yachtmaster course canada

Renew Your Certificate

Recreational courses, superyacht courses, choose your location.

There is an IYT school on six continents. Begin training in the Mediterranean and finish in the Caribbean. Wherever you choose to be! IYT’s unique modular approach to yacht training has allowed the successful establishment of global partner schools offering a broad range of recreational and professional courses.

North America

South America

Learn to Sail

Become A Partner School

• Upgrade Your School

Government & Organization Approvals

• Recreational
• Privacy Policy & Terms Of Use
• Become a Partner School
• Register with IYT
• Find a School
• IYT E-Learning
• Certificate Renewal & Replacement
• Get Certified
• Recreational Training Course Progression
• IYT Passport
• Crossover Opportunities
• Course Progression
• Course Progression Interior
• Dive Boat Training
• Forms And Docs
• Instructor Training
• Personal Watercraft Operator
• Dinghy Sailing Programme
• IYT Try Sailing
• IYT Introductory Sailing Skills
• IYT Day Skipper / Crew Sail
• International Crew
• International Flotilla Skipper
• International Bareboat Skipper
• International Flotilla Skipper Sail – Catamaran
• International Bareboat Skipper Sail – Catamaran
• International Certificate of Competency (ICC Certificate)
• Powerboat Skipper
• Yachtmaster Coastal (Power or Sail)
• Yachtmaster Coastal Sail – Catamaran
• Yachtmaster Offshore (Power or Sail)
• Yachtmaster Offshore Sail – Catamaran
• Yachtmaster Ocean
• Patron de Yates (Yachtmaster Coastal Spanish edition)
• Marine Communications (VHF-SRC)
• Small Powerboat and Rib Master (MCA Recognised)
• IYT Commercial Tender License Course
• Weather Master
• Navigation Master
• Master of Yachts Coastal/Mate 200 Tons (Power or Sail)
• Master of Yachts Limited (Power or Sail)
• Master of Yachts Unlimited
• Superyacht Chef
• Superyacht Deck Crew Course
• Introduction to Yacht Marine Engineering
• Superyacht Hospitality Training
• Boat Engineer Course (SCV Code for Vessels Operating in the Caribbean)
• IYT-MSWI BoatMaster Course
• Become An IYT School
• Find A School
• Course Levels
• Instructor Qualifications
• Vessel Requirements
• Vessel and Facility Requirements
• Unauthorised Schools and Other Entities
• Shipping & Delivery
• Government Approvals

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

• Master of Yachts Unlimited Certification
• IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Requirements
• Theory Course Breakdown
• IYT Master of Yachts Limited Theory
• IYT Master of Yachts Limited Examination
• Find an IYT Master of Yachts Limited Training Provider
• 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

Username or Email Address *

Remember me Lost your password?

Username or Email

Get New Password

Free Navathome Diesel Engine course with RYA Day Skipper, Coastal Yachtmaster & Ocean theory online courses!

• Where Do I Start ?
• RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship
• RYA Day Skipper
• RYA Coastal Yachtmaster
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean
• Fastrack To RYA Coastal Yachtmaster
• RYA CEVNI Test
• Navathome Basic Training
• Navathome Diesel Engine Course
• Navathome ICC Theory Course
• Upgrade From Navathome ICC to RYA Day Skipper
• Navathome.com Mobile Phone App
• Book A Course
• Vouchers & Gifts
• Extend Your Course
• Ways To Pay
• Other Payments

Welcome to Navathome

Join The Leading RYA Online Training School With More Than 20,000 Students

Get Instant Access To All Of Our Courses

FIND OUT MORE

Navathome Basic Theory Course

Learn The Basics In Boating and Navigating

RYA Day Skipper theory

Start Your RYA Journey and Learn How To Navigate With Confidence Includes a free diesel engine course

RYA Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster

Enhance Your Knowledge of Navigation & Passage Planning Includes a free diesel engine course

CHOOSE YOUR COURSE

All courses are completed online, study at your own pace, from anywhere in the world.

Day Skipper

• Includes a free diesel engine course
• No Previous Experience Necessary
• Learn Basic Navigation & Seamanship

Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster

• Knowledge To Day Skipper Theory Level Required
• Enhance Your Knowledge of Navigation & Passage Planning

Yachtmaster Ocean

• Knowledge to Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory Level Required
• The Ultimate In Navigation

Fastrack to RYA Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster

• Formal Theory Qualifications Necessary
• Complete Day Skipper Revision and Coastal Yachtmaster Theory in one course

MORE THAN JUST NUMBERS ...

