The RYA Yachtmaster is the only professional qualification accredited by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and recognised worldwide. This internationally respected certificate is essential for commercial yacht skippers operating sailing or motor vessels under 24 metres and serves as a gateway to a commercial endorsement. Many recreational sailors also pursue the RYA Yachtmaster exams as a benchmark of their sailing proficiency

A Yachtmaster is defined as “a yachtsman or woman competent to skipper a cruising yacht on any passage that does not require astro navigation.” This encompasses coastal and offshore voyages within 150 miles of a safe harbour. These routes, often close to land or across busy shipping lanes, present significant challenges—particularly in rough weather or poor visibility.

This course is designed to prepare you for the final RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Examination. The exam, which is conducted by an independent examiner, runs continuously over a day and night period.

Required Experience:

To be eligible for the RYA Yachtmaster exam, you must have a Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate, a valid First Aid Certificate HLTAID011, and meet specific sea time requirements, including 50 days at sea, 5 days as skipper, 2,500 nautical miles sailed, and 5 passages over 60 miles, with at least 2 of those being overnight and 2 as skipper. Remember, the exam is primarily a test of your ability to take command of a yacht, so your experience as skipper is crucial.

This course assumes that you have completed the Yachtmaster Theory course or possess equivalent knowledge.