RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory

The RYA Yachtmaster theory is a 6-day advanced course for skippers and navigators building on the RYA Day skipper theory. After completing this course, you will have a thorough knowledge of all the theory required to navigate offshore.

This course is essential for anybody working towards their RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore Certificate of Competence. The Yachtmaster Theory Course is a comprehensive look at all the navigation areas, from basic chartwork to secondary port calculations providing the Navigator with a real understanding of how to navigate on Coastal or offshore passages. The topics covered within the RYA Yachtmaster theory course will be consistent with the subjects covered during your RYA Yachtmaster practical exam.

Completing a shore-based course means you learn with a group of like-minded people. All our Instructors have a huge depth of experience and in-depth knowledge of the subject. They can pass on the top tips, with real-life stories and ways to overcome common issues. You can access all the publications, VHF radios, books, charts, and publications.

Being based at an RYA Centre based at Cowes Yacht Haven, we have access to our Motor boat and RIBs so you can see the safety equipment and traditional and electronic equipment we use for navigation.

Course Structure

The course is a classroom based intensive course covering all aspects of navigation. You will cover the following subjects, not necessarily in this order:

Day 1: Introduction, tools of the navigator, charts, almanacs, time zones, 5011, chart corrections. Tidal theory, tables, springs and neaps, tidal diamonds. Raster and vector charts. Tidal heights.

Day 2: I.R.P.C.S. GPS, electronic aids to navigation and their limitations. Tidal streams, EP and CTS, Leeway and ETA calculations. International Maritime Regulations.

Day 3: Tidal streams, EP and CTS, Leeway and ETA calculations. Quick plotting techniques. Meteorology, world weather, terminology, GRIB files and how to interpret a forecast. Safety, seamanship and environment. Passage planning.

Day 4: Pilotage and passage planning. Visual aids to Navigation, leading lights and clearing bearings. Buoyage. Meteorology, passage of frontal depression. Sea breeze’s and Fog.

Day 5: Chartwork exercises/revision. Tidal stream exercises. IRPCS, leading lights and clearing bearings. Meteorology.

Day 6: You will sit three exams during the day, Chart work, IRPCS and Meteorology. You will be awarded the RYA Yachtmaster theory certificate on successful completion of all three.

Useful Information

Once booked, we provide pre-course information which includes recommended areas of study and handy revision materials.

Almost all customers choose our accommodation option. Flying Fish crew houses in Cowes are comfortable and centrally located, just a 5-minute walk to the town and our training centre. You can mix and socialise with other people on the course who, like you, will be completing the RYA Yachtmaster Theory Course. Accommodation available for £290.