Years experience

TrustPilot reviews

Hours studied online

WHAT OUR STUDENTS ARE SAYING ...

With over 2,500 5 Star Reviews on TrustPilot, it was hard to narrow it down.

customer Carolyn

Great Course

Day skipper theory course was very good - well explained and clear. There was help on hand when needed but working it out for yourself was great instruction in itself! I would certainly do another course with Navathome and would recommend it to others.

Comprehensive course with helpful feedback

I recently took the Coastal/Yachtmaster theory course with Navathome, and happily I passed. There is a great deal of information to cover, and trying to fit this round a day job meant I needed an extension to the time to go through the course, but they kindly granted me this, and provided helpful and constructive feedback at every point. The exam itself probably needs several days, especially if you are as slow at plotting fixes as I am. Think of a number and double it is useful in terms of time needed. The final paper is really an all-day job, so make sure to allow yourself a clear block of time when you can drop everything else and give it your undivided attention. Overall, this has been a thoroughly enjoyable learning experience, and I now feel far more confident that I have decent knowledge to back up the practicalities of sailing.

Navathome Day Skipper Theory

Just completed and passed the RYA Day Skipper Theory course with Navathome. It was a really great experience and I was pleased to discover that I am still capable of learning lots of new things. The content is excellent at delivered at your own pace so you can go back over things that you don't understand as many times as you want.

Tom, Cardiff

Well laid out lessons/resources

Well laid out lessons/resources. Excellent practice questions covering all scenarios. Instant feedback. Very helpful and patient instructors!!! Thank you All at Navathome

The day skipper theory course from…

The day skipper theory course from Navathome is really good. It is well laid out and easy to follow. It is simple to see your progress. The website works very well, I didn’t have any issues with it. I didn’t need to ask many questions, as the online course is so well structured, but when I did they were answered quickly and clearly.

Graham Foster

Comprehensive and high quality on line learning

A very comprehensive course giving time to complete all the exercises at your own pace, build confidence and commit everything to long term memory. I found this far better than creaming everything in over several weekends but be warned this is not the easy option. Fortunately great instructors available when required and instant feedback aids learning. Highly recommended.

Great course

Great course, super concise and well structured. I was able to sail through my practical assessment without any issues. (Dayskipper and Diesel Engine)

One of the best online courses ever!

One of the best online courses I’ve done, in any field. A great combination of text, diagrams, videos/animations, use of practical and physical components (charts, books, almanacs), quizzes, tests and full-on assessments. And there is always help from real people, who care about getting you where you want to be.

Very nice and helpful instructors

well structured course, with explanations for everyone. the instructors who are there for the student, helping him whenever he needs it.

Steve SP REPAIRS

Great Day skipper theory course fit in with my spare time.

Working so many hours I was able to fit the course in around my spare time.. the lessons were great and explained well with videos and graphics. The language was straightforward and although required some good concentration at times it was made even easier with how quick the reply to email questions would be.. I mean, literally a few minutes! This is a real professional set up with a real family/ kind feeling and atmosphere. Obviously you never meet the teachers apart from email but you can get a good sense that NavAtHome.com want you to pass vs just doing their jobs.. thank you NavAtHome.com, Jackie, Salomon and others that came back to my questions over the last months, look forward to doing the coastal course next year!

A very enjoyable course to do

The course was very easy to navigate and friendly to do. There are a few typos, but nothing to make anything ambiguous. I restarted the course this year after having to suspend doing it when I started caring for my mother a few years ago. The staff couldn't have been more helpful. I certainly will do another course in the future if I think it necessary for my level of sailing.

WHY NAVATHOME ?

Full support to pass, multi device support, highest rated school.

EXPERT RYA INSTRUCTORS

Fully animated lessons, group discounts, exceeds expectations, 6 months to complete with lifetime access to revision material.

Get 6 months initial access to complete the course, which may be extended, if required. After completing the course, you will receive lifetime access to our Revision Material to ensure you maintain the skills and knowledge you have learnt with us.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Our goal is to assist you by addressing common questions and providing valuable information about our courses and services. If you’re unable to find the specific answer you’re seeking, we encourage you to reach out to our dedicated team. We are always ready to provide further assistance and support.

