Specialist Short Courses
Shore based Courses

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to chartwork, navigation, meteorology and the basics of seamanship and is invaluable for those considering taking a Day Skipper practical course. Candidates will greatly benefit if they have some practical experience prior to this course, but this is not essential.

The syllabus arms would-be skippers with enough knowledge to navigate around familiar waters by day, however a basic knowledge of lights, weather and IRPCS is also included. The course includes 2 assessment papers which, upon successful completion, the RYA Dayskipper Shorebased for Power and Sail Certificate is issued. Please note that the period between the two weekend course dates will include homework.

Course topics include:

  • the basics of seamanship
  • the essentials of coastal navigation and pilotage
  • chartwork
  • electronic charts
  • position fixing
  • plotting a course to steer
  • weather forecasting and meteorology
  • tides
  • collision regulations
  • construction, parts and equipment of a cruising boat
  • emergency and safety procedures including distress calls
  • use of flares, safety harnesses, lifejackets and liferafts

Duration: 5 days (40 hours)
Price: £350
Includes: course pack; RYA Day Skipper book, Training Chart Plotter software and Training Charts.
Available on day: Portland Plotter, Dividers and Almanac.
Pre-requisites: No prior knowledge required.