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Yachtmaster Coastal

Check one off of your bucket-list with this incredible adventure.  The unmatched beauty, solitary anchorages and complex navigation provides an experience that will take you through some of the most complex and challenging waters found anywhere in the world.

This course is for seasoned sailors, whose accumulated experience presumes an understanding of weather, electronic navigation, vessel systems and maintenance, boat handling  in various weather conditions, and an understanding of coastal navigation and tidal waters.  Our Yachtmaster Instructors will challenge you to master advanced navigation, night passages, and learn how to plan for offshore sailing.  This journey includes the opportunity to learn Celestial Navigation, the oldest form of navigating by sun and stars, the understanding of which provides a vital as an emergency backup in the event of electronic failure and a greater depth of understanding of navigation.

Topics covered include:

• Line Handling, Docking & Boat Handling Under Power
• Points of Sail & Sail Handling
• Vessel handling in confined quarters
• Man Overboard & Safety/Emergency Procedures
• Knots & Seamanship
• Tides, Currents, & Navigation
• Celestial Navigation
• Weather Patterns
• Meal Planning

Course includes:

• 10-days/10-nights accommodation in a fully appointed cabin aboard a 40-50′ yacht
• Delicious meals prepared as a crew – see our sample menus
• Yachtmaster Instructional Skippers whose local knowledge and advanced skills will teach and encourage you to reach your goals
• Rental of tether and harness, if needed

Pre-requisites:

• Achievement of the equivalent of Bareboat Skipper (10+ days liveaboard instruction) and Coastal Navigation
• The equivalent of at least three seasons (minimum 40 days) sailing or 250 nautical miles sailing, ideally on a coastal waterway
• VHF – ROC radio certificate

Certifications:  Students who wish to obtain certifications may pursue Coastal Skipper Advanced, IYT Yachtmaster Coastal, and Celestial Navigation, depending on qualifications.  All students will receive the same theory materials – achievement of the various levels of certification depends upon each students prior experience and sea miles (as skipper).  Students who take this course also qualify to achieve IYT Bareboat Skipper with the International Certificate of Competency (for international chartering opportunities).

Minimum Sea Mile/Experience Requirements (to be achieved prior to the time of testing):  

• Coastal Skipper Advanced: 300 nm/at least one season (20 days) sailing, ideally on a coastal waterway
• Yachtmaster Coastal:   500 nm, including 20-days as skipper, and 12 hours on watch at night

Certifications: 

• Yachtmaster Coastal: $350
• Bareboat Skipper w/ICC: $350
• Celestial Navigation: $125

Course Materials/Theory: Study materials for the theory portion of this course will be a combination of online and books, depending upon the course.  Celestial Navigation includes a copy of Tom Cunliffe’s Celestial Navigation. All students will receive access to a folder containing materials to prepare in advance.  Students will also be emailed a folder so that they can review their assigned vessel’s manual so that they are prepared in advance.

Required Equipment: (all available in our store for purchase)

• PFD’s, tether, and harnesses (All of these items can be purchased or rented from us
• Rigging knife, flashlight with red lens/head mounted light
• Special orders upon request

CUSTOM CRUISE & LEARN COURSES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST

Please contact [email protected] for details

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RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore is one of the most highly respected and prestigious sailing qualifications in the world and we pride ourselves on training many high calibre Yachtmaster Candidates. Exam Preparation Courses are delivered by one of our fully qualified and extremely experienced RYA Yachtmaster Instructors.

Please click here to see the progression of RYA Sailing Practical Courses and the recommended path for both theory and practical courses.

We have also put together some details notes on The Yachtmaster exam here.

The week starts with an assessment day, when the instructor will gauge your strengths and weaknesses. The rest of the time will be spent improving weak areas in order to prepare you for the exam. You will take command of the yacht on short passages, by day and night. You will be required to navigate in a seamanlike manner, with both efficiency and safety. Your instructor will give you guidance and coaching on boat handling techniques both at sea and in a confined space.

Examiners expect a high level of expertise, particularly in safety critical exercises such as man overboard, or sailing down wind. Your instructor will also ensure that the theory subjects, in particular meteorology, IRPCS, buoyage and passage planning are not new to you.  At the end of the week, you will be given an honest debrief, leaving you confident in your own ability, taking the exam if you feel ready to do so.

At the end of the preparation course, the instructor will leave the process and an Independent RYA Examiner will come aboard to conduct the exam. Every student will be examined on how they skipper the yacht on short passages and complete various other tasks.

Although this is a sailing exam, you will be expected to be familiar with all the vessels systems which includes knowledge of engines to at least the level of the one-day RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance course .

A knowledge of the operation of radar and GPS is also expected.

The examiner will want to see you dock the boat under engine in a variety of circumstances possibly alongside and stern-to. He/she may set you a challenge to dock in a particular place or ask you to choose. He/she will also expect you to be able to handle and turn the vessel in a confined space with awareness of the effects of the prevailing conditions. You will also be expected to be able to handle the vessel under sail in a confined space and this may include sailing on and/or off a mooring, your anchor or a dock. The examiner is looking for good boat control, use of crew, wind awareness and a good lookout for other vessels in the area. Once at sea it is a legal requirement to keep a log. This doesn’t have to be detailed but the examiner will want to see that you know where you are at all times. Don’t be afraid to reef, we are cruising not racing, but at the same time make sure you have enough sail up to keep the vessel going. Also make sure you have practiced your classic navigation as fixing your position, CTS and EP may all come into the exam. Also be comfortable with tidal problems and operation of the GPS, specifically the one on the exam vessel.

Cost is $1695 plus RYA Exam fee of around $300 [depends on exchange rate]. Please click on the ' Training Dates & Booking ' button on the right to check available dates.

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• Certificates of Competence
• RYA Yachtmaster

What is an RYA Yachtmaster?

The RYA Yachtmaster® Certificate of Competence is often the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving your experience and competence as a skipper. Unlike other qualifications in the cruising programme, there is no formal training course to become an RYA Yachtmaster. Instead, provided you have sufficient experience, certification and seatime, you can put yourself forward for an exam to test your skills and knowledge. There are a number of RYA navigation courses that will help you prepare for your exam. Many RYA Yachtmaster candidates also choose to book themselves into an RYA training centre for some specialised exam preparation training, but this is not compulsory.

You are capable of coastal passages

You are competent to undertake passages up to 150 miles offshore

You have the knowledge and experience to sail worldwide

• Arranging your exam

The Coastal and Offshore exams are practical tests afloat, and the Ocean is an oral exam. Find out more about qualifying passages, exam fees and how to book. 

With an RYA Yachtmaster Coastal, Offshore or Ocean Certificate of Competence you can start a career at sea.

You'll need to have the appropriate qualification for the vessel and area of operation.

If you want to work commercially, you'll need a commercial endorsement.

Find out more about other RYA professional qualifications.

• Getting the most from a Yachtmaster Fast Track course

Can you really become an RYA Yachtmaster in as little as 14 weeks? Check out our top tips for getting the most from a Yachtmaster Fast Track course...

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor – Everything You Need to Know

The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor ticket is considered the most useful and credible of all motor cruising qualifications. Administered on behalf of the UK Maritime and Coastgaurd Agency by the RYA the qualification is accepted as a worldwide standard. To gain an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor qualification you must sit a practical exam. 

What Does the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Allow You to Do?

Gaining an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor will allow you to work commercially on motor vessels not exceeding 200GT.

The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor exam certifies that you are competent to skipper a motor yacht on any passage that is not more than 150nm from a harbour.

How Can You Sit an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Exam?

The exam can be organised via the RYA to be done on your own vessel or via an RYA training centre, to be done on an RYA training vessel. It should be noted, that to complete the exam on your own vessel, your vessel must be up to an appropriate safety standard.

Most RYA training centres offering the RYA Cruising Scheme offer some form of pre exam preparation or coaching for those looking to take an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor exam.

These courses are often referred to as ‘RYA Yachtmaster Prep’ courses. This is unique within the RYA training framework in that it does not have a fixed course syllabus, length or course completion certificate.

Who Can Do an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Exam?

The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor exam is open to anyone who meets the minimum criteria, with all experience within the last 10 years.

• 18 years of age or older
• 50 days spent at sea
• 2500nm cruised, with at least 50% in tidal waters
• 5 days as skipper
• 5 passages of over 60nm, with at least 2 as skipper

If you have skippering experience but not the required days or passages, then the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Motor might be for you.

