN THEORY COURSE

Your RYA-approved Online Yachtmaster Ocean theory course is provided by Navathome, a RYA Recognised Training Centre specialising in online training, and consists of detailed, animated lessons that are heavily image-based. The lessons are all online and can be accessed from your PC or Mac.

Click here for a  Free Trial

Each section is followed by a set of questions which can be answered quickly and easily online. Once you submit your answer, you’ll be provided with instant feedback and will gain access to a detailed answer page. Some of your answers will then be forwarded on to your delegated instructor, who can provide you with help and support if necessary.

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

Your Ocean Yachtmaster theory course costs  £275 and includes the RYA pack so wherever you are in the world, you’ll receive material that’s completely tailored to your needs.

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

Where ever you purchase your course, as with all courses, the quality will of the course be greatly influenced by the quality of the Instructor. By clicking the add to cart button below and only available from this web site, your course Instructor will be Peter. Peter is a very experienced RYA Ocean Yachtmaster Instructor with over 25 years’ experience in providing RYA tuition to students of all abilities.

Peter has extensively sailed the Atlantic, Caribbean, Irish sea, English Channel, North Sea, Inland waterways of Holland, Aegean and the Mediterranean and whilst Peter will happily assist the highly experienced Seafarer in obtaining top end qualifications, Peter particularly enjoys helping beginners to achieve their own personal goals.

There is an six-month initial access period. 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.

Invigilated assessments If you wish to claim exemption to the written element of the Ocean Yachtmaster practical oral exam, the RYA now require the end of course theory assessment to be invigilated at an approved RYA Training centre (of which we are one) or the candidate can take an extra paper during the oral examination.

Click here further information about Online courses

This is a course in astro-navigation and worldwide meteorology which also reveals the mysteries of the sextant. It assumes a knowledge of all subjects covered in the other shorebased courses.

1. The earth and the celestial sphere

Definition of observer’s zenith and position of a heavenly body in terms of latitude, longitude, GHA and declination Right angle relationships, latitude and co-lat, declination and polar distance Relationship between GHA, longitude and LHA Tabulation of declination in nautical almanac Rate of increase of hour angle with time

2. The PZX triangle

The tabulated components of the triangle, LHA, co-lat and polar distance The calculable components, zenith distance and azimuth Relationship between zenith distance and altitude Introduction to the tabular method of solution in the Air Navigation Tables and the basic sight form The use of calculators for the solution of the PZX triangle

3. The sextant

Practical guide to the use and care of a sextant at sea Conversion of sextant altitude to true altitude Application of dip, index error and refraction Correction of side error, perpendicularity, index error and collimation error

4. Measurement of time

Definition of, and relationship between, UT, LMT, standard time and zone time Rating of chronometers and watches

5. Meridian altitudes

Forecasting time of meridian altitude Reduction of meridian altitude sights

6. Sun, star and other sights

Reduction and plotting of sun sights using Air Navigation Tables Awareness of use of calculator for sight reduction The plotting of sun-run-sun meridian altitude Awareness of the reduction and plotting of sights obtained from stars, moon and planets

7. Compass checking

Use of amplitude and azimuth tables systems and/or calculator

8. Satellite Navigation Systems

Principles and limitations of use of all systems

9. Great circle sailing

Comparison of rhumb lines and great circles Vertices and composite tracks The computation of a series of rhumb lines approximating to a great circle by use of gnomonic and Mercator projections

10. Meteorology

General pressure distribution and prevailing winds over the oceans of the world Tropical revolving storms, seasonal occurrence and forecasting by observation

11. Passage planning

Publications available to assist with planning of long passages (routeing charts, ocean passages of the world and other publications) Preparation for ocean passage including survival equipment, victualling, water and fuel management, chafe protection, spares and maintenance

12. Passage making

Navigational routine Watchkeeping Crew management

13. Communications

Satellite and terrestrial systems Weather information Pack Shipping details Packs will be shipped for free to most destinations within 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 destinations not shown above, will incur the below indicated additional charge:

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• Yachtmaster Ocean

The Yachtmaster Ocean certificate is the highest qualification available in the RYA scheme.

• Become a Yachtmaster
• Career paths

The Yachtmaster Ocean is the highest qualification awarded by the RYA. Recognised worldwide, the Yachtmaster Ocean certificate proves you have the knowledge, experience, and confidence to skipper a yacht across an ocean.

What does the Yachtmaster Ocean qualify me to do?

The Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence allows the holder to skipper a yacht on an Ocean passage of any length.

The RYA has a structured route from beginner to Yachtmaster Ocean. You can choose sail or Power .

Whether you sail or enjoy powerboats, there is a route to Yachtmaster Ocean. To do the Yachtmaster Ocean, it’s fair to say that most people will choose the sailing route. This is because very few motorboats under 60 meters can cross an ocean. Smaller motorboats have a limited fuel range.

Become a professional skipper.

After passing the Yachtmaster Ocean exam, you have the opportunity to become a professional skipper. You can achieve this by applying for commercial endorsement.

It it worth pointing out at this stage, if you are considering working as a professional skipper then you will need to complete a medical, either the ENG1 or ML5 . The medical confirms you are fit to work at sea.

To apply for Commercial Endorsement you would have completed additional safety training courses, including STCW Basic Safety Training , plus an online Professional Practices and Responsibilities (PPR) course, and passed a medical.

Once you have completed these additional safety qualifications, you can apply for commercial endorsement and start a career as a professional skipper.

Superyacht crew

To become a Chief Mate on a Superyacht, Deckhands, Bosuns, and Officers must first obtain their Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate.

Requirements for RYA Yachtmaster Ocean

To sit the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Oral exam, candidates will be experienced sailors with a good depth of knowledge of sailing offshore, and on extended passages.