NEED TO CONTACT US?

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)

Site map | privacy notice | cookie policy | accessibility notice, 1915 south andrews avenue, fort lauderdale, fl 33316 +1-954-525-1014 +1-888-839-5025 (toll free).

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.

• Next Paper Charts: A Look at Five Countries
• Previous Three Great Videos on Fiberglass

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Two Equations For Celestial Navigation

Repowering An Alberg 30: Final Remarks

Where Were We?

We’re Live

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

Register your interest

• First name *
• Last name *
• How did you hear about UKSA? * –None– Cowes Harbour Handbook Event Facebook General Knowledge Google Ads Instagram Outdoor collateral Press Referral RYA Dinghy Show School trip Solent Handbook & Directory Southampton Boat Show The British Boat Owners Directory Website
• General notes
• Opt-in to receive course information and relevant offers
• Accept Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions .
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

You may also be interested in

Need help finding the right course for you?

Speak to an advisor on +44 (0)1983 203001 or email us

• Catamaran Certification

Rates subject to 5% GST+ insurance.

Register NOW!

7 day live aboard accommodation, instruction, towels, pillows, sleeping bags, foul weather gear and 6 hearty breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 6 dinners

Catamaran Certification Courses

Choose from asa or  sail canada.

The ultimate cruising catamaran course  7 day  course, designed for the novice, chartering client migrating from Mon-hull sailing and the potential new catamaran owner. This program teaches you the basic of sailing followed by more advanced skills including a night sail, all while aboard a catamaran. All the topics of our well developed catamaran course are thoroughly reviewed with 4 candidates over the 7 days.  This includes handing larges sails, docking a large vessel in wind, features of a well-equipped vessel and flying a cruising spinnakar , practical navigation planning and constant review. The ownership program is reviewed for our ATG and Yacht management here in Canada.

This course touches on the basics and continues on to more advanced levels of anchoring, sail trim, use of a cruising chute, heavy weather tactics, cruise planning, navigation and night passages.  Build your skills and confidence on this challenging  program and includes the development of a watch system for an extended night passage, MOB drills at night, performance sail trim, spinnaker handling, and the use of electronic aids including many applications appropriate to offshore weather-window planning for navigation are but a few skills which will be covered on this extended cruise which will take you to wherever the wind blows.

Knowledge of short-term passage planning, offshore vessel preparation, sail management, offshore first aid, watch-keeping, emergency procedures, abandon ship protocols, safety and seamanship are covered in on the deliveries of our Catamarans and Mono-hulls to PNW through the panama Canal.

ASA114  Catamaran Cruising

Prerequisites:  Advanced Skipper, Coastal navigation, VHF radio certificate; First Aid Certificate; and CPR certification. Completing the Advanced Navigation Standard is highly recommended. A minimum of four participants is required for this course

Description: Able to skipper an auxiliary-powered sailing cruising catamaran of approximately 30 to 45 feet in length during a multi-day liveaboard cruise upon inland or coastal waters in moderate to heavy winds (up to 30 knots) and sea conditions. Knowledge of catamaran structure, components and features, performance under sail and power, boat systems, seamanship and safety, heavy weather operation, and emergency response.

Groups of 4 or more can pick their dates!

Course Dates : Please confirm dates via email

Reservation requests and information

This program runs mostly during.

MAY, JUNE, SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 

Private courses welcome

Boat Charters Vancouver Island

Looking for our 14 day Around Vancouver Island course?

Check out Adventure Sailing.

Expand your skills! Join us for a RACE!

NEWSLETTER SIGN UP

Get the latest arrivals and offers by email. Join our Mailing List

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

#101-9776 Fourth Street Sidney, BC Canada V8L 2Z1

Phone : (250) 656-7070    Email : [email protected]

Made with by Island Cruising

• Corporate Sailing
• Charter Rates
• Prepare for Charter
• Specials & Discounts
• Yacht Deliveries
• Yachts on Special
• Reservations
• Certification Options
• Sail – Day Skipper
• Sail – Bareboat Charter
• Sail – Navigation
• Sail – Bareboat Charter Coastal
• Sail – Offshore
• Sail – Offshore Ocean – YachtMaster
• Course Dates
• Power – Introduction
• Power – Advanced
• Power – Navigation
• Weekend Sailing
• Course Rates
• Endorsements
• Private courses – Boating skills
• Adventure Sailing
• Boat card *online
• Sailing Career
• San Juan Route
• Sunshine Route
• Desolation Route
• Sidney to Desolation Sound 10 Days
• Desolation Sound
• Getting Here
• Marina Info
• Sidney Amenities
• Comox Amenities
• Yacht Management
• Ownership Programs
• Our Yacht Sales
• Boating Careers
• The Company
• Testimonials