If you have the miles, but not the skippering experience, then again, the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Motor might be for you.

Additionally, exam candidates must also hold a relevant GMDSS VHF certification and an RYA First Aid certificate or recognised equivalent.

Can You Go Straight to the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Course and Exam?

You can indeed jump straight into the RYA Cruising Scheme at this stage, however, it is imperative that you understand the levels that are required of you, both in your knowledge and practical skills.

It is suggested that as a minimum you have completed (and passed) the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory course as the knowledge in here is both required for you to be at the level required, but will be formally tested during your RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor exam, both orally and in practical applications.

What Do You Need to Know before Attending an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Course and Exam?

You, of course, need to be a suitably experienced skipper and this involves meeting the prerequisites mentioned above to be eligible. You should be able to handle your vessel competently in close quarters and at sea. You should be comfortable applying this in various day and night time passages.

As mentioned, it is strongly recommended to have completed the RYA Coastal and Yachtmaster Theory as the depth of knowledge gained from this shore based course will be tested throughout your exam. 

How Long Does an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Prep Course and Exam Take?

The exam can take anything from 8 hours to 2 days depending on how many candidates are being examined on one vessel at a time. Up to 4 candidates can sit the exam at once and this would last for a maximum of 48 hours if so.

An RYA Yachtmaster Prep course is generally four and a half days long and is usually directly followed by the practical exam.

Is There a Set Syllabus for the Prep Course?

No, this is the one time that while there is a recognised ‘course’, there is no syllabus. It is up to the experienced instructor on the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Prep course to tailor the learnings to your needs. This is more about refining your skills rather than teaching new ones.

You should be honest with yourself and your instructor in order for learnings throughout the week to be tailored to improve yourself on any weak areas that you may have.

What Should I Expect from a Prep Course?

These courses run as a standalone course and while there may be students on another course, generally everyone onboard is a candidate for an RYA Yachtmaster Exam. The courses should however be run with no more than 4 students on board.

The content will depend on the needs of all students and is aimed at fine-tuning existing skills rather than teaching new ones. This will involve a lot of night time cruising and navigation, carrying out challenging boat handling while using theory knowledge and ensuring general skippering skills are up to scratch.

There is a basic syllabus that is used to help shape the exam content, but in reality, you can be tested on anything from the RYA cruising scheme within the exam.

Before choosing the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Prep course you need to be honest with yourself and your own abilities. While on the course you need to take on the advice and guidance given by the instructor on what areas need work. If you speak to your instructor before the course, they can tailor the instruction to your needs.

What Should I Expect on an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Exam?

On the exam, you will be given the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and competence. You will be expected to take full responsibility of your vessel and crew. The examiner will be looking for you to demonstrate competence and show your broad range of experience.

The exam will be an intensive experience and even when you are not the designated skipper, you will still be asked questions and observed and examined as a participant of the crew.

During the exam you will be asked to complete various tasks, ranging from leaving the dock, skippering a short passage, casualty recovery, night pilotage and even blind navigation. Additionally, you will be tested on theoretical aspects such as how to deal with an engine failure, knowledge of your vessel’s stability, meteorology and IRPCS.

As a potential RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor, these tasks are ones that should now be second nature to you and should take minimal time to plan while the theoretical knowledge should be able to roll off your tongue. 

What Is the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Exam Syllabus?

The following topics make up the basis for the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor exam syllabus. IRPCS, safety, boat handling, seamanship, responsibility as skipper, navigation, meteorology and signals.

But, as mentioned above, anything from the whole RYA cruising syllabus scheme can be tested.

What Is the Cost of an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor Course and Exam?

As ever, many schools differ in price. We would recommend that you take a look around at the various options and find what suits your needs the best. Cheapest is not often better.

This can range from knowing if you will have to share a cabin while onboard to whether food and berthing charges are included to how many other students you will be sharing your week with.

The exam fee is usually not included, which is currently £231.

Where Should I Do My RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor?

As always there are many thoughts and pros on cons on this, and as a potential RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor you should consider yourself experienced enough to sit the exam anywhere. However, if you choose to sit the exam in an area that you are familiar with then you will take a little bit of the stress out of learning a new area and start with a small advantage of having that all important local knowledge at your disposal.

What Happens If I Struggle on thePrep Course?

Your instructor should be able to update you on your ability levels throughout the course. They will be highly experienced and it is suggested that you listen to their advice given.

If you are learning something for the first time you should consider if you are ready for the exam. Talk to your instructor and they will be able to guide you on if you are ready for the exam, if they would advise further training or if they recommend that you aim for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Motor exam instead.

What Is the Pass Mark for the Exam?

There is no pass mark as such and the examiner will be looking to see that you are a competent and complete skipper, capable of looking after both your vessel and crew in a safe manner.

Every exam is different and no examiner will be setting out to fail any candidates, but they must ensure and check that each candidate is able to demonstrate their ability, knowledge and skills in a safe and timely manner.

If you were to fail to reach the levels of an RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor certificate of competence then the examiner will give you a thorough debrief complete with action points to work on before you have another attempt at the exam. 

What Comes After RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor?

After completion of the exam, you will have gained the highly sought after RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor certificate of competence and you can get this commercially endorsed by adding a sea survival certification, a personal medical and a PPR course, all of which, along with your GMDSS VHF and First Aid should be sent off to the RYA for certification upgrade. This will now allow the holder to skipper a vessel commercially, so long as it is less than 200 gross tonnes, up to 150nm from a harbour.

The next step is of course to get out on the water and to keep learning, keep gaining experience and keep improving on the skills and knowledge learned so far. No skipper is the finished article and we should all keep seeking to improve.

Within the RYA cruising scheme, there are a couple more steps that are possible. This is to progress and upgrade your RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Motor certificate of competence to an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Motor certificate of competence.

To do this there is 3 main steps, first, you will need to complete an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course, where you will learn about astro navigation, ocean meteorology and ocean navigation,   join the waiting list for our ocean theory course here . Next, is to complete an ocean qualifying passage that meets the necessary requirements. Finally, you will then need to complete another exam, this time an oral exam, where you will discuss your ocean qualifying passage and general ocean skippering skills.

On successful completion of this, you will be awared the highest accolade within the RYA cruising scheme, the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Motor certificate of competence.

One other direction of travel is to become an RYA Cruising Instructor for Motor. To do this, you will first want to consolidate your skippering skills and knowledge then look to come back and start off with an RYA Cruising Instructor course. On this course, RYA Instructor Trainers will assess and guide you through what is required and expected to work as an RYA Cruising Instructor for Motor. 

Releated Posts

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory – Everything You Need to Know

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Sail – Everything You Need to Know

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RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Yachtmaster Offshore Prep & Exam

Preparation course overview.

The RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Yachtmaster Offshore Preparation course enables those who hold the required prerequisite experience to sit the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore exam to fine tune their existing skills prior to sitting the practical exam.

About the course

The preparation course is run over 5 days and designed to assess your level of competency against the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore exam syllabus found in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158/15) and is intended to fine tune your existing skills and polish any areas of weakness prior to the exam. The subsequent exam is then run over two days, following the preparation course.

Prior the prep course, we advise that you read the exam syllabus and give yourself an honest appraisal of your strengths and weaknesses. Try to address any shortfalls beforehand and then during the preparation course be open with your instructor about your abilities and what you need to work on in the run up to your exam.

During the prep course your instructor will frequently update you on your progress and ability and recommend which exam you should aim for – whether Coastal or Offshore.

The syllabus is taught in a ratio of (4:1) students to instructor.

Please follow the link if you are looking for the RYA yachtmaster offshore professional course

Prerequisites

Rya yachtmaster coastal exam (sail).

Candidates must be aged 17 or over and require;

• A Radio Operators Qualification – A GMDSS Short Range Certificate (SRC) or higher grade of marine radio certificate
• A valid first aid certificate
• Seatime – 800 miles logged within 10 years prior to examination, 30 days living on board, two days as skipper and 12 night hours.

For holders of the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical course completion certificate, the seatime requirement is reduced to 400 miles, 2 days living on board, 12 night hours, two days as skipper.

Half of the qualifying seatime must have been gained in tidal waters. For sizes of vessel please refer to page 73 in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158/15).

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Exam (Sail)

Candidates must be aged 18 or over and require;

• Seatime – 50 days, 2,500 miles, including at least five passages over 60 miles, acting as skipper for at least two of these passages and including two which have involved overnight passages. Five days’ experience as skipper.