The requirements for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean exam are as follows:

1. Hold the Yachtmaster Offshore certificate of competence.

2. Complete a 600-mile offshore passage acting in a position of responsibility (skipper or watch leader).

3. Have completed a series of celestial sights fixing your position at sea, including a sun run meridian altitude sight and a compass check carried out using a bearing of the sun, moon, or stars.

4. Be a competent offshore/Ocean skipper with good offshore experience.

5. Have extensive knowledge of Ocean weather patterns and conditions that can affect a trip across an ocean.

Once you have met these prerequisites, you can sit for the Yachtmaster Ocean Oral exam. You can sit the  Yachtmaster Ocean Oral exam

The difference between Yachtmaster Offshore and Ocean

Yachtmaster Offshore and Yachtmaster Ocean differ in Astro navigation, using the sun and stars to determine position. If you were sailing across an ocean and all electronic equipment were to fail, then having the knowledge to fix your position using a sextant would prove invaluable.

The Yachtmaster Offshore allows you to take a yacht on a journey no more than 150 miles from harbour. On the other hand, the Yachtmaster Ocean has no restrictions or limitations.

How do I become a Yachtmaster Ocean?

There are two options; the first is if you have your own boat. By having your own yacht, you can learn skills at your own pace with friends and family. You may want some basic training to get you going in the right direction, then build miles and experience. This option is cheaper if you don’t count the yacht’s cost, and you can learn at your own speed.

The drawback is that achieving Yachtmaster Ocean is finding the balance between training, work, friends, and family can be tricky. Furthermore, convincing friends to go sailing in the depths of winter means achieving your goal can take years.

The second option is joining a structured training programme. You can complete all the training at once and not have the hassle of owning your own yacht. A lot of people combine the Yachtmaster Ocean with travel, completing their training somewhere warm and sunny.

Our Yachtmaster Ocean course takes you from a novice sailor to Yachtmaster Ocean in 16 weeks. The training programme includes all the skills, qualifications, and experience you need to become an Ocean Master.

The course is for everyone, regardless of age or experience. It is suitable for beginners and experienced sailors who don’t have any formal qualifications. Whatever your sailing experience.

All you need in one course

Yachtmaster ocean course.

We take you from beginner to Yachtmaster Ocean in one 16-week training course.

Already have Yachtmaster Offshore

Yachtmaster ocean theory and passage.

If you hold the Yachtmaster Offshore qualification and want Ocean, then choose this option.

• Yachtmaster Ocean
• Recreational

Yachtmaster Ocean Qualifications

This certificate is a qualification that indicates that the holder has sufficient knowledge of celestial navigation to navigate a 24-metre vessel globally using a sextant and to plan, undertake and manage an ocean passage together with a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved with regards to routing and meteorology. The minimum age to obtain this certification is 18.

What are the entry level requirements?

To gain the IYT Yachtmaster Ocean certificate, candidates must first hold the IYT Yachtmaster Offshore certificate.

What does the Yachtmaster ocean theory course consist of?

The course consists of six days of astronavigation and worldwide meteorology. A thorough knowledge of all subjects covered in the IYT Yachtmaster Offshore course is assumed. There will be a final written examination on the last day of the course.

It has come to our attention that it has not been made perfectly clear to all IYT Worldwide yachtmaster candidates that this certification is for recreational use only and may never be upgraded to a professional certificate. Therefore, we require all candidates taking a recreational IYT Worldwide Yachtmaster Coastal, Offshore or Ocean course to complete an acknowledgement prior to taking the course.

Course Outline

• The Earth and the celestial sphere
• The PZX triangle
• The sextant
• Measurement of time
• Meridian altitudes
• Planet sights
• Starsight planning
• The pole star
• Moon sights
• Compass checking
• Satellite navigation systems
• Great circle sailing
• Meteorology
• Passage planning

The IYT Yachtmaster Ocean certificate is a qualification that indicates that the holder has sufficient knowledge of celestial navigation to navigate globally using a sextant and to plan, undertake and manage an ocean passage together with a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved with regards to routing and meteorology.

Certificate Limitations:

• Command of a vessel up to 24 meters in length
• all oceans / anywhere in the world
• not for commercial use

Note: Yachtmaster Ocean is a recreational course that can be taught in any language BUT cannot be upgraded to the professional Master of Yachts certificate.

How Do I Apply for Enrollment?

Candidates may apply to any of the participating IYT Partner Schools worldwide who offer this course.

As you advance and become more proficient as crew or skipper you take on bigger challenges that require proper training to ensure the safety of your family and friends. The bigger the boat or length of adventure the more training you require.

Most of us prefer to spend our time on the water and not in a classroom. To facilitate this, IYT has a series of E-learning courses available for the theoretical part of sail and powerboat training.

• Take one of our online (Elearning) courses for your next level of training.
• Plan your practical training at one of our many schools worldwide to earn your final qualification.
• Book in advance with your school as class sizes and availability may be limited.
• Review the IYT course progression details to learn about professional level courses.
• Spend time on the water and properly log your seatime.

The Boating Lifestyle is one of the most rewarding pursuits available. There is something physically and emotionally invigorating when you are offshore. To enjoy the experience fully you need the proper training & skills to be safe, prepared and command a vessel.

Recreational Student Information

Benefits of an iyt certification.

IYT is the largest provider of crew and skipper certificates for the recreational yachting industry in the world. Learn more about the benefits of an IYT Certificate.

Certificate Renewal

For many IYT certificates, there is the need to re-qualify for your certificate every 3 to 5 years. This ensures that our certifications are meeting international standards.

IYT Yachting Passport

The IYT Passport is recognized in over 40 countries around the world and offers you an opportunity to study and train worldwide.