Vancouver Island Yacht Charters

• Charter Search
• Boat Type Catamaran Sail Power
• Cabins 1 2 3 4 5
• Weekly Price From Less than 3,000 More than 3,000 0 - 3,000 3,001 - 15,000 15,001 - 30,000 30,001 - 50,000 50,001 - 100,000 100,001 - 250,000 > 250,000 -->
• View Favourites (0)

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

• Cruising Area
• Our Vessels
• Charter Rates
• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Data Request
• Sailing School
• Yacht Management
• Job Opportunities
• Instructor Intranet

Nanaimo Yacht Charters & Sailing School Ltd. 1690 Stewart Ave Nanaimo BC, Canada V9S 4E1 Email: [email protected]

© 2007-2024 Nanaimo Yacht Charters.

Building Business Online

• First Name: *
• Last Name: *
• Email Address: *
• We will use the data you submit to fulfil your request. Privacy Policy.
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

• 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...

Caribbean Sailing School & RYA Training Centre

• RYA Instructors
• Sailing Yacht
• Grenada and the Grenadines
• Testimonials
• RYA Start Yachting
• RYA Competent Crew
• RYA Day Skipper
• RYA Coastal Skipper

RYA Yachtmaster Preparation

Rya yachtmaster.

• Mile Building Sailing Charters
• International Certificate of Competence
• RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship
• RYA Day Skipper Theory
• RYA Coastal Skipper Theory / Yachtmaster Offshore
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory
• RYA Specialist Short Courses
• RYA Online Theory Courses
• RYA Start Powerboating Level 1
• RYA Powerboat Handling Level 2
• Course Schedule
• How To Get To Grenada
• Useful Links
• Caribbean Charters & Regattas
• Registration Form

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!

RYA Yachtmaster Prep and Exams

Client:     Advanced Sailors wanting the coveted RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore certificate of competence.

Dates:     Two prep/exam sessions available in 2023  September 4-9 and September 11-16.

Info:      Five day live aboard exam preparation week, followed by 2 days of exams.

Instructor:  Dave DeWolfe

Prep Details

We offer RYA Yachtmaster Exam preparation on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, the home waters of the schooner ‘Bluenose’. All courses are conducted on the 35′ sloop ‘Michaela’, a centre cockpit Swedish built Hallberg-Rassy.

For information on RYA Training click here.

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Prep Week and Exams

An 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 courses in the cruising programme, there is no formal training to complete in order to become a Yachtmaster. Instead, provided that you have sufficient experience and seatime, you can put yourself forward for an exam to test your skills and knowledge.

We offer customized tutoring to identify your strengths and weaknesses very early during the prep and then work to set you up for success for the examinations.

Duration 5 days, 4 nights

Material provided  The Complete Yachtmaster: Sailing, Seamanship and Navigation for the Modern Yacht Skipper by Tom Cunliffe, or RYA Yachtmaster Handbook by James Stevens

Student:Instructor Ratio 3

How to Pass

RYA Certificates of Competence are some of the most useful and credible of all yachting qualifications. They thoroughly test the skipper’s ability, and can therefore appear daunting to potential candidates. But well-prepared skippers with the right experience needn’t worry. With practice and preparation, you should be able to relax sufficiently to let your skills shine through any exam nerves.

This guide will help prepare you, whether you are taking the Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore exam.

Yachtmaster Coastal and Yachmaster Offshore – What’s the Difference?

The definition of a Yachtmaster is: ‘A yachtsman or woman competent to skipper a cruising yacht on any passage that can be completed without the use of astronavigation’.

Yachtmasters should be able to enter any well-charted harbour for the first time, with sufficient depth, by day or night.

A Yachtmaster Coastal has ‘the knowledge needed to skipper a yacht on coastal cruises, but does not necessarily have the experience needed to undertake longer passages’.

In other words, the theory is the same for both, but less practical experience and skill is required for the Yachtmaster Coastal exam.