At least half of the qualifying seatime must have been accrued in tidal waters. For sizes of vessel please refer to page 73 in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme Syllabus and Logbook (G158/15).

Full details and definitions on qualifying passages can be found here .

Exam overviews

The exam will include an assessment of your skippering skills, boat handling, general seamanship, navigation, safety awareness and knowledge of the IRPCS (collision regulations), meteorology and signals. You will be set tasks to demonstrate your ability and may also be asked questions on any part of the syllabus for all practical and shorebased courses up to Yachtmaster Coastal level.

The exam will include an assessment of your skippering skills, boat handling, general seamanship, navigation, safety awareness and knowledge of the IRPCS, meteorology and signals, with particular emphasis on command skills, boat handling under sail and power in confined spaces, plus navigation and pilotage techniques in daylight, at night and in reduced visibility. Adverse weather conditions and coping with emergencies are also covered.

The examiner will set tasks to enable you to demonstrate your ability as skipper and may also ask questions on any part of the syllabus for all practical and shorebased courses up to RYA Yachtmaster Offshore.

Exam Duration 

The exam will take around 8-12 hours per candidate candidate. No more than two candidates can be examined in 24 hours. Whilst one candidate is being examined the remaining candidates will act as crew.

Qualifications

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Certification of Competence.

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence.

Dates and pricing

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Yachtmaster Preparation & Exam - One week prep & assessment

This intensive coaching session will help prepare you for the examination which gives you the most respected yachting qualification in the world. You must arrive fully prepared in your sailing ability and with a full knowledge of navigational theory. Practice complex sailing skills with guidance from one of our senior instructors and gain confidence from working under pressure. Our 6 day course means you will receive 4 days full exam preparation/practice time prior to commencement of your exam. Prepare a theoretical passage plan for presentation to your RYA examiner who will independently assess your theory and practical knowledge and skills.

Note: We offer a “ Boat Handling ” combined with advanced sailing skills course in the week preceding this preparation and exam week.

1 week (6 full days sailing)

Pre Course Experience

We will send you a document listing all the disciplines that can be tested by the examiner. For YM Offshore you will be tested on a) MOB under sail & b) Navigation tactics in fog (blind navigation).

Assumed Knowledge

Yachtmaster theory knowledge including IRPCS!!! Ideally you have successfully completed RYA Tidal Coastal Skipper Practical completion certificate - this course teaches you the sailing skills & techniques required to further practice & pass an RYA exam.

Course Content

6 days - 4 days preparation time followed by exam (depending on number of candidates). Drilling and honing the skills. Execute theoretical passage plan (supplied by us!) for presentation to your examiner

Saloon berth €1290

Panel divided twin cabin berth €1290 pp

Single occupancy cabin €1420 (one person)

Double cabin €2580 (couple sharing)

Availability

Contact us for availability

Yachtmaster for Sail and Power (Only available on Amazon) Yachtmaster Exercises for Sail and Power (Only available on Amazon)

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Course content

Below is a list of the disciplines you will practice leading to your RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore or Coastal Yachtmaster Exam with Canary Sail

• Passage planning
• Man Over Board
• Managing yacht and crew
• Navigation in poor visibility
• Position fixing/finding
• Yacht handling
• Sailing on/off bouys, berth and anchor

Typical Itinerary for Week

We will meet and welcome you at the San Miguel Marina in Tenerife and settle you onto your yacht. Ideally, you will start preparations and safety brief in the evening in preparation for an early start the following morning. You are then invited to join us for drinks to meet the team, your instructors and fellow students or crew who start their full week courses. You will be made very welcome by the Canary Sail team and we can advise the best restaurants for you to sample!

You will participate in the safety briefing on board, you will be asked to prepare the boat for departure and almost always be taken out for a sailing/MOB session in the wind acceleration zone (WAZ) just off he harbour wall. You will also be given an opportunity to get used to handling your yacht in confined spaces.

Boat handling in and around the marina before making the first passage through the Wind Zone to Marinas and ports in your area.

Plenty of yacht handling and sailing exercises including passage making, pilotage at day and at night, blind navigation, MOB, sailing on/off with the opportunity to work on your passage plan in preparation for presentation to the examiner.

Tuesday evening or Wednesday, your instructor will introduce you to your examiner and leave the yacht. The rest is then up to you – good luck with your exam!

Leave the yacht at 09.00 latest please for your return home or to continue your holiday in Tenerife. Please see our stay page for accommodation .

Exclusive Course Yacht option for couples, families or groups on 36 to 50ft cruise yachts.

This Yachtmaster Exam assessment week is not a course! The Yachtmaster Prep & Exam week offers just 4 days of exam preparation, comprising of intense “Drills & Skills” practice of the sailing a docking exercises. Theory is also tested – not taught! There is no time for teaching new techniques. These should be covered before one arrives – fully prepared for the Exam week.

The prerequisites for this exam week are a total of 2500 sea miles covered under sail in the last 10 years, half of which must be conducted in tidal waters. At Offshore level, 5 x 60NM or longer passages are required, 2 as skipper and 2 overnight. Ideally, some formal sail training using traditional methods of chart navigation is a significant advantage to the candidate. Very sound knowledge of Navigational Theory and Collision Regulations is a must!

This Yachtmaster Exam Prep & Exam is run over a 6-day period. For the prep practice and testing of knowledge, drills and skills, your RYA Instructor has just 4 days with a max of 4 candidates on board to prepare for the remaining 2 days of assessment when your Prep instructor steps off the yacht and is replaced by an independent RYA Examiner.

Whether the candidate is successful or not in passing the exam, one gains great benefit from participation in such an intense training week. On passing the Exam, the resultant Certificate will help reduce yacht insurance premiums, both privately and for Yacht Charter. This certificate is the International “door opener” into the prestigious world of the Super Yacht and Professional Sailing Industry.

Yes, the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal, and in particular Offshore Certificate is widely accepted internationally, both by Yacht Charter Companies and in the pursuit of a Professional Sailing Career.

A theoretical Passage Plan will be presented to each candidate, comprising of Almanac, Charts, Weather Synopsis and all the material necessary to pre-prepare a Passage Plan. For those training in the week(s) leading to this exam week, these will be handed out early. During the exam, passage plans will be presented by each candidate to the examiner. In addition, the examiner will test depth of knowledge of any aspect of navigational theory, and Collision Regulations – e.g. Buoyage, Lights Shapes, Sounds, etc. 

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A wide range of practical and theory courses offered all year round

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From Bareboat to skippered charter, we have an option to suit your needs

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Canary Sail offers year-round sailing courses, cruising, and yacht charters from their base in South Tenerife, just 15 minutes from TFS Airport. They provide comprehensive RYA training, covering over 100 nautical miles and visiting multiple ports. With experienced instructors and a focus on quality, they attract many returning clients and referrals.

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Take a look at our feed across the canary sail world, our most recent social media posts, canary sail s.l, recent posts.

• Catamaran Cruising and Sailing Training in the Canary Islands 5th August 2024
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Looking to hire a yacht, take a sailing course or maybe just relax on a boat in the Canaries? With over 20 years experience we offer an unrivalled range of RYA Courses.

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RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200 Course 300

MPT is the most complete full service private maritime school in the country and has been training mariners since 1983. Our Fort Lauderdale based campuses host over 45,000 square feet of classrooms, deck and engineering training labs, the Ship's Store, and student service facilities.

Preparing for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master...

Course description.

  Yachtmaster Certificate of Competency

The Yachtmaster Qualification is the pinnacle of the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Training and Certification System. It is widely recognized throughout the world as a prestigious accomplishment.

 Holding this credential can:

- Improve your resume for any deck department position on yachts - Serve as prerequisite training for an MCA OOW 3000 GT CoC - Professional Development in your yachting career  - Serve as your Certificate of Competence (CoC) for operators of yachts up to 200 tons

The Yachtmaster Course should be undertaken by crew aspiring to advance to the MCA OOW level up to 3000 tons and by those who are advancing to the command level for Master of Yachts up to 200 tons.

  2 Routes Available – Same Course:

Yachtmaster Coastal Yachtmaster Offshore

Yachting professional candidates are encouraged to start their training and professional development as early in their career as possible. Many will take their STCW Basic Safety Training Program (#140) and then when they qualify, it is recommended to obtain the Yachtmaster Coastal CoC. Candidates wishing to upgrade to the offshore route later can simply examine, without additional required training.

Whether you qualify for the Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore, the training is the same. The only difference is your experience and practical skill level. You will be examined towards whichever level you qualify for.