• Course Progression

A beginner at sailing or operating a powerboat should be familiar with the training path that is available from IYT. Many recreational boaters progress to become crew on superyachts.

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Coastal / Offshore

RYA Yachtmaster

Online Theory Course

A challenging course which stretches you but backed up with excellent coaching and instructor support.

Advanced training for more experienced skippers to navigate safely on coastal and offshore passages

The RYA Yachtmaster  online 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.

• Assumed knowledge To Day Skipper theory level.
• Minimum duration A minimum of 40 hours of course study time is specified by the RYA, plus time for exercises and exams.
• Ability after course Theory knowledge to skipper a vessel on coastal and offshore passages by day and night.  

Simply click below to try a free lesson.

Pilotage for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

• 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

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.

Optional Extras

Plotter and divider You’ll need a course plotter and chart-dividers to complete the chartwork exercises - if you don’t already have these you can purchase a top quality set from us for £28 when you place your order.

Delivery UK delivery is free.  European delivery is £20, outside Europe delivery is £40.

You can start studying immediately as many of the lessons don’t rely on the printed support materials.

This course is accessed online with no additional software required.

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.

Call us for advice on 0238 218 2604

Course reviews.

Laura Anderson

Very enjoyable and informative

Impressively prompt and thorough feedback on all queries, tests, mock and real exams. Very high standards and you feel you have earned the Yachtmaster certificate.

Ciaran McIntyre

Comprehensive and well delivered

Excellent course materials and high quality delivery. Very responsive and excellent instructor feedback

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.

Oliver Fleming

Well put together course.

I found the Yachtmaster theory course to be really well structured and covered all of the syllabus in great detail. I was impressed by how well the course managed to tackle teaching relatively complex skills in a logical and easy to understand way.

Combined - RYA Day Skipper & Yachtmaster to fast track your theory learning

+ 1 954 554 5765 - [email protected]

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Welcome to TheOceanAcademy

Superior RYA Yacht Crew Training in South Florida

The Ocean Academy is a fully accredited and recognized Training Center for the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).  We offer superior Theory and Practical Yacht Crew Training 

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore/Coastal (Power)

• We are the ONLY school in Fort Lauderdale to independently offer accredited Theory and Practical training for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and Coastal.  This course includes one week of theory training in chart-work, navigation rules, meteorology, tidal height calculations, aids to navigation, voyage planning and more.  Week two includes practical training on our 40' (12m) training vessel, followed by the RYA Practical Examination. The Duration for this course is 6 days, with a total of 40+ hours of direct contact.  Included in your tuition is the RYA Student Pack which includes course notes, Training Almanac and Training Charts.  Plotting tools are not included, but our Yachtmaster FAQ will help you understand the tools that are needed.  We keep our student/instructor ratio to 4:1 maximum for the best training experience.  Please contact Steve from the contact information below for a consult and information on booking your course.

RYA Power Boat Level 2

• The Ocean Academy is fully accredited to offer the RYA Power Boat Level 2 Course (PBL2).  We offer this course in a two-day theory and Practical course, or a three day evening class for those crew members who are working on-board during the day.  The course is offered on our modern and well equipped 23' (7m) center-console training vessel, with electronic chart plotter, DSC equipped VHF radio and all the latest safety equipment.  Included in the tuition is an online voucher for the Start Boating course notes booklet.  We keep our student/instructor ratio to 3:1 for the best training experience.  Please contact Steve from the contact details below for a consult and infomation on booking your course.

TheOceanAcademy is your best resource for RYA Training In Fort Lauderdale, including custom yacht crew training, PBL2 and RYA Yachtmaster Offshore(Power) instruction

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RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Yachtmaster Offshore Prep & Exam

Preparation course overview.

The RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Yachtmaster Offshore Preparation course enables those who hold the required prerequisite experience to sit the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore exam to fine tune their existing skills prior to sitting the practical exam.

About the course

The preparation course is run over 5 days and designed to assess your level of competency against the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore exam syllabus found in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158/15) and is intended to fine tune your existing skills and polish any areas of weakness prior to the exam. The subsequent exam is then run over two days, following the preparation course.

Prior the prep course, we advise that you read the exam syllabus and give yourself an honest appraisal of your strengths and weaknesses. Try to address any shortfalls beforehand and then during the preparation course be open with your instructor about your abilities and what you need to work on in the run up to your exam.

During the prep course your instructor will frequently update you on your progress and ability and recommend which exam you should aim for – whether Coastal or Offshore.

The syllabus is taught in a ratio of (4:1) students to instructor.

Prerequisites

Rya yachtmaster coastal exam (sail).

Candidates must be aged 17 or over and require;

• A Radio Operators Qualification – A GMDSS Short Range Certificate (SRC) or higher grade of marine radio certificate
• A valid first aid certificate
• Seatime – 800 miles logged within 10 years prior to examination, 30 days living on board, two days as skipper and 12 night hours.

For holders of the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical course completion certificate, the seatime requirement is reduced to 400 miles, 2 days living on board, 12 night hours, two days as skipper.

Half of the qualifying seatime must have been gained in tidal waters. For sizes of vessel please refer to page 73 in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158/15).

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Exam (Sail)

Candidates must be aged 18 or over and require;

• Seatime – 50 days, 2,500 miles, including at least five passages over 60 miles, acting as skipper for at least two of these passages and including two which have involved overnight passages. Five days’ experience as skipper.

At least half of the qualifying seatime must have been accrued in tidal waters. For sizes of vessel please refer to page 73 in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158/15).

Full details and definitions on qualifying passages can be found here .