Pre-exam Experience

As with any exam, the more practice you have beforehand, the more confident you will feel. Before your exam, be more adventurous than the usual weekend trip to your favourite anchorage. Enter some new harbours to refine your pilotage. Attempt the occasional night entry and be aware of the problems.

There is no requirement for you to attend an RYA course before your exam. However, it is often worth receiving some tuition, if only to find out your  strengths and weaknesses. Many centres offer an exam preparation service.

What Happens During an Exam?

Your RYA examiner will meet you onboard and talk you through the plan for the day. They understand that you could be nervous and will do their best to allay your fears and make sure you are clear about what they want you to do. They are there to find out what you can do, rather than pick holes.

You will be asked to undertake a short passage, but you may have to plan a longer one. In general, you should skipper the yacht in your normal style. If this means putting the kettle on every half hour, then do it!

You must know your position reasonably accurately throughout the exam, but don’t make the mistake of being so busy plotting fixes that you forget to look around you. Often, a quick glance on deck will confirm your position from a buoy or transit.

Make sure you know how to use a GPS, but there is no need to over-navigate.

You will usually be given practical problems involving tidal streams and heights. Make life easy for yourself and look them up beforehand – it’s not cheating. Practice a few tidal calculations so you are happy with the methods you are going to use.

Boat Handling

You need to know how your boat will react, its turning circle and any predictable quirks to its handling. There will be some close quarters manoeuvring, usually in a harbour, to demonstrate your skills at berthing and leaving pontoons, piles or moorings. Sailing yachts will complete this section under power, but make sure you practice manoeuvring under sail too, picking up mooring buoys and short tacking.

Your examiner isn’t looking for first-time-every-time success, but you will need to demonstrate competence and a good understanding of how the boat reacts at slow speed. Don’t hesitate to change sails or reef, if you think it is necessary for the task.

Experience in a variety of conditions will be your biggest help in these situations.

Man Overboard

Exams almost always include a man overboard recovery exercise. The multitude of methods for this can be confusing, but we coach you in what is currently best practices, before the exam, both under sail and under power.However it’s done, you must end up with the yacht stopped next to the man in the water. during the exam you may (or may not) have the engine available.

Make sure you understand and follow safety procedures, and give a safety brief. If you decide that harnesses should be worn at night, take your own advice.

Meteorology

Listen to the forecast before your exam and be prepared for questions about the current weather and how this might affect a passage plan. Understand how weather systems influence sea conditions and how to plan based on this knowledge. The type of boat and strengths of your crew can have a bearing on decisions based on the weather, so your examiner may ask you to consider various possibilities. There is rarely a definitive answer, so it is your informed opinions that are required.

Skippering Ability

This is where your experience and knowledge will really show. Whether you are fully in command of the yacht is the most important assessment that your examiner will make.

A good skipper leads the crew and communicates with them, making sure they understand what is going on and listening to them when they have something to say. They do not shout a stream of commands, leaving their crew in a quivering mess. Quiet competence instils confidence, helping your crew feel safe in the knowledge that the right decisions are being made.

So, are you ready for your exam?

Why take the exam?

• The RYA Yachtmaster standard is the ‘gold standard’ for yacht training around the world and demands a high level of skill and knowledge.• It is a great benchmark of your years of sailing and commitment to the sport of yacht sailing. Many of us take great pride in accomplishing the Yachtmaster standard; demonstrating a culmination of our sailing, boat handling, navigational, boat management and seamanship skills.

• Should you receive the Yachtmaster Certificate, you are eligible to have your certificate commercially endorsed. This endorsed certificate is the recognized professional yacht skippering ticket in Australia, New Zealand, the Caribbean, UK and Europe.

• Should you wish to join the growing yacht training industry, a commercially endorsed Yachtmaster certificate is the minimum entry requirement to become an RYA Cruising Instructor within an RYA school anywhere in the world.

Exam Pre-requisites

1. SEA-TIME – Minimum of 50 days, 2,500 miles including at least 5 passages over 60 miles measured along the rhumb line from the port of departure to the destination, acting as skipper for at least two of these passages and including two which have involved overnight passages. 5 days experience as skipper. At least half this mileage and passages must be in tidal waters. All qualifying sea-time must be within 10 years prior to the exam.  Please be advised this is an absolute minimum requirement to be examined!

