RYA Yachtmaster™ / Coastal Skipper Theory

We have a maximum of 6 students on this course ensuring that each student gets the maximum possible attention from the instructor.

Small class sizes allow each student to work at their own pace, ask questions and gain the greatest possible benefit from taking this theory course.

Assessment and Certification

Throughout the course, you’ll complete three theory exam papers, covering the full syllabus in depth. On successful completion, you’ll earn the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Theory Certificate—a recognised qualification demonstrating advanced knowledge of navigation, meteorology, and seamanship. This certificate is a key milestone towards taking your practical Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster™ exams.

The International Regulations for Prevention of Collision at Sea are dealt with in detail, ensuring you’re well-versed in the essential rules to keep everyone safe on the water. You’ll also deepen your understanding of yacht stability—vital knowledge for safety during offshore passages. Offshore safety procedures, including best practices for passage planning and handling emergencies, are thoroughly explored, helping you to anticipate and manage risks when out at sea.

The idea of the course is to advance your knowledge in navigation and also add to your navigation tool kit.

But that’s not all—this intensive course also dives deeper into the world of advanced navigation techniques, such as secondary port tidal calculations, navigation in restricted visibility, and thorough use of Admiralty publications. You’ll learn to interpret and use weather forecasts, plot weather systems, and make solid weather predictions using both instruments and your own observations. We go into detail on the International Regulations for Prevention of Collision at Sea and cover offshore yacht stability and safety at sea.

The idea of the course is to advance your knowledge in navigation and also add to your navigation tool kit. You’ll finish feeling confident in your ability to plan and execute safe and efficient coastal and offshore passages, equipped with the skills needed to face a variety of challenging conditions.

A Typical Day on the Course

The schedule typically runs from 0900 until approximately 1700, Monday through Saturday. However, it’s important to note that this isn’t always a straightforward 9-to-5 routine. The depth of learning required means that some days may run longer, depending on how quickly the group gets to grips with each topic and the number of questions asked.

A few things from me – The course is not a basic 9-5 course. The level of learning needed can mean days might be longer depending on the pace of the students learning and questions asked.

It is a lot about understanding and having the knowledge brought forward into the front of your thinking. The course can be great fun and will bring some really useful navigational techniques for longer routes and passage planning.

My advice for the course is keep a sharp pencil, listen carefully and ensure you ask lots of questions if something isn’t 100% understood. Most of all, enjoy it!