Exam overviews

The exam will include an assessment of your skippering skills, boat handling, general seamanship, navigation, safety awareness and knowledge of the IRPCS (collision regulations), meteorology and signals. You will be set tasks to demonstrate your ability and may also be asked questions on any part of the syllabus for all practical and shorebased courses up to Yachtmaster Coastal level.

The exam will include an assessment of your skippering skills, boat handling, general seamanship, navigation, safety awareness and knowledge of the IRPCS, meteorology and signals, with particular emphasis on command skills, boat handling under sail and power in confined spaces, plus navigation and pilotage techniques in daylight, at night and in reduced visibility. Adverse weather conditions and coping with emergencies are also covered.

The examiner will set tasks to enable you to demonstrate your ability as skipper and may also ask questions on any part of the syllabus for all practical and shorebased courses up to RYA Yachtmaster Offshore.

Exam Duration 

The exam will take around 8-12 hours per candidate candidate. No more than two candidates can be examined in 24 hours. Whilst one candidate is being examined the remaining candidates will act as crew.

Qualifications

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Certification of Competence.

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence.

Dates and pricing

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RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor – All You Need To Know

What is the rya coastal skipper practical motor.

The goal of the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor course is to teach the skills and techniques required to skipper a motor cruiser 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 .

Or if you look here if you are looking for an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail .

What Does the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor 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 Motor course gives you the confidence to skipper a motor cruiser 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 Motor certificate for their larger sizes of vessels or for chartering in more complex waters.

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

Who Can Do an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor?

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

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

If you have boating experience but not skippering experience, then you will want to take the RYA Day Skipper Practical Motor course. You can read more about that here.

Can You Go Straight to the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor course?

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

It should be noted however, that on the RYA Day Skipper Practical Motor 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 Motor to consolidate your knowledge of boat handling and skippering techniques.

How Long Does an RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor take?

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor 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 Motor course in varying levels of detail.

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

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

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

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

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

The highlight of the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor course will see you take on a 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 will not be forgotten about as you will be put through more advanced learnings both at sea and in close quarters. 

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 with.

Where Should I Do My RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor 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 cruise in, that way, you can gain learnings and experiences that are uncommon to you.

It is also important to know where you might be cruising. Ideally, you want to be cruising 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 Motor course completion certification.

What Comes After RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Motor

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 Motor or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor.

Releated Posts

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Sail – All You Need To Know

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

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• Certificates of Competence

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Exam

Full details of the exam syllabus and requirements are shown in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158), which is available from the RYA webshop.

The exam consists of an oral and written test.

The candidate must provide the examiner with the following information 48 hours prior to the exam:

• A narrative account of the planning and execution of the qualifying passage providing all relevant details.
• Navigational records, completed on board a yacht on passage, out of sight of land showing that the candidate has navigated the yacht without the use of electronic navigational aids. The records must include as a minimum, planning, reduction and plotting of a sun run meridian altitude sight and a compass check carried out using the bearing of the sun, moon, a star or planet.

During the oral test the candidate will be required to answer questions on all aspects of ocean passage making in a yacht, including passage planning, navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management and yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs.

The written exam will include questions on sights and sight reduction and worldwide meteorology.

Candidates who hold the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Course Completion Certificate (final exam must have been invigilated at an RYA RTC), or a MCA issued full STCW Certificate of Competence as a Deck Officer (Unlimited) will be exempt from the written examination.

Before you book your exam please check that you:

• have completed the required mileage and experience as skipper
• have read the syllabus in RYA Logbook (G158)
• have read and comply with the pre-requisites above.

If you need your Certificate of Competence in order to work on board a commercial craft subject the MCA's codes of practice, you will need to get it commercially endorsed - see 'Related articles'.

Please note: Only those who hold the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence are eligible to receive the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence on passing the oral exam. Those holding OOW (Yacht 3000gt) will receive a pass confirmation certificate.

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean exam pre-requisites

5-Months Fast Track to RYA Yachtmaster Ocean C.O.C

A robust theory and practical programme, including a 2-month mileage trip..

The Odyssey is a comprehensive 5-month programme that takes candidates from an entry-level Competent Crew status all the way to Yachtmaster Ocean – 200-ton unlimited commercial license. 

Structured to suit novices and experienced sailors alike, the first 5 weeks of the programme is a foundation phase comprising alternating weeks of shore-based theory and a week of practical sailing. 

The Foundation Phase consists of RYA Competent Crew, RYA Day Skipper Theory, RYA Day Skipper Practical, RYA Yachtmaster Theory, RYA Yachtmaster Practical and RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory, RYA Short Range Radio Certificate and Power Boat Level II.

This is followed by preparation and an approximately 2-month mileage trip either to Rio (in January) or Madagascar (in June), returning to Cape Town.

The Odyssey not only gives candidates sufficient confidence and experience to sit the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore assessment, and the RYA Ocean Oral exam, it also offers incredible offshore sailing and is a truly life-changing experience.

Please note: STCW courses are not included in our course fees and accommodation during theory week is for your own cost.

Contact us about 5-Months Fast Track to RYA Yachtmaster Ocean C.O.C

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ATLANTIC OCEAN ODYSSEY

Leg 1: ROUTE: CAPE TOWN – ST HELENA – RIO East to West Crossing – inspired by the Clipper ship trade routes, the Adventure routing will follow the trade winds making for stunning downwind sailing: sunny skies, warm breezes and big spinnakers.

Leg 2: RIO – TRISTAN DA CUNHA – CAPE TOWN. West to East Crossing – inspired by the Whitbread/Volvo Ocean race which sails around the bottom of the South Atlantic High (renowned as a 24 hour record breaking route). This route makes for challenging but fast and exhilarating sailing. Not for the fainthearted.