2. VHF – ROC (M) with DSC or higher

3. Valid First Aid and CPR qualification – CPR within one year.  First aid course must be 8 hours or longer.

Commercial Endorsement

The following are not pre-requisites to the exam but are additional requirements should you wish to have your certificate commercially endorsed:

1. Transport Canada Medical certificate

A list of Designated Marine Medical Examiners in Canada

2. Sea Survival Course The recommended minimum level of safety training is the MED A1/A2. However to ensure recognition internationally we recommend you take the STCW Basic Safety offered at all Marine training institutions across Canada.

3. The Professional Practices and Responsibilities on-line course – you can take that with us.  Online, and priced at $70.00.

Sample Joining Instructions

Yachtmaster Prep joining instructions and course notes

Fees and booking

Fees and booking.

Price $2295.00 .

The above price covers the cost of specialized tutoring from a current RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Instructor/ Examiner.  The examiner for the exam is a different person.  The exam fee is separate and is paid to RYA. It is about $380 for the Yachtmaster Coastal Exam, and about $425 for the Yachtmaster Offshore Exam.

Request more Information

Register for the course

If you need a room before and after the course, we have negotiated a special Discovery Sailing room rate for your convenience.   If you would like to book a room using our Discovery rate (20% discount), please call or email Jeff Green at 902-627-3361 or at [email protected] .

“I liked the practical hands-on approach to each problem couples with the extensive experience of the instructor”

Very knowledgeable and encouraging Instructor and Examiner Opportunity to learn and practice new techniques Better practices, techniques, record keeping demonstrated

Superyacht Training: General Courses

Add a Training Centre

Courses for yacht crew such as medical, safety, security, communication, etc.

Superyacht Courses

• Superyacht courses   (45)
• Superyacht packages   (23)

View all countries

Harbourfront Centre Sailing and Powerboating

Ontario, Canada

Harbourfront Centre Sailing and Powerboating is an internationally recognized Sail Canada ‘Centre of Excellence in Training’ Facility, offering practical, on-water experience. We offer a wide range of courses, from beginner to IYT. We teach dinghy, keelboat and powerboat courses, marine licensing, including ICC licenses, Coastal and Celestial Navigation, and International Yachtmaster Certification.

Courses are held in: Canada

More details

Email address:

Remember me Forgotten password?

Password Reset

Enter your email address and we will email you a password reset link.

Email address:

Advertisement

Fairmont jasper park lodge reported to have survived horrifying wildfire in canada, share this article.

A massive wildfire that rushed into Jasper in Alberta, Canada, has left much of the town in ruins. Local news outlets reported that 30 to 50 percent of structures have burned as 300-foot-plus walls of flames poured across the mountainous landscape Wednesday and Thursday. Nearby Jasper National Park likewise suffered extensive damage.

The area is also home to the historic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and its golf course, which opened in 1925 with a layout by famed Canadian designer Stanley Thompson. The course is rated among the best classic courses in the country.

The lodge was evacuated as the fires approached, but after many anxious hours it appears the lodge and course escaped most of the damage so far, as firefighters are still combating the inferno.

The lodge posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Thursday evening that the hotel did incur fire damage, but most of the lodge’s structures had so far remained intact, including the main lodge. While it will take time to assess all the damage around the lodge, its operators posted “we are deeply relieved that much of the property was spared and the resort will reopen in the future.”

Update: July 25, 5:00 PM MST pic.twitter.com/rgiIRP58Kz — Jasper Park Lodge (@FairmontJPL) July 25, 2024

Guests with upcoming reservations in the short term were advised their plans will be canceled as the full scope of the fire damage is evaluated. The lodge asks that anyone who has booked a visit call 800-257-7544 or 403-762-2211 to reach the reservations team for further guidance.

The staff went on to thank the many organizations that have fought the fire or offered assistance, care and relief. The lodge pledged its support to the community and colleagues when rebuilding efforts begin.

See more equipment: Best drivers for 2024 | Best irons for 2024 | Best putters for 2024 | Best golf balls for 2024

Most Popular

Photos: former lpga player cheyenne woods through the years, meet the 60 players who qualified for the 2024 summer olympic men's golf competition in paris, a week after british open close call, billy horschel withdraws from 2024 3m open, this former u.s. open participant and florida gator is battling als: 'the disease is winning, unfortunately', take a look at the golf courses owned by donald trump, tiger woods admits assassination attempt on donald trump affected him at 2024 open championship, golfweek's best 2024: top public-access golf courses in every state, ranked.

