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)
What You’ll Learn in Our Online Sailing Theory Courses
Curious about what each online theory course covers? Here’s a quick breakdown of the main features and skills you’ll gain from each level:
Essential Navigation and Seamanship
Perfect for absolute beginners, this course covers the basics: understanding charts and tidal curves, plotting safe routes, picking up simple navigation skills, and brushing up on safety essentials. By the end, you’ll be able to plan a short trip and feel at home with navigation terms—no prior experience needed.
Day Skipper Theory
Ideal for budding skippers (or anyone aiming for that practical Day Skipper course), this course dives deeper. You’ll explore in-depth navigation and pilotage, meteorology, collision regulations, electronic tools, and passage planning. You’ll finish ready to confidently chart courses and handle real-world sailing decisions.
Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory
Take your knowledge to new horizons. This advanced course builds on all you’ve learned—sharpening your tidal calculations, weather forecasting, night navigation, and passage strategies for open water. Graduates are fully equipped for skippering more complex journeys, ready to sit practical exams with confidence.
Yachtmaster Ocean Theory
Unlock the secrets of astro-navigation. This course covers celestial navigation, sextant usage, ocean passage planning, global meteorology, and advanced route planning with modern electronic tools. Perfect for those dreaming of bluewater adventures—here’s where you master skills for worldwide sailing.
Professional Practices and Responsibilities: What You Need to Know
Looking to work commercially on the water? The Professional Practices and Responsibilities (PPR) course is a must-have for anyone seeking or renewing a commercial endorsement on their boating qualifications. Covering the vital regulations, legal duties, and codes of conduct expected from marine professionals, this online course ensures you understand your responsibilities both on and off the water. Whether you’re skippering charters, working on superyachts, or joining a crew, completing this course is essential for staying legal and professional in the maritime world.
What Do These Specialist Boating One Day Courses Cover?
Curious about what’s included in our specialist boating courses? Here’s a quick rundown to help you chart your course:
- Marine Radio (SRC): This course guides you through the essentials of using both handheld and fixed marine VHF radios. Expect hands-on practice in radio procedures, emergency protocols, and the legal essentials for on-the-water communication.
- First Aid Afloat: Learn first aid skills tailored specifically for the marine environment. The course covers everything from basic CPR to managing onboard injuries and treating hypothermia, ensuring you’re prepared for any mishaps at sea.
- Diesel Engine Know-How: Perfect for beginners, this course demystifies how marine diesel engines work. You’ll get practical tips on routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and—crucially—what to do if your engine gives you trouble far from shore.
- Radar Mastery: Dive into radar technology and discover how it can help with safe navigation and avoiding collisions. The course teaches interpretation, setup, and usage so you can navigate confidently in low visibility.
- Basic Sea Survival: Understand the fundamentals of staying safe should the unexpected happen. You’ll get to grips with survival techniques, lifejacket use, and the kinds of safety equipment every boat should carry.
- Offshore Personal Survival: Targeted at both leisure and competitive sailors, this course delves into strategies for handling rough seas and severe weather. From deploying life rafts to understanding search-and-rescue operations, you’ll emerge with vital survival skills.
Whichever you choose, these courses are designed to keep you safe, prepared, and equipped for every twist and turn of your nautical adventures.
Supporting Your Learning with Books, eBooks & Audiobooks
To complement your online studies, there’s a treasure trove of learning resources designed to fit every sailor’s needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a well-thumbed paperback, a digital download for reading on the go, or listening during your commute, you’ll find something that suits your style.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Printed Course Books: Essential for following along with your course material, covering everything from navigation theory to safety procedures. Favourites include texts from Reeds Skippers Hand book to How to guids.
- Interactive eBooks: Perfect if you want to access your study materials from almost anywhere—compatible with tablets, smartphones, or laptops for ultimate flexibility.
- Audiobooks: If you learn best by listening, several core navigation and seamanship titles are available as audiobooks—great for reinforcing knowledge while you’re out for a walk or prepping for a day on the water.
From beginners dipping their toes into tidal theory to future Yachtmasters chasing that next qualification, you’ll find the right mix of formats to help you succeed.
There’s an online course to match your experience and ambition—choose the one that’s right for you, and set sail on your learning journey!
What’s Next? Put Your Theory into Action with Practical Courses
So, you’ve mastered the charts, untangled the mysteries of VHF radio calls, and even know your port from your starboard without batting an eyelid—what’s next on your nautical journey? It’s time to swap the comfort of your desk for the real thing! Practical courses are the natural next step after theory, giving you the chance to turn your classroom know-how into hands-on confidence at sea.
By stepping aboard and working alongside experienced instructors, you’ll:
- Tackle real-world scenarios, from helming to mooring, navigation to safety drills
- Gain invaluable feedback and practical tips you simply can’t find in a textbook
- Build your seamanship and boost your confidence for when you’re captain (or crew!) on real adventures
Whether you’re setting your sights on a charter holiday in the Med or aiming to qualify for a flotilla and hire a boat. The RYA Day Skipper Practical course offers offers that essential experience to tie your theory together with true on-the-water skill. Your passage from “theory whizz” to capable skipper starts here—ready to set sail?
