RYA Practical Course

Coastal Skipper

The RYA Coastal Skipper course is for experienced sailors looking to undertake longer passages in coastal and offshore waters by day and night.

It covers advanced navigation, boat handling, and decision-making under challenging conditions, focusing on safe skippering in unfamiliar environments.

Duration

5 Days

Minimum Age

17 Years

Ratio

5:1 Max

Who Is This Course For?

Ideal for sailors with experience wanting to build on their knowledge and take on more challenging coastal passages. It’s the next step after Day Skipper, suitable for skippers looking to sail in more demanding conditions.

Course Content

Passage Planning and Execution

Plan longer passages, including weather, tides, Fuel consumption.

Safety and Emergency Procedures

Manage emergencies, man-overboard recovery, and emergency steering.

Advanced Navigation and Pilotage

Use electronic charts, advanced chart work, and pilotage skills by day & night.

Crew Management

Lead and communicate effectively during extended passages.

Boat Handling Under Power and Sail

Handle the yacht in difficult conditions, mooring, anchoring, and night-time navigation.

Night Sailing

Navigate using lights, buoys, and manage low visibility conditions.

Whats included

  • Instruction by an RYA-qualified instructor.

  • Use of yacht and safety equipment.

  • Accommodation aboard with fresh bedding.

  • Ingredients for daily breakfast and light lunches.

  • RYA Coastal Skipper Certificate.

  • All course-related fees covered, Fuel, Marina fees and any other necessities.

Course Syllabus

Pre-Course Experience

15 days at sea, 8 as skipper, 2 passages over 60 miles, 300 nautical miles logged, 8 hours of night sailing, and knowledge of coastal navigation and meteorology (shore-based theory recommended).

Itinerary

Duration
5 days
Destinations
End
Ocean Village (Gib)

OutcomeQualifies you to skipper coastal passages by day and night in various conditions, ready for more challenging yacht charters or progressing to the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore exams.