INDIAN OCEAN ODYSSEY

The Indian Ocean Odyssey adventure consist of 2 routes. The Cape Town to Madagascar route explores the Southern African East Coast, famous for its challenging sailing conditions. On the return route you’ll be enjoying the trade winds of the Mozambique Channel, and then routing back to Cape Town along the Wild Coast.

Leg 1: CAPE TOWN – RICHARDS BAY – NOSEY BE, MADAGASCAR Leg 2: NOSEY BE, MADAGASCAR – BASSAS DAS INDIA – RICHARDS BAY – CAPE TOWN

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Career Training

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competency is one of the most prestigious and sought-after qualifications in the sailing industry. It is an essential certification for individuals looking to pursue a career in sailing and take on leading positions such as captain. The 5-month fast track program to Yachtmaster Ocean C.O.C offered by 2 Oceans Maritime Academy provides aspiring sailors with the perfect opportunity to achieve their goals.

The Odyssey adventure is a comprehensive 5-month program that takes candidates from entry-level Competent Crew status to Yachtmaster Ocean. The program is structured to cater to both novices and experienced sailors and is designed to provide a strong foundation of knowledge and practical experience. The first 5 weeks of the program is a foundation phase that consists of alternating weeks of shore-based theory and practical sailing. This phase covers RYA Competent Crew, RYA Day Skipper Theory, RYA Day Skipper Practical, RYA Yachtmaster Theory, RYA Yachtmaster Practical and RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory.

After the foundation phase, candidates embark on an approximately 2-month mileage trip either to Rio or Madagascar, returning to Cape Town. This adventure not only provides candidates with the confidence and experience to sit the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore assessment and the RYA Ocean Oral exam, but also offers an incredible offshore sailing experience that is life-changing.

Hout Bay Yacht Club Marina Harbour Road, Hout Bay Cape Town, South Africa, 7806

+27  (82) 854-9789 [email protected] All images on this site are of our boats and students while training

• RYA Training
• RYA Interactive
• Special Courses
• RYA courses

RYA Training diagram flow

«Click» on any of the courses below to get full information on syllabusses and requirements ■

«start yachting» [practical]

A short introduction to sailing for complete beginners

By the end of the course you will have experienced steering a yacht, sail handling, ropework and be aware of safety on board. Holders of the Start Yachting certificate can go on to complete the Competence Crew course in a reduced time of three days or two weekends ■

► Pre-course experience

► Assumed knowledge

► Minimum duration

    two days

► Minimum age

► Course content

    The yacht, ropework, underway,

    rules of the road, man overboard recovery,

    clothing and equipment, Emergency

    equipment and precautions, meteorology;

► Ability after the course

    Basic knowledge of yachting.

«essential navigation & seamanship» [shorebased]

The course has been available in the classroom for a few years, but now it is possible to take it online too through our RYA Interactive e-learning site . However you decide to take the course, it offers a great introduction to navigation and safety awareness for new, inexperienced or rusty skippers and crew. This course is for anyone interested in sailing, motor boating, sea angling or diving, and works well in complementing our on-the-water training, such as the Powerboat Level 2, Start Yachting and Helmsman courses. This is a highly informative course with lots of opportunities for you to put your new found knowledge into practice. If you decide to take the course online , you will find many interactive exercises to help reinforce the information and lots of chances to try out what you’ve learned. In the classroom , the course is taught over 16 hours with exercises to complete along the way. It can be covered as a series of short sessions or over two full days. You will receive a course pack which includes a chart, plotter, dividers, course handbook, exercises and an electronic chart plotter CD ■

course topics include

► Charts and publications; ► Safety; ► Engine checks; ► Buoyage; ► Tidal awareness; ► Visual and electronic navigation; ► Pilotage; ► Rules of the road; ► Anchoring; ► Weather forecasts; ► Passage planning;

«competent crew» [practical]

This course is for beginners and those who would like to become active crew members rather than just passengers

Experience living on board and really get to know the boat. Virtually all the course is hands on. You are the crew - without you the sails won’t go up and the boat won’t be steered. By the end of the course you should be able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout, row a dinghy and assist in all the day to day duties on board. You should also have visited some interesting places and had an enjoyable holiday ■

    5 days. Often run over 3 weekends or 3 days

    plus a weekend. If you hav done the Start

    Yachting course, this course can be

    completed in 3 or 4 days;

    Knowledge of sea terms and parts of a boat,

    her rigging and sails, sail handling, ropework,

    fire precautions and fighting, personal safety

    equipment, man overboard, emergency

    equipment, meteorology, seasickness,

    helmsmanship, general duties, manners

    and customs, rules of the road, dinghies;

    Able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout,

    row a dinghy and assist in all the day to day

    routines.

«day skipper» [shorebased]

This course covers the prescribed syllabus for the award of the RYA Day Skipper shorebased certificate

The Day Skipper Course is designed primarily for: • Students who are new to sailing; • Students with dinghy or a little crewing experience; • Boatowners who have yet to make extended passages at sea; Course material includes charts , Admiralty and RYA publications, personal tuition, RYA Day Skipper shorebased assessment and certificate ■

    We assume no previous knowledge and

    each opic is fully explained and illustrated

    as it is introduced.;

    Course can be completed in 40 hours,

    at 8 hours it can be completed in 5 days;

    Beginning with simple chartwork and nautical

    erminology, the course progresses through to

    tidal predictions, buoyage recognition,

    position fixing (including GPS), steering

    and sailing rules, weather patterns, and

    navigation in fog and at night. The emphasis

    throughout the course is upon personal

    safety, including the use of man- overboard

    equipment, lifejackets, flares, HF and GMDSS;

►  Ability after the course

    As the course draws to a conclusion, all these

    subjects are combined in a demonstration of

    practical passage planning, giving sufficient

    knowledge for conducting your own coastal

    passage or similar passage.