The MPT Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore Course (#300) is taught on a Motor Yacht and the practical training and examination are towards a Motor Certificate of Competence. (If you are applying for a Sail Endorsement, this course will not satisfy your practical training and exam requirements). All sea time must be on a power boat and not on a sail boat under power. The Theory, SRC, PPR, and Basic Training courses are the same for both schemes.

The MPT Yachtmaster advanced level certification is available in a 2 week + exam program combining shore-based theory and practical hands-on techniques for a Motor Vessel and the RYA Practical Examination. The first week of class is in the classroom (theory) and the second week is Practical, out on the boat. In addition, there will be class on Saturday of the first week so please plan accordingly.

YACHTMASTER COASTAL & OFFSHORE Subjects Include:

One week (40 hours) of comprehensive shore-based theory module with written assessment papers including navigation, tidal calculations, international and inland rules of the road, coastal pilotage, meteorology, anchoring and mooring, docking and undocking, buoyage systems, safety, voyage and passage planning, general ship knowledge and seamanship.  A theory examination will be conducted after the completion of the 40-hour theory portion of the program.

One week of Yachtmaster Offshore/Coastal practical training is conducted on board one of MPT’s Yachts. These yachts are up to 48’ and are twin screw motor yachts. This part of the instruction covers seamanship skills such as nautical terms, tides, marlinespike seamanship, anchor work, boat handling, docking, general yachting skills, basic weather, navigation and passage planning. This course will be a preparation course for your final Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Examination. The practical portion of the course will be conducted during daytime, evening and occasionally may include weekend hours.

The Yachtmaster Course #300 is an Advanced Review Course and it is assumed that candidates will have the prerequisite knowledge of the Basics of Navigation and recommended to the level of RYA Day Skipper, and the very least, the level of the Essential Navigation On-line course. To increase your likelihood of success, we recommend taking the online pre-course - ESSENTIAL NAVIGATION. Additionally, flash cards are available in the MPT Ship's Store for rules study in lights and shapes. Also, many Apps are available to assist in these subjects for pre-study. It is also strongly advised that you pick up your study material well in advance of the start of your course. Pre-study is essential for a successful outcome of this course. 

The RYA Yachtmaster course is accredited by the RYA and MCA and recognized for service as Captain or Mate (OOW) up to 200gt up to 150 miles from a safe haven, at the Offshore level or up to 60 miles from safe haven at the Coastal level. 

The Yachtmaster CoC meets the STCW A-V1/1 and section A V1/1-4 when combined with Basic Training Courses. Yachtmaster Offshore fulfills the prerequisite for MCA OOW 500 and 3000 GT and the MCA STCW A-II/2 Command Certificate for Master 200GT.

Sea Service Prerequisites (minimums): Note you must be able to provide proof of your sea service before undertaking the exam. This should be provided at least 2 weeks before the course when possible to allow our team to review it and ensure your eligibility for the course. Speak to your MPT Career Counselor or your instructor for assistance.

 Sea Service can be proven by submitting one or more of the following: 

• Log book (RYA or other acceptable)
• Sea Service Testimonial Letters from captains, owners or operators of vessels outlining vessel specifics, time underway, your capacity served onboard and the location of the service (tidal or non-tidal waters, etc).
• Sea Service Forms (calendar style - provided you can supply all of the additional information such as number of miles, etc.) Method 2 is preferred.

Yachtmaster Coastal: Motor - Option 1

Without RYA Coastal Skipper Practical certificate:

• 2 days as skipper on vessels of less than 24 meters

Note: No more than half of the required miles can be on vessels over 24 meters

Yachmaster Coastal: Motor – Option 2 A & B

  With RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate:

Can be used to enter OOW 3000GT program and modules

A. Mariners with Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate and with more than half of required sea service on vessels less than 24 meters

• 20 days on board
• 2 days as skipper on vessel less than 24 meters

B. Mariners with Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate and with more than half of required sea service on vessels greater than 24 meters

• 30 days on board

Yachtmaster Offshore: Motor  

• 50 days sea time overall on motor vessels
• 5 days in the command position on the vessel (as Master)
• 2500 nautical miles logged with half transiting through tidal waters and half on a vessel of less than 24 meters that is not a tender.
• 5 passages over 60 nautical miles, including 2 overnight and 2 in command (as Master) of vessel.        

Yachtmaster Ocean:

• Obtain Yeachmaster Offshore
• Complete the RYA astro/ocean shorebased theory #306
• Ocean passage of 600 nautical miles or more as captain or mate
• Complete oral exam with RYA examiner successfully

For Commercial Endorsement:

In addition to the SRC and First Aid (must have been taken within 5 years) you will need to obtain an MCA Certificate of Medical Fitness (ENG-1) as well as the Personal Survival Training (4 Modules of STCW 210) and the online Professional Practices & Responsibilities (PPR) Certificate. If you are planning to work commercially, you should simply add the STCW Basic Training Program, which will include the approved Personal Survival and First Aid automatically and will also allow your Yachtmaster CoC to have the STCW endorsement as well. Most boats internationally require this of all crew working commercially. We also recommend the Security Awareness or Designated Security (VPDSD) Course if you are working commercially as well. These are all separate fees from the Yachtmaster Course however MPT offers Package discounts, speak to an MPT RYA Specialist for more information and assistance. There is also a fee candidates will pay to the RYA for the commercial endorsement.

Written & Practical Exam Information:

The written exams are administered at MPT at the end of the shore-based theory segment of your program. They include all of the topics covered in the course. All of the shore-based courses and experience criteria must be fulfilled before the RYA Examiner will conduct the practical assessment. The final exam will be conducted by an independent and unbiased RYA Yachtmaster examiner and takes the form of an extensive oral and practical examination on a motor yacht. Candidates who have taken MPT's Yachtmaster course may use one of the MPT vessels for the exam at no additional fee. The practical exam will take an additional one-two day and is scheduled when the examiner is available and generally immediately after the course, weather permitting.  Once your eligibility has been reviewed (sea time and prerequisites met), the schedule for the practical examination is predicated on several things:

1)The weather as this is a practical underway examination 2)The availability of the RYA Examiner (this is not an MPT employee)

Examinations may need to be scheduled for additional days which may not be consecutive to the dates of the course.

Exam Subjects:

We will review with you the knowledge-based subjects during your shore-based theory week and also fine tune your boat handling skills during your practical course, but you should be familiar with the following areas when you join the class and proficient by the exam date. (Note if you are not already well versed in these subjects when you arrive, you are strongly encouraged to take the Essential Navigation (online course) as there is not sufficient time to cover the basics in the 2-week program. Ask about #333) 

• Knowledge of the International and Inland Rules of the Road.
• Safety. The candidate will be expected to know what safety equipment should be carried on board a yacht.
• Boat Handling, Maneuvering, Docking: Yachtmaster Coastal students will be expected to answer questions & demonstrate ability in simple situations only. Yachtmaster Offshore candidates are expected to demonstrate ability in more complex situations and will also be expected to show a higher level of expertise.
• General seamanship, including maintenance.
• Responsibilities of the skipper
• Navigation, Basic Weather 
• Radio Communication & Signaling
• Command presence, management and direction of crew.
• Essential Navigation (online course)

Practical Exam Fees:

The RYA Examination Fee for the initial examination will be paid by MPT as part of your course tuition. Additional RYA fees are paid by candidate if a subsequent examination is needed.

 If at the end of your course you wish to postpone the practical exam date, you are permitted to return for exam and RYA exam fee paid by MPT, within one calendar year, space permitting.

Additional Recommended or Required Courses:

• Essentials of Navigation (Online Pre-Course) #333
• First Aid & CPR #143 or Take STCW Basic Safety Training #141, 142, 143, 144
• SRC VHF Radio License #303 Required (offered Online) or GMDSS GOC #404
• RYA PPR (Professional Practices & Responsibility) #335 ONLINE COURSE
• MCA Approved Engine Course #440
• USCG Radar Course #148 & ARPA Course #150 or MCA Nav/Radar/ARPA Course #402

If you have three years of yacht service, speak to a career counselor about continuing straight through your OOW or Chief Mate 3000 GT program.

