RYA Sailing Courses FAQ

Q. I would like to learn to sail, but have never done anything like this before. Do I need any sailing experience?

A. Not at all. The RYA Competent Crew course takes you from complete novice to a useful crew member in just 5 days. You could enrol in a 2 day taster course, if you enjoy it this will count towards a Competent Crew course, leaving only 3 days to do.

Q. I have been sailing a while now and would like to learn more, can I go straight to RYA Day Skipper, or do I need to do a competent crew course first?

A. No, there is no requirement to complete any course prior to your RYA Day Skipper course. It is recommended that you have logged at least 100 NM with 4 hours night sailing and have a good understanding of chart work, collision regulations etc.

Q. I would like to do my RYA Day Skipper course but I haven't done the theory course, does that matter?

A. Attending the theory course is an advantage, but if you have a knowledge of chartwork, tides, collision regulations and meteorology there is no need.

Q. I would like to do my RYA Day Skipper course, can you teach me the theory at the same time?

A. In a 5 day course there just isn't time to teach the theory. We can help with a bit of revision etc alternatively you could book a full 9 day Combination Course, this covers all the theory and practical in one go! You will leave us with RYA Day Skipper Shorebased and Practical certificates.

Q. I am thinking about doing a Coastal Skipper Course, I have been told there is an exam at the end of it, is this the case?

A. No. This is a common misunderstanding. The RYA Coastal Skipper Course is a 5 day practical course, aimed at improving your boat handling and skippering skills. At the end of it, if all goes well you will be awarded a RYA Coastal Skipper course completion certificate. This course is often confused with the MCA Coastal Skipper exam (now renamed MCA Yachtmaster Coastal) where after 4 days training an Examiner will come aboard at put you through your paces for about 8 hours.