«day skipper» [practical]

Our RYA Day Skipper training will guide you through preparation for sea, deck work, navigation, pilotage, and meteorology. Learn the rules of the road, maintenance and repair work, engines, and how to cope in emergency situations. The exciting part comes when you start learning how to handle the yacht, both under sail and under power. Passage making and night cruising are highlights of the RYA Day Skipper course ■

    5 days sea time, 100 miles, 4 night hours;

   Navigation to day Skipper Shorebased

    and basic sailing ability;

    5 days ;

    16 years;

    Basic Pilotage, boat handling,

    watch organisation;

    Skipper a small yacht

    in familiar waters by day.

«coastal skipper & yachtmaster® offshore» [shorebased]

This course covers the prescribed syllabus for the award of the RYA | MCA Yachtmaster® Coastal | Yachtmaster® shorebased certificate

The format of the course is such that the introductory modules act as a refresher on the basic concepts of navigation. However, it is too brief to be of value to the complete beginner and is intended to assist those whose knowledge has become a bit rusty. Course material includes: • charts • Admiralty and RYA publications  • personal tuition • RYA/MCA Coastal Skipper | Yachtmaster® Offshore shorebased assessment and certificate ■

    People who have previously complete

    a Day Skipper theory course;

    People who have sufficient knowledge

    to be able to plot EPs, CTS, calculate

    secondary port tidal heights and

    interpolate tidal streams;

    Courses takes 40-45 hours of study ;

    Navigational techniques are refined

    and expanded upon and whilst chartwork

    (including electronic aids) and tidal

    factors are studied to an advanced level,

    the emphasis is upon the practical

    knowledge required to become a skilled

    offshore skipper. Safety is stressed

    throughout with emphasis on collision

    regulations, interpreting weather forecasts,

    boat handling and coping with emergencies,

    concludes the course at an internationally

    recognised level of competence.

«coastal skipper» [practical]

Advanced skippering techniques for yachtsmen and women with considerable knowledge of sailing and navigation,

wanting to undertake coastal passages by day and night

Like the Day Skipper course, this course consists of skippered passages in a variety of situations . Each trainee will skipper more challenging passages and learn more about passage planning, pilotage by day and night, boat handling, safety and emergency situations. It is a satisfying but intensive week, with candidates often working towards a Certificate of Competence.

Most centres will expect you to complete the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster® Offshore shorebased course beforehand as there is insufficient time to teach you theory during the week. Coastal Skippers should be able to undertake more difficult passages by day and night and handle the yacht in more demanding conditions. By the end of the course you should have the knowledge, if not the experience, to become a Yachtmaster® . The course can be taken in tidal or non-tidal waters and your certificate will be endorsed accordingly ■

    15 days, 2 days as skipper,

    300 miles, 8 night hours;

    Boat handling to the standard of Day Skipper

    and navigation to shorebased Coastal;

► Minimum duration | age

    5 days | 17 years;

    Passage planning, Preparation for sea,

    Pilotage, Passage making and ability as

    skipper, Yacht handling under power,

    Yacht handling under sail, Adverse weather

    conditions, Emergency situations;

    Able to skipper a yacht on coastal

    passages by day and night.

«yachtmaster® ocean» [shorebased]

This course covers the prescribed syllabus for the award of the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster® Ocean shorebased certificate

When out of sight of land for prolonged periods we can no longer depend on the comforting presence of traditional+ navigational marks, and so we have to rely on the sun, moon and stars as well as electronic aids to find our position and maintain our intended ocean route. Whilst looking at both these aspects of navigation this course concentrates on astronavigation by observation of all the celestial bodies  ■

    No advanced mathematics is involved

    nor is the possession of a sextant required.

    Assuming a prior knowledge of coastal

    navigation, the recognition of the stars

    and navigational planets is explained

    together with the use of a sextant;

    Course can be completed in as little

    as four weeks. On average, at 4 hours

    a week it could take 5 - 6 months

    to complete. Full tutor support

    is provided for 12 months;

    Electronic instrumentation, now in everyday

    use, is a vital part of the course. Meteorology

    and climatology, and the planning of ocean

    passages, complete the syllabus.

    Course material includes: • extracts from the

    Nautical Almanac • practice astronomical

    tables • personal tuition (including assessment

    papers) • RYA/MCA Yachtmaster® Ocean

    shorebased assessment and certificate.

«RYA yachtmaster® coastal» [certificate of competence]

The Yachtmaster® Coastal has the knowledge needed to skipper a yacht on coastal cruises but does not necessarily

have the experience needed to undertake longer passages

Full details of the exam requirements |  syllabus are shown in the RYA’s Sail Cruising Logbook (code G15) and the Motor Cruising Logbook (code G18), both available from the RYA webshop. Yachtmaster® Coastal practical exams can be taken under sail or power and your certificate will be endorsed accordingly;

The candidate or a training centre provides the boat and the RYA provides an examiner . The exam will include: • assessment of your skippering  skills • boat handling • navigation • general seamanship • safety awareness and knowledge of the IRPCS (collision regulations) • meteorology and signals;

Candidates will be set tasks to demonstrate their ability and may also be asked questions on any part of the syllabus for all practical and shore-based courses up to Yachtmaster® Coastal level ■

exam pre-requisites

► Minimum seatime

    30 days, 2 days as skipper, 800 miles,

    12 night hours (if you hold the Coastal

    Skipper course certificate this is reduced

    to 20 days, 2 days as skipper, 400 miles,

    12 night hours). Half the qualifying sea

    time must be conducted in tidal waters;

► Form of exam

    Practical;

► Certification required

    A restricted (VHF only) Radio Operators

    Certificate or a GMDSS Short Range

    Certificate or higher grade of marine

    radio certificate. A valid first aid certificate

    (first aid qualifications held by Police,

    Fire and Armed Services are acceptable).