Required Materials

RECOMMEND PRE-STUDY: Essential Navigation online, course #333, COLREGS Study Apps or flashcard, and course notes. AVAILABLE IN MPT SHIPS STORE or bring with you the following: Pencil (mechanical or #2) Paper Chart Eraser (We recommend white- like magic rub or Staedtler), Navigation Tools (parallel rules/Portland plotter/triangles – your choice), Dividers (we recommend two- one as divider and one as compass), Calculator (we recommend the TI-30x), Hand Bearing Compass - optional though recommended (We recommend Weems & Plath #2004). Pick up at MPT when you register or when you check-in: Yachtmaster Shore based Training Manuals & Charts (provided by MPT).

11 day class in Fort Lauderdale

RECOMMENDED PRE-STUDY: Available at MPT Ships Store Complete Course Training DVD Flashcards AVAILABLE IN MPT SHIPS STORE OR BRING WITH YOU: Pencil (mechanical or #2) Paper Chart Eraser (We recommend white - like magic rub or staedtler) Navigation Tools (parallel rules/Portland plotter/triangles - your choice) Dividers (we recommend two - one as divider and one as compass) Calculator (we recommend the TI-30x) Hand Bearing Compass (We recommend Weems & Plath #2004) PICK UP AT SCHOOL WHEN YOU REGISTER OR WHEN YOU CHECK-IN: Yachtmaster Shorebased Training Manuals & Charts (provided by MPT)

Course Photos

Testimonials

Not suggestions. Thanks for letting me be your student! Alejandro, Friday August 2015 RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200

A bit more time would be nice! But Steve was an awesome instructor.Very easy to follow and very thorough. Arthur, Wednesday November 2013 RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200

1915 South Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, +1-954-525-1014 | +1-888-839-5025 (Toll Free)

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Favorite RYA Sailing Schools in USA, Canada and elsewhere

At NauticEd we have our list of Favorite RYA practical sailing training schools and we are sharing it with you here.

NauticEd is a provider of the RYA Day Skipper Theory course online to students worldwide. Technically, we are called an RYA shore-based training school. Once students have passed the RYA Day Skipper course online they can go to a practical on-the-water RYA school for training and assessment. If a passing grade is awarded, the student will gain the RYA Day Skipper certificate.

An RYA school can issue the International Certificate of Competence which is the United Nations created International Sailing License (the ICC).

They can issue the ICC in either of two ways.

(1*) A one-day assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills (pretty grueling and you’d better know your theory. We recommend you take and pass the NauticEd RYA Day Skipper Course OR the NauticEd Bareboat Charter Master Bundle of courses. Don’t wing it – you will fail.)

(2*) Do the 5-day on-the-water RYA Day Skipper practical course. A prerequisite of this is the NauticEd RYA Day Skipper online theory course. Once you pass the RYA Day Skipper Course online and complete the 5-day on-the-water training with a passing grade, you automatically qualify for the ICC.

We recommend the 5-day course. Why? Because you are guaranteed to enjoy it and learn some tips even if you are an old dog.

LIST OF RYA SCHOOLS

The full list of RYA schools

Here are our favorites

• Kingsland, Ontario: Topmast Maritime Training (1*) and (2*)
• Halifax, Nova Scotia: Discovery Sailing (2*) only
• Halifax, Nova Scotia: In Slocums Wake  (2*) only
• Charleston, South Carolina: Yachting Education  (1*) and (2*)

The Grenadines (Bequia Island)

• Sail Grenadines (2*) only
• On Deck (2*) only
• Lisbon: West Coast Sailing (1*) and (2*)
• Sibenik (Split): NCP & Mare (2*)
• Genoa: Just Sailing (2*) only

ICC or SLC?

If you are based in the USA or Canada, you will see there are limited options for gaining the ICC. In the USA, if you can get to Charleston, SC, then Mark with YachtingEducation.com is one of the best. For Canada, the three schools mentioned above are equally as good.

Otherwise, in North America, your best option for gaining a sailing license is probably the NauticEd SLC . There are many schools and the network of qualified instructor/assessors is growing.

The difference between the ICC and SLC is nothing in terms of its acceptability worldwide. The SLC is a simple process but you must be highly competent –  and you must have 50 days of sailing experience in your past history. The standards of competence for gaining the SLC is higher than the ICC.

My vision for NauticEd is to provide the highest quality sailing and boating education available - and deliver competence wherever sailors live and go.

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Comparing RYA, IYT & ASA Schemes

There are many different schemes you can follow to get certified to be on the water. The three more internationally accepted are the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), International Yacht Training (IYT) and the American Sailing Association (ASA). If you want to know more in detail about the RYA scheme, I recommend you read my previous post about it,  Understanding the RYA Scheme . To get a brief overview, I made this simple graphic to help you out.

Beginner Classes

Competent crew.

Competent crew is the unofficial introduction class. It’s a 5-day class that brings you up to the level where if a skipper is asking you to do something, you know how to do it. A lot of it is learning the names of the parts of the boat and the various processes you can encounter. To learn more  visit the  RYA’s website .

Try Sailing & Introductory Sailing Skills

Try Sailing is quite a basic course. It is a half-day on board that covers basic manoeuvres, rope handling and the points of sail. IYT goes more in depth here . The second portion is Introductory Sailing Skills. This 2 day course takes it a little further by adding some person overboard and some collision regulations. It should bring you to a level where you are comfortable crewing for a skipper.

Basic Keelboat Sailing

As with the two other schemes, the 101 course is meant to ease you into sailing. The instructor will go over parts of the boat, sail trim and buoyage. This is the course I did on Lake Champlain and had a great weekend doing so! The details are available here .

Intermediate Classes

Day skipper & coastal skipper.

I’ve covered the RYA scheme quite extensively on its own so to see that, click here . The important bit to know is that it is with a Day Skipper certificate that the RYA can give you an International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft (ICC). This certificate allows you to charter a boat on vacation and also gives a good start to being a proper skipper and being able to plan short passages. The Coastal Skipper allows to understand more the passage planning portion and the harder manoeuvres in close quarters.

Day Skipper & International Bareboat Skipper

The IYT Day Skipper is slightly more limited than the RYA one. It limits the boat you can skipper to 10m but it is slightly shorter. It is a 3 to 4 day course that gives a good introduction to planning a safe sail and basic boat checks. Otherwise, the two are quite similar.

The International Bareboat Skipper syllabus is quite similar to the Coastal Skipper. It certifies that the person can sail in coastal waters and knows how to manoeuvre a boat adequately. For the IYT, it is the first course that requires other certifications and a minimum sea time. The course pushes further on the boat checks, weather, tides and general regulations. For those requirements and more information, you can click here .

Basic Coastal Cruising & Bareboat Cruising

ASA uses their different certification levels to go towards bigger boats. At the 103 level, they determine you can properly control a 25′ to 35′ boat. At the 104 level, they judge you are competent to manoeuvre a 30′ to 45′ foot boat. After learning intermediate trimming, basic weather, navigation rules and anchoring in 103, you’ll be able to push these further in 104. The 104 syllabus also adds on provisioning, passage planning, and advanced sail trimming. The 103 syllabus can be found here and the 104 details are here .

Yachtmaster

The Yachtmaster level is the highest-level one can achieve on the recreational scale. The differences at the end are very slim but two schemes resemble each other more.

The three Yachtmasters

Same as the RYA, IYT only examines at this level, officially. Schools offer preparation classes that can be taken and will help iron out any wrinkles to give you the most chances of passing. The main difference in the three levels is the distance you are considered competent to be from a safe haven. At coastal, you can go up to 60 nautical miles, at offshore, up to 150 nautical miles and the ocean level has no limit. Extensive meteorology and celestial navigation can be expected. One of the bonuses from IYT is that they not only offer sail and power endorsements but also a catamaran endorsement. For more information, the best is to go to the source at the RYA or IYT .

4 Classes left

ASA offers classes until the end of the scheme. The last 4 classes push further for the length of the boat (up to 50′) and the content covered. Essentially, they all cover the same but it is more broken down in this scheme. The goal is that at the end of this scheme, you can sail oceans comfortably and plan appropriately.

I hope this helps clarify and create links between the different schemes. If you have any questions don’t be shy to go to the contact page and I will help you find the information you need.

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Jean-du-Sud

The ordinary tales of an extraordinary sailboat.

RYA YachtMaster and Sail Canada Cruising Programs: 11 Differences

If the RYA finds a better man overboard technique, it will teach it. Dave DeWolfe, RYA Instructor

The Royal Yachting Association is the British organization responsible for administering keelboat sailing instruction programs. These programs differ from those of Sail Canada because of their worldwide reputation and because it leads to a commercial endorsement. It is also an organization that is adapting to the sailing needs of sailors. Its YachtMaster program, comprising three levels (Coastal, Offshore and Ocean), is often referred to as the “gold standard” in terms of sailing skills.

