RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

If you rely solely on GPS to cross an ocean, you will not know if you are right until the last day

This course in astro navigation and worldwide meteorology assumes a thorough knowledge of the subjects covered in other shorebased navigation courses. In addition to learning about all aspects of sextant navigation, this course is designed for those who aspire to blue water cruising covering: passage planning, worldwide meteorology, ocean currents, yacht and crew management, and electronic navigation aids.

Previous experience necessary - You should have experience of coastal and offshore sailing and possess knowledge of all the subjects covered in the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore shorebased course.

Having successfully mastered Coastal/Yachtmaster navigation you are now well equipped to join the Yachtmaster Ocean course and be privy to the ingenuity of the great navigators.

The full syllabus covers:

• The earth and the Celestial Sphere

• The PZX triangle

• The sextant

• Measurement of time

• Meridian altitudes

• Sun, star, planet and moon sights

• Compass checking

• Satellite navigation systems

• Great circle sailing

• Meteorology worldwide

• Passage planning

• Passage making

• Communications