	home
	correspondence tuition
	advantages of distance learning course
	RYA training schemes
	courses
	prices
	faqs
	contact us
	enrol

Online Store

RYA Day Skipper (1)

RYA/MCA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster (1)

RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean (1)

ICC

Instrument Pack (2)

All Products ...

rya training schemes

Training Schemes

At present there are no statutory qualifications for those of us who sail purely for leisure in the UK. Increasingly it can be an advantage to have a recognised qualification for insurance or chartering purposes, but despite the potential introduction of compulsory qualification it remains possible, albeit foolhardy, for anybody to step on board and skipper a small boat with little knowledge and no experience.

The situation abroad is more complicated with many countries insisting on evidence of competence. This particularly affects charters overseas and can be frustrating for those who have sailing experience in this country but no formal qualifications.

The RYA/MCA training schemes are an attempt to counter both these problems by persuading people of the benefits of formal instruction whilst providing certificates of competence which are internationally recognised. Further details of all RYA courses (shorebased and practical) and examinations are contained in the RYA booklets G15 (sail) and G18 (power). Both booklets can be obtained from Longitude School of Navigation.

Logical Progression of RYA Qualifications

Structure of the RYA Training Schemes

There are three elements involved in the complete RYA qualification, shorebased courses, practical courses leading on to Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster practical exams taken afloat. Relatively few people have success in the practical examinations without the benefit of having completed the theory courses. Having completed the theory prior to your practical course, you are able to put your theory into practice and devote more time to the practical aspects of sailing and manoeuvring under power than someone who has no theory behind them.

RYA shorebased and practical courses are thus intended to complement one another. With the exception of the Competent Crew course, it is assumed that students attending practical courses will have a good knowledge of navigation and meteorology in order that the instructor can concentrate on practical aspects of the syllabus. Although the courses are progressive, there is no requirement to possess an earlier certificate before enrolling in a later course. For example, if you have a good knowledge of navigation and seamanship and a degree of practical experience, you may consider enrolling for the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster course. This is perfectly acceptable and you are not required to have first achieved Day Skipper qualification. If you are relatively inexperienced or have no navigational experience then it would be beneficial to enrol for the Day Skipper Course, rather than struggle with studies that may be beyond your immediate ambition.

International Certificate of Competence (ICC)

This certificate is often requested by overseas authorities to provide evidence of competence. It is a practical and oral test (as opposed to a theory course) conducted at a recognised RYA test centre and cannot be awarded by correspondence.

The RYA Day Skipper shorebased course more than covers the syllabus required for the ICC. The ICC can also be awarded to holders of a Day Skipper practical certificate.

Home