I recently completed the YachtMaster Offshore preparation week, took the theory and practical exams and was awarded the certificate. Below, I discuss the eleven most striking differences with Sail Canada’s keelboat sailing program.

1- In Canada, the RYA is in English

In Canada, the few schools offering the RYA program are in British Columbia, Ontario and Nova Scotia. Training is therefore given in English. (There are, however, training centers in France and the Caribbean. It may be possible to take the course in French). Whether or not taking the course in English is a good idea depends largely on your command of the language of Shakespeare, but I will stress here that anyone with the ambition of sailing with a crew outside Quebec should master the basic vocabulary for manoeuvering a sailboat. We all know how special sailing vocabulary is, and this is just as true in English!

2- The Targets are Cruisers and Professionals

The YachtMaster program does not aim to train candidates for regattas. Instructors and Examiners are professional captains who must demonstrate five to eight years’ experience before they can teach. The preparation week is therefore rich in experience and geared to the needs of both yachtsmen and professionals. Notable differences are detailed below, but much more emphasis is placed on planning and executing sailing plans.

3- The Approach is Comprehensive

At Sail Canada, the course sequence alternates between theory and practice. You can take a basic sailing course without having to do any dead reckoning, for example. As a general rule, you must then take your theory course (navigation) to access the next level (intermediate, advanced).

At the RYA, the distinction between levels – Coastal, Offshore and Ocean – is based on experience: the theory for Coastal and Offshore is the same. It is also comprehensive: you have to learn chart navigation, electronic navigation, radar navigation, collision rules, weather and, above all, passage planning. (RYA also offers practical courses withouth theory (e.g. competent crew), but it is not within the YachMaster program.)

The level of difficulty of the theory courses is similar to that of Sail Canada’s intermediate and advanced navigation courses. The emphasis, however, is on rigorous mastery of the international rules of collision avoidance at sea . An obvious lack of understanding of light signals, collision avoidance rules and sound signals is a recipe for failure before you even get to the practical course.

For the Ocean level, things are slightly different: a mastery of celestial navigation and the demonstration of a successful offshore passage are required. At this level, exams last two hours and are designed to check that sextant handling is adequate, as are position calculations.

For the Offshore and Coastal courses, candidates must first take four theory exams. Two of these focus on passage planning, and one on collision avoidance rules. The last is general, ranging from tidal calculations to wind/current drift. Before candidates can take the practical preparation week, they must pass all four theory exams.

4- Electronic Navigation Skills Are Developed

I do not understand why Sail Canada’s program does not emphasize electronic navigation prior to the advanced course. “Tablet navigation” is the de facto way most professionals and boaters navigate. Why not teach them to use it intelligently?

The RYA teaches modern navigation techniques using modern instruments, including radar and common navigation software (OpenCPN, Navionics, etc.). They teach how to use waypoints to obtain fixes, how to use cross track error for difficult passage segments, and how to use the differences between course vector over ground and heading to navigate. This is extremely useful, especially when navigating in reduced visibility.

But a fair warning to all those who dislike navigation with paper charts: the preparation week for the exam (well, at least mine) is done without electronics, perhaps because dead reckoning is less well mastered by candidates. The RYA approach is aimed at modern use in navigation, but also at ensuring that candidates have an overall mastery of each of the navigation tools at hand.

5- The Emphasis is on Planning

Theoretical courses focus on two general skills: 1) how to plan passages quickly and 2) how to assess whether they should be executed. The aim is to assess risks, passage windows in areas with strong currents (or tides) and so on. Of course, the design of every dimension of a passage plan is covered: calculations of currents and tides, and calculations of courses to steer accounting for wind/current drifts. That said, they are only taught once and then taken for granted. It is when building passage plans that they come back to assess the conditions through which the plan should be executed.

6- The Tidal Calculations Are Based on the UK Graphs

The least useful part of the course is the section on tides. The “graphical” method of calculating tides, taken from UK tables (image below), is taught. When applicable, this is better than either the “rule of sixths” (or rule of twelfths) or the generic tables from tides.gc.ca (a “rule of eighths”), as it incorporates average historical deviations from a sine curve. These deviations are quite significant at the beginning and end of the tidal cycle. The example below shows a significant deviation between six hours before high tide and two and a half hours before low tide, particularly at high tide. By way of contrast, the tidal calculation approach recommended by Transport Canada is a conversion of a sine curve into a table and adapted to the tidal range of the cycle. It therefore neglects average historical deviations.

That said, the graphical representation is better suited to locations where there is only one type of tide. As this is not the case in most parts of Canada and the US, the graphical approach is ill-suited. However, for the sake of succeding the theory evaluation, this approach must be mastered.

7- The Preparation Week Is Tailored to Students

The Exam Preparationtake place over the course of a week, aboard an “A class” sailing yacht. The prerequisites for admission to the YachtMaster program are a minimum of 50 days at sea, a minimum of 3 days as captain, a minimum of 2500 MN sailed, a minimum of five passages of more than 60 MN, including at least one at night and one as captain. In other words, people arrive at the preparation week with a certain amount of experience… but also with defects accumulated over time.

It’s really in these prerequisites that the program sets itself apart, as the instructors and Examiners will evaluate your previous experience and determine what your preparation week should look like. It is thus important to understand that my preparation week was different from that of other candidates. The approach certainly differs from that advocated by Sail Canada, with a pre-established course syllabus, where everyone has to go through a list of course outline elements.

The general idea of the week is to identify and strengthen the candidates’ weak points. Overall, the weaknesses of the three people on board during my week were a lack of radar experience, a lack of dead reckoning experience, little or no sailing and night landings. As a result, we sailed the whole week without electronic navigation, and made multiple landings at night and under sail.

Other general techniques are also shown throughout the week, including crew overboard maneuvers. The techniques of the YachtMaster program differ from those taught by Sailing Canada.

8- Crew Overboard Techniques Are More Reliable

The RYA teaches the industry best practice. Based on our week’s preparation, the Crew overboard method can recover a crew in less than two minutes. The method requires less maneuvering than the figure 8 Sail Canada technique and is therefore less likely to lead to errors or confusion. When it comes to safety, a simpler approach means greater chances of success.

But above all, the technique make use of the engine! The techniques covered also has a non-motorized scenario, but the one mainly advocated is motorized.

By way of contrast, the Sail Canada method (beam, broadside tack, windward) takes time, requires more manoeuvers and does not use the maneuverability provided by the engine.

On this point, the YachtMaster program is very convincing: I see no good reason to use the technique taught by Sail Canada.

9 – The Practical Emphasis is on Attitude and on Boat Control

Instructors and Examiners will purposely put you in emergency or unplanned situations. The approach is often scenario-based, and we will be told on purpose that the engine is not working, or that there is an electrical problem on board. As an example, we were asked to navigate by dead reckoning, from the saloon (and without looking out of the portholes) to a given point on the chart, giving only instructions to the crew (who actually maneuver the yacht).

The central idea of these exercises is to assess whether candidates are still in control of themselves, the crew and the boat. Instructors and Examiners are more interested in assessing resilience and competence than first-time success. A guaranteed recipe for failure is to declare oneself unable to do a task, either immediately or after a few tries. The YachtMaster program seeks a demonstration of competence and mastery of the boat in all circumstances.

The difference with Sail Canada is conceptual and more nuanced. The RYA focuses on the ability to perform scenario-based tasks (“you take divers to point X, you only have charts, and you have to do it in under 30 minutes”) rather than teaching procedures (gybes, tacking, etc.).

10 – You Can Be Recommended to Wait Before Doing the Exam

Of course, if you do not have the prerequisites, you will not be able to register for either the course or the exam. The same goes for Sail Canada. That said, the RYA can also recommend that you do not take the exam after you have registered. If the instructor thinks you won’t pass the exam, he or she can tell you so.

This means that, although the exam does not begin on day one, you are being assesed from the first day of the preparation week. The instructors will assess whether or not you should take the exam, and if so, at what level (Coastal or Offshore). It is possible that at the end of the week, you will be recommended not to take the exam, or not to do the Offshore level. I suspect that this is where the drop-out rate is highest, meaning that the success rate of candidates who are recommended to take the exam is probably high.