    All candidates are required to hold

    a first aid certificate . Acceptable certificates

    include the RYA’s First Aid Certificate,

    First Aid at Work, First Aid at Sea,

    or any other certificate issued on completion

    of a course which is a minimum of one day’s

    duration, recognised by the Health and Safety

    Executive and includes the treatment of

    ypothermia, cold shock and drowning;

► Minimum exam duration

    6-10 hours for 1 candidate,

    8-14 hours for 2 candidates;

    17 years.

«RYA yachtmaster® offshore» [certificate of competence]

The Yachtmaster® Offshore is competent

to skipper a cruising yacht on any passage during which the yacht is no more than 150 miles from Harbour  

Full details of the exam requirements |  syllabus are shown in the RYA’s Sail and Motor Cruising Logbook (code G158), available from the RYA webshop. Yachtmaster® Offshore practical exams can be taken under sail or power and your certificate will be endorsed accordingly. There is no formal training course leading up to the exam, but those who have not previously taken RYA courses often find it useful to book themselves in for some informal training at an RYA centre prior to their exam. This training can be tailor-made to your specific needs and helps to fill any gaps in your knowledge that may become apparent ■

    50 days, 2,500 miles including at least

    5 passages over 60 miles measured along

    the rhumb line from the port of departure

    to the destination, acting as skipper for

    at least two of these passages and including

    two which have involved overnight passages.

    5 days experience as skipper. At least half

    this mileage and passages must be in tidal

    waters. All qualifying seatime must be

    within 10 years prior to the exam;

    8-12 hours for 1 candidate,

    10-18 hours for 2 candidates.

    No more than two candidates can be

    examined in 24 hours and no more

    than four candidates can be examined

    in one 2 day session;

    18 years.

«RYA yachtmaster® ocean» [oral exam]

A person holding a Yachtmaster® Ocean qualification is experienced

and competent to skipper a yacht on passages of any length in all parts of the world  

The Yachtmaster®Ocean exam is an oral and written test of your knowledge of ocean passage making including planning, navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management, yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs. You will also be questioned on your sights taken at sea during an ocean passage  ■

    Ocean passage as skipper or mate of watch.

    The candidate was fully involved in the

    planning  of the passage, including selection of

    the route,  the navigational plan, checking the

    material  condition of the yacht and her

    equipment,  storing spare gear, water and

    victuals and  organising the watch-keeping

    routine;  During the passage a minimum

    non-stop  distance of 600 miles must have

    been run by  the log, the yacht must have

    been at sea  continuously for at least 96 hours

    and the yacht  must have been more than

    50 miles from land  or charted objects while

    sailing a distance of at  least 200 miles.

    All qualifying seatime must be  within 10 years

    prior to the exam;

    Oral and written assessment of sights

    take at sea. If you hold the Yachtmaster®

    Ocean shorebased certificate you are exempt

    from the written assessment;

    A GMDSS Short Range Certificate (SRC)

    or higher grade of marine radio certificate.

    A valid first aid certificate  (first aid

    qualifications  held by Police,  Fire and Armed

    Services are  acceptable).  All candidates are

    required to hold  a first aid certificate .

    Acceptable certificates  include the RYA’s First

    Aid Certificate,  First Aid at Work, First Aid

    at Sea,  or any other certificate issued on

    completion  of a course which is a minimum

    of one day’s  duration, recognised by

    the Health and Safety  Executive and includes

    the treatment of  ypothermia, cold shock and

    drowning;

    Approximately 1.5 hours;

► Minimum age  18 years.

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Yachtmaster Ocean Course

RYA OCEAN YACHTMASTER - THEORY COURSE

RYA Ocean Yachtmaster - Theory Course

The Yachtmaster Ocean™ qualification is the highest qualification in British recreational boating. It accredits professional practice on boats up to 200 GT and with no distance limit, having international recognition .

This course is for students who aspire offshore cruising.

To obtain the title you must previously have the Yachtmaster Offshore certificate and accredit a period of embarcation where you have done the Passage Planning , the check of elements on board and safety in navigation. In addition to a navigation of 600 miles during 4 continuous voyages.

In the practical test the candidate is required to have certain knowledge on: meteorology, navigation, routing, crew command responsibility, maintenance and basic repairs.

The course is approved by the Royal Yachting Association

What does the course include?

PREREQUIREMENTS : RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence and have completed a 600+ mile ocean crossing. 

DURATION : The course has a duration of 40 hours.

Celestial sphere

Practical guide to the use and care of the sextant at sea., high altitude meridians, sun, stars and other stars, planificación del paso por el océano.

If you need more information about the RYA Ocean Yachtmaster course contact us here .

Ocean Yachtmaster - RYA Theory Course

• 40h of face-to-face classes
• Theory Pack
• Intensive mode available
• Official Certificate issued by the RYA

FORM OF THE EXAM

Oral and written evaluation of the ocean voyage. If you are in possession of the Yachtmaster Ocean shorebased certificate you will be exempt from the written exam.

Oral Examination

For the oral examination the candidate must provide the examiner with the following information 48 hours prior to the examination:

• A narrative account of the planning and execution of the qualifying passage providing all relevant details.
• Sailing logs, completed on board a yacht in transit, out of sight of land, showing that the candidate has sailed the yacht without the use of electronic aids to navigation. The logs should include, at a minimum, the planning, reduction and plotting of a solar operating meridian altitude view and a compass check performed using the heading of the sun, moon, a star or a planet.

Written Examination

The written examination will include questions on sight and sight reduction and world meteorology.