11- Your Examiner Will Not Be Your Instructor

At Sail Canada, exams are standardized and corrected by your instructor. In the YachtMaster program, exams last 12 hours, are customized and done by an Examiner from another sailing school. The person who gives you the exam has not seen your syllabus for the week, and does not know you. He or she will make you do things that you have not necessarily seen during the week. The aim is to assess general skills. The approach seems to be to spend quickly on the elements for which you have a clear understanding/mastery and to put more time on the elements you understand/master less. This is evidenced by my exam, but as the video below suggests, it seems to be a general practice.

One candidate in my group had to take a longer quiz on collision avoidance rules at sea because he showed gaps in his knowledge of the rules. Another had to perform manoeuvers in confined spaces because he was considered less skilled at piloting. Another was not required to navigate at night. In short, the Examiner is trying to assess how critical are your weak points and spends less time on your strenghts.

The YachtMaster program can be commercially endorsed, which means that the certificate of competence is considered reliable enough to sail as a professional. It also has a solid international reputation. In doing so, the requirements are higher and different from those of Sailing Canada. The approach is one of quality control and development, rather than learning the basics. At the start of the YachtMaster program, it is assumed that you have the skills to handle a sailboat (“competent crew” or “elementary keelboat”). You will not learn these skills in this course.

The course costs around 4,000 CAD, i.e. around 3,500 CAD for the preparation week itself and 500 CAD for the exam. Given this price and the prerequisites, there are little younger candidates.

Personally, I found the additional difficulties required for this course very useful. If you take your sailboat out of Quebec, or if you sail internationally, I think it is crucial to manoeuver in English. I have also learned techniques I did not know before. That said, the thing that convinced me most about taking this course was its international credibility.

Given the scope of the course and the theoretical prerequisites, I do not think the course is for the faint-hearted. I started my study a month early, with a good knowledge of marine weather, collision avoidance and dead reckoning. I do not see how someone with a superficial grasp of these concepts could pass the theory and therefore the course. On the practical side, a greater plurality of approaches is tolerated. The main aim is to assess whether you are constantly in control of yourself, the crew and the boat.

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Learn to skipper a 34' sloop-rigged keelboat by day in light to moderate winds and sea conditions and basic sailing terminology, parts and functions, helm commands, basic sail trim, points of sail, buoyage, seamanship and safety including basic navigation rules to avoid collisions and hazards

Learn to skipper a 34' sloop-rigged keelboat by day and cruising sailboat terminology, basic boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, docking procedures, intermediate sail trim, navigation rules, basic coastal navigation, anchoring, weather forecast interpretation, safety and seamanship

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Choose from ASA, ISPA or Sail Canada Based in the scenic cruising grounds of the Gulf Islands, this 5 day, comprehensive course covers boat handling and safe seamanship practices as well as introducing the basics of coastal navigation. After departing our base at Port Sidney you'll spend five days on board a 34 - 40 ft sailboat, cruising and learning through some of the most spectacular waters in the world. You'll spend each night either at anchor under the stars or secured at a cozy marina.

ASA Program Basic Keelboat & Basic Coastal Cruising

Basic Keelboat - Demonstrated ability to skipper a sloop-rigged keelboat of approximately 20 to 27 feet in length by day in light to moderate winds and sea conditions. Knowledge of basic sailing terminology, parts and functions, helm commands, basic sail trim, points of sail, buoyage, seamanship and safety including basic navigation rules to avoid collisions and hazards. Auxiliary power operation is not required.

Basic Coastal Cruising - Demonstrated ability to skipper a sloop-rigged auxiliary powered (outboard or inboard engine) keelboat of approximately 25 to 35 feet length by day in moderate winds and sea conditions. Knowledge of cruising sailboat terminology, basic boat systems, auxiliary engine operation, docking procedures, intermediate sail trim, navigation rules, basic coastal navigation, anchoring, weather forecast interpretation, safety and seamanship.

ASA114 Cruising Catamaran Prerequisites:  Basic Keelboat (101) and Basic Coastal Cruising (103). The Bareboat Charter Standard (104) is also a prerequisite and can be attained either by itself prior to BBC Multihull (114) or in conjunction with BBC Multihull (114). In either case, all material in both standards (104 & 114) must be taught and tested before 114 can be awarded.

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Competent Crew - Certified to live aboard a sailing vessel in tidal waters as Competent Crew. In an emergency, be able to substitute as skipper. Competent to sail a vessel under 30 ft, where no navigational hazards exist, within 5 miles of safe harbor, during daylight hours only, in light to moderate wind condition.

Day Skipper - The holder is certified as the skipper of a live aboard sailing vessel, to be responsible for the safety of his/her vessel and crew, while day sailing in familiar waters, within 10 miles of safe harbor, during daylight, in moderate wind and sea conditions using basic navigational skills.

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Basic Crew - To be able to cruise safely in familiar waters as competent crew of a sloop rigged keelboat of 6 to 10 meters with an outboard or inboard motor in moderate wind and sea conditions by day..

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For those students looking for a holiday of a slightly more relaxed nature a Competent Crew standard has been developed to provide a sufficient level of knowledge to assist in the safe operation of a vessel. This 3 day Competent Crew course combines the Pacific Northwest's superb cruising grounds with its award winning coastal wine industry! Join certified sailing instructors and sommeliers for a course ripe with learning and adventure!

• Competent Crew Certified to live aboard a sailing vessel in tidal waters as Competent Crew. In an emergency, be able to substitute as skipper. Competent to sail a vessel under 30 ft, where no navigational hazards exist, within 5 miles of safe harbor, during daylight hours only, in light to moderate wind conditions

This course includes 3 night live aboard accommadation, instruction & course material, linens, towels, sleeping bags, foul weather gear, 3 yummy breakfasts and 2 festive dinners

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IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited

Master of Yachts 200GT

Find out About the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited

Find a Master of Yachts Unlimited Course

The IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited is an MCA-recognized commercial Master License for Yachts up to 200GT across all oceans. It is recognized by various flag states and port authorities around the world and meets the requirements for candidates working towards their MCA Officer of the watch (OOW Yachts 3000GT) and Chief Mate 3000 CoC.

Quick Links

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• View more information on the IYT website 

IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Certification

The IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Certificate qualifies you to work as:

• Master of 200-ton yachts, all oceans
• Chief Mate of 150-ton yachts up to 150 nautical miles offshore
• Chief Mate of 200-ton yachts, all oceans
• OOW (Officer of the Watch) on all oceans of a 500-ton yacht, all oceans

Master of Yachts Unlimited Prerequisites / Requirements:

• IYT Master of yachts limited certificate (Or an MCA stamped notice of Eligibility)or - MCA Master (Code Vessel) < 200GT - MCA OOW certificate - MCA stamped Notice of Eligibility (NOE) - Marshall Islands Master (STCW II/3) < 350GT / Chief Mate (STCW II/3 <500GT) - AMSA Master less than 35m Near Coastal (Master <35m NC)
• An ENG1 or other type of Seafarer medical certificate including an eyesight and color blindness check, less than 2 years old (must be within the expiration date of the given certificate if less than 2 years)
• Either two trips of 250 miles, or one trip of 500 miles out of sight of land.- For areas where this may be difficult, (i.e. the Mediterranean or Caribbean); this out of sight of land requirement can be satisfied 20 miles or more from a shoreline. It is expected that a passage plan be made for that voyage, which would subsequently be used in the course for review and debriefing purposes leading to improvements by the final theory exam.
• It is preferred that the passage(s) be carried out prior to the course being taken but it can be done afterward with extenuating circumstances). Please contact or view the IYT website for more information regarding this.

Master of Yachts Unlimited Theory Course Breakdown:

Course length and content covered:.

6 Days days of astronavigation & worldwide meteorology. Candidates must hold a thorough knowledge of all aspects of the subjects covered in the IYT Master Limited course.

Subjects covered include:

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• The PZX triangle
• The sextant
• Measurement of time
• Meridian altitudes
• Planet sights
• Starsight planning
• The pole star
• Moon sights
• Compass checking
• Satellite navigation systems
• Great circle sailing
• Meteorology
• Passage planning

IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Exam & Certificate of Competency

Apart from the above-mentioned prerequisites, qualifications, knowledge, and experience, candidates are required to do the following in order to attain an IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Certificate of Competency.

• A final written exam on the last day (6th) of the course. (3 hour written exam).
• The demonstration of practical sextant competencies including the taking of sun sights during the course.
• The submission of a formal plan for an ocean passage. Please read or contact the IYT or an IYT approved training school for more information regarding this.

IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Course Providers:

Brazil Sao Paulo

Canada Toronto

France Cannes Paris

Saint Maarten

South Africa Cape Town Durban Sweden Stockholm

Turkey Mugla

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An RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence is often the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers.

Well known and highly respected worldwide, this qualification proves your experience and competence as a skipper. Unlike the other courses in our Caribbean RYA cruising program, there is no formal training to complete in order to become an RYA Yachtmaster. Grenada Bluewater Sailing highly recommends attending the Yachtmaster Preparation course to fine tune your sailing skills and focus your knowledge base.

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore?

The RYA Yachtmaster Coastal means that you have knowledge needed to skipper a yacht on coastal cruises. You do not necessarily have the experience needed to undertake longer passages.

The RYA Yachtmaster Offshore deems you competent to skipper a cruising yacht on any passage during which the yacht is no more than 150 miles from harbour. The RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence can be commercially endorsed in order to work on board British flagged vessels, subject to the MCA’s codes of practice for small commercial vessels. A number of additional training courses and medical fitness certificates are required to be eligible for a commercial endorsement.

Many RYA Yachtmaster candidates choose to complete the Yachtmaster Preparation course for the benefit of tailor-made Caribbean sailing tuition prior to the examination. Provided that you have sufficient experience and sea time, you are then put forward as a candidate for the Yachtmaster exam on board Chao Lay .

Click here for helpful information from the RYA on passing your exam .

RYA Yachtmaster Mile Building Charters

If you do not have the required experience and sea time, we would recommend booking on one of our Grenada Bluewater Sailing mile building cruises . We offer these exciting and adventurous trips throughout the year in the Caribbean – please check our schedule for upcoming events .

Working with a Yachtmaster Coastal Certificate

A commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Coastal Certificate of Competence will enable you to skipper vessels up to 24 metres in length, operating in category 3,4,5, and 6 waters – up to 20 miles from a safe haven.

Working with a Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate

A commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence will enable you to work as a Master of commercial vessels of up to 200gt in category 1 to 6 waters – that is up to 150 miles from a safe haven.

This Certificate of Competence can used commercially in its own right, or as a pre-requisite for the MCA’s Officer of the Watch qualification, which enables you to work worldwide on vessels of up to 3000gt.

Working with a Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate

A commercially endorsed Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence will enable you to work worldwide as a Master of commercial vessels of up to 200gt.

This Certificate of Competence can be used commercially in its own right. It is also a pre-requisite for the MCA’s Chief Mate, Master 500 and Master 3000 qualifications.

Grenada – Ideal Caribbean Sailing

Grenada and the Grenadines , located in the windward islands of the Caribbean Sea, is the perfect location to complete this tuition offering tidal conditions and some of the most beautiful scenery in the Caribbean.

Book your RYA Yachtmaster Preparation course today and achieve your professional dreams!

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Funding charts the course for Phase 2 of Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service

From: Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada

News release

The Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service project will enter its second phase, after a combined investment of nearly $260 million from the federal government, the government of Nova Scotia, and the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Bedford, Nova Scotia, March 4, 2024 — The Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service project will enter its second phase, after a combined investment of nearly $260 million from the federal government, the government of Nova Scotia, and the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Announced by MP Lena Metlege Diab, MP Andy Fillmore, Minister Timothy Halman, and Councillor Tim Outhit, this project will transition from the planning of the Mill Cove Ferry route to Phase 2 , which will focus on the design and construction of the terminals and procurement of ferries.  

Phase 2 of the project entails the design and construction of two state-of-the-art net-zero ferry terminals: the Mill Cove ferry terminal, and the replacement of the aging Halifax Ferry Terminal with a new, contemporary facility. It also includes the acquisition of five high-speed, zero-emission electric ferries, the establishment of a cutting-edge maintenance facility, and the construction of a bridge spanning the Bedford Highway over an existing CN rail line. The bridge will enhance the region’s active transportation infrastructure and provide a direct connection capable of accommodating buses, vehicles, and an active transportation path to the Mill Cove Ferry Terminal.

The Mill Cove Ferry Service is an integral component of the Halifax Regional Municipality’s Rapid Transit Strategy and Integrated Mobility Plan. It contributes to Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act , supporting the region’s mandate to advance environmental innovations, and to the Municipality’s HalifACT 2050 initiative, working towards the comprehensive decarbonization of transportation and municipal operations.

The federal government’s investment in public transit will help make communities more inclusive and improve the quality of life for users of these services by making it easier for them to get around and stay connected.

“Today's announcement marks a significant milestone in our commitment to helping Nova Scotians get where they need to go quickly and sustainably. By investing in state-of-the-art net-zero ferry terminals and zero-emission electric ferries, we're not just enhancing connectivity; we're paving the way for a cleaner, greener future. The Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service is a direct response to the priorities that the people of Halifax West have raised with me. It’s going to get more people out of traffic and put less pollution into our air.” Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

"Our investment in this project shows our commitment to building sustainable, connected communities where people have a variety of accessible, affordable, and green transit options to get where they're going. It will reduce emissions, reduce traffic congestion, and boost economic activity across our municipality." Andy Fillmore, Member of Parliament for Halifax

“The launch of Phase 2 of the Halifax Transit Mill Cove Ferry Service underscores our dedication to fostering sustainable development and enhancing connectivity within our diverse region. Recognizing that many in my riding have to drive into the city, this investment will help the rural families reduce cost and emissions. By investing in this transformative project, we're not just making transportation easier; we're also helping to stimulate economic growth, reduce environmental impact, and foster a more inclusive and resilient community in Sackville‒Preston‒Chezzetcook.” Darrell Samson, Member of Parliament for Sackville‒Preston‒Chezzetcook

The Dartmouth-Halifax ferry is the oldest saltwater ferry service in Canada, and once this plan is fully implemented, it will be the most modern! Zero-emission electric ferries and the new ferry route will better link and enhance the livability of our communities. Darren Fisher, Member of Parliament for Dartmouth-Cole Harbour

“This project will reduce road traffic in the area and help us plan for future population growth. The new ferry route will also encourage people to use public transportation and help us meet our climate change goals by using fast zero-emission electric ferries.” The Honourable Timothy Halman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change for Nova Scotia, on behalf of Public Works Minister Kim Masland

“With the growth we are continuing to see, so is the need to make sustainable transportation competitive with personal vehicles. Not only will this improved ferry service help people get around faster, it will also promote continuous growth surrounding the terminal and establish a consistent community hub.” Mike Savage, Mayor of the Halifax Regional Municipality

Quick facts

The federal government is investing $155,686,984 through the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Nova Scotia is investing $65,000,000 and the Halifax Regional Municipality is contributing $38,974,016.

Including today’s announcement, 9 infrastructure projects under the Public Transit Infrastructure Stream have been announced in Nova Scotia, with a total federal contribution of more than $220 million and a total provincial contribution of over $120 million. 

The federal government is investing billions of dollars to provide predictable federal public transit funding which will be available to support reliable, fast, affordable, and clean public transit solutions beginning in 2026-2027. 

Since 2015, the federal government has announced an unprecedented investment of over $30 billion in thousands of transit projects in communities across the country.

Under the Investing in Canada Plan, the federal government is investing more than $180 billion over 12 years in public transit projects, green infrastructure, social infrastructure, trade and transportation routes, and Canada’s rural and northern communities.

Infrastructure Canada helps address complex challenges that Canadians face every day—ranging from the rapid growth of our cities, to climate change, to environmental threats to our water and land.

The funding announced today builds on the federal government's work through the Atlantic Growth Strategy to create well-paying middle-class jobs, strengthen local economies, and build inclusive communities.

Federal funding is conditional on fulfilling all requirements related to consultation with Indigenous groups and environmental assessment obligations.

Associated links

• Investing in Canada: Canada’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan
• Public Transit Infrastructure Stream
• Federal infrastructure investments in Nova Scotia
• Strengthened Climate Plan
• Nova Scotia’s Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act
• HalifACT 2050

For more information (media only), please contact:

Micaal Ahmed Communications Manager Office of the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities 343-598-3920 [email protected]

Media Relations Infrastructure Canada 613-960-9251 Toll free: 1-877-250-7154 Email: [email protected] Follow us on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn Web: Infrastructure Canada

Gary Andrea Communications Advisor Nova Scotia Department of Public Works 902-456-6196 [email protected]

Brynn Budden Public Affairs Advisor Halifax Regional Municipality 902-223-5167 [email protected]

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