• If you are in possession of the Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased RYA/MCA Certificate of Completion, or a full STCW Certificate of Competency issued by the MCA as a deck officer (unlimited) you will be exempt from the written exam.
• Before booking your exam check that:
• You have completed the required mileage and skipper experience.
• You have read the syllabus in the RYA Logbook.
• You have read and meet the above prerequisites.
• If you need your Certificate of Competency to work aboard a commercial vessel subject to MCA codes of practice, you must obtain the Commercial Endorsement.
• Please note: Only those who hold the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competency are eligible to receive the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competency upon passing the oral exam. OOW (Yacht 3000gt) holders will receive a pass confirmation certificate.

For the first time Rosatom Fuel Division supplied fresh nuclear fuel to the world’s only floating nuclear cogeneration plant in the Arctic

The fuel was supplied to the northernmost town of Russia along the Northern Sea Route.

The first in the history of the power plant refueling, that is, the replacement of spent nuclear fuel with fresh one, is planned to begin before 2024. The manufacturer of nuclear fuel for all Russian nuclear icebreakers, as well as the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, is Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC), a company of Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL that is based in Elektrostal, Moscow Region.

The FNPP includes two KLT-40S reactors of the icebreaking type. Unlike convenient ground-based large reactors (that require partial replacement of fuel rods once every 12-18 months), in the case of these reactors, the refueling takes place once every few years and includes unloading of the entire reactor core and loading of fresh fuel into the reactor.

The cores of KLT-40 reactors of the Akademik Lomonosov floating power unit have a number of advantages compared to the reference ones: a cassette core was used for the first time in the history of the unit, which made it possible to increase the fuel energy resource to 3-3.5 years between refuelings, and also reduce the fuel component of the electricity cost by one and a half times. The FNPP operating experience formed the basis for the designs of reactors for nuclear icebreakers of the newest series 22220. Three such icebreakers have been launched by now.

For the first time the power units of the Akademik Lomonosov floating nuclear power plant were connected to the grid in December 2019, and put into commercial operation in May 2020. The supply of nuclear fuel from Elektrostal to Pevek and its loading into the second reactor is planned for 2024. The total power of the Akademik Lomonosov FNPP, supplied to the coastal grid of Pevek without thermal energy consumption on shore, is about 76 MW, being about 44 MW in the maximum thermal power supply mode. The FNPP generated 194 million kWh according to the results of 2023. The population of Pevek is just a little more than 4 thousand, while the FNPP has a potential for supplying electricity to a city with a population of up to 100 thousand people. After the FNPP commissioning two goals were achieved. These include first of all the replacement of the retiring capacities of the Bilibino NPP, which has been operating since 1974, as well as the Chaunskaya TPP, which has already been operating for more than 70 years. Secondly, energy is supplied to the main mining companies in western Chukotka in the Chaun-Bilibino energy hub a large ore and metal cluster, including gold mining companies and projects related to the development of the Baimsk ore zone. In September 2023, a 110 kilovolt power transmission line with a length of 490 kilometers was put into operation, connecting the towns of Pevek and Bilibino. The line increased the reliability of energy supply from the FNPP to both Bilibino consumers and mining companies, the largest of which is the Baimsky GOK. The comprehensive development of the Russian Arctic is a national strategic priority. To increase the NSR traffic is of paramount importance for accomplishment of the tasks set in the field of cargo shipping. This logistics corridor is being developed due regular freight voyages, construction of new nuclear-powered icebreakers and modernization of the relevant infrastructure. Rosatom companies are actively involved in this work. Rosatom Fuel Company TVEL (Rosatom Fuel Division) includes companies fabricating nuclear fuel, converting and enriching uranium, manufacturing gas centrifuges, conducting researches and producing designs. As the only nuclear fuel supplier to Russian NPPs, TVEL supplies fuel for a total of 75 power reactors in 15 countries, for research reactors in nine countries, as well as for propulsion reactors of the Russian nuclear fleet. Every sixth power reactor in the world runs on TVEL fuel. Rosatom Fuel Division is the world’s largest producer of enriched uranium and the leader on the global stable isotope market. The Fuel Division is actively developing new businesses in chemistry, metallurgy, energy storage technologies, 3D printing, digital products, and decommissioning of nuclear facilities. TVEL also includes Rosatom integrators for additive technologies and electricity storage systems. Rosenergoatom, Joint-Stock Company is part of Rosatom Electric Power Division and one of the largest companies in the industry acting as an operator of nuclear power plants. It includes, as its branches, 11 operating NPPs, including the FNPP, the Scientific and Technical Center for Emergency Operations at NPPs, Design and Engineering as well as Technological companies. In total, 37 power units with a total installed capacity of over 29.5 GW are in operation at 11 nuclear power plants in Russia. Machinery Manufacturing Plant, Joint-Stock Company (MSZ JSC, Elektrostal) is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of fuel for nuclear power plants. The company produces fuel assemblies for VVER-440, VVER-1000, RBMK-1000, BN-600,800, VK-50, EGP-6; powders and fuel pellets intended for supply to foreign customers. It also produces nuclear fuel for research reactors. The plant belongs to the TVEL Fuel Company of Rosatom.

Rosatom obtained a license for the first land-based SMR in Russia

On April 21, Rosenergoatom obtained a license issued by Rostekhnadzor to construct the Yakutsk land-based SMR in the Ust-Yansky District of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia).

ROSATOM and FEDC agree to cooperate in the construction of Russia's first onshore SNPP

ROSATOM and FEDC have signed a cooperation agreement to build Russia's first onshore SNPP in Yakutia.

Rosatom develops nuclear fuel for modernized floating power units

Rosatom has completed the development of nuclear fuel for the RITM-200S small modular reactor designed for the upgraded floating power units.