Noah Gillard sets course-record 61 at Commissionaires Ottawa Open for first-round lead

Noah Gillard holds the first-round lead of the Commissionaires Ottawa Open. (Jay Fawler/PGA TOUR)

Change Text Size

OTTAWA, Ontario – Noah Gillard holds the first-round lead of the Commissionaires Ottawa Open after setting a new course record at Eagle Creek Golf Club with an 11-under 61.

Gillard turned in a blemish-free scorecard and made nine birdies and an eagle, including three consecutive birdies on his final three holes to break the course record previously held by Jimmy Hervol (2024) and Jimmy Jones (2023). Gillard’s final birdie of the day was also the one he least expected.

“I was under a tree, and that was the first time I was in trouble all day,” Gillard said. “I had enough of a gap to hit it below the tree and I was just trying to hit enough to carry the front number and run it up which I did. When I was over the putt I couldn’t really see much … I was honestly just trying to two-putt. … I hit it and thought, 'There’s no way that’s going in’ and it hit the cup, I couldn’t be more lucky.."

Gillard earned exempt status for the North America Swing after finishing T3 at PGA TOUR Americas Q-School in San Jacinto, California, at Soboba Spring Golf Course. With two top-15 finishes and a course record, Gillard has relished the opportunity to compete.

“Being up here … I’m up in Canada, I’m living my dream,” Gillard said. “I could miss every cut here on out or I could make every cut, I couldn’t be more blessed to be here living out my dream no matter what happens.”

Gillard started his collegiate career at the University of Illinois where he competed from 2018-20. After a redshirt season in 2020-21, Gillard transferred to Indiana University where he finished his collegiate career. While in college, Gillard won the Indiana State Amateur in 2020 and 2021, becoming the first back-to-back champion since Jeff Overton in 2004-05.

Gillard made his PGA TOUR Americas debut at The Beachlands Victoria Open presented by Times Colonist where he finished T12. Gillard will begin his second round at 9:20 a.m. on Friday on the No. 1 tee.

Second-round tee times will begin at 7:30 a.m. and will run until 2:40 p.m. off the No. 1 and 10 tees.

About Noah Gillard (First/-11)  

• Birthplace: Greenwood, Indiana
• Residence: Greenwood, Indiana
• College: Indiana University
• Fortinet Cup (start of week): 76th
• Set the course record at Eagle Creek Golf Club with an 11-under 61 in the first round of the 2024 Commissionaires Ottawa Open
• Made his professional debut at the 2024 Beachlands Victoria Open presented by Times Colonist, where he finished T12
• Won the Indiana State Amateur in 2020 and 2021; became the first player since Jeff Overton in 2004-05 to claim back-to-back titles

Competition Notes  

• Course Setup: Par 72 / 7,032 yards; R1 average: 69.94
• Weather: Cloudy with a high of 69. Wind from the northwest at 4-13 mph with gusts up to 27 mph.  Noah Gillard holds the first-round lead at 11-under. Gillard earned exempt status for the North America swing after finishing T3 at PGA TOUR Americas Q-School in San Jacinto, California
• Five countries are represented in the top five and ties: United States (2), South Africa (1), Canada (1), Mexico (1) and Chinese Taipei (1)
• Mexico’s Rodolfo Cazaubon (T5/-7) is the low Latin after the first round
• Joey Savoie is the low Canadian after the first round (T5/-7)
• Noah Gillard hit 100% (18/18) of Greens In Regulation, which leads the field through the first round
• Jimmy Hervol leads the field in birdies made with 10
• Hole No. 13 – the 426-yard par 4 – was the most challenging hole at Eagle Creek Golf Club; averaging a +.190

What we know about Canada flying drones over Olympic soccer practices

The canadian olympic committee announced it has sent home an assistant women's soccer coach and an analyst after accusations of spying on an opponent..

PARIS − The Olympic flame has yet to be lit at the Paris Games , but the first scandal of espionage is underway.

The Canadian Olympic Committee announced Tuesday it has sent home an assistant women's soccer coach and an analyst with Canada Soccer after accusations of spying on an opponent. The New Zealand women’s soccer team said its training session was disrupted Tuesday by a drone − a drone operated by a staff member of the Canadian’s women’s soccer team.

In a statement, the Canadian Olympic Committee acknowledged there have been two incidents of drone flying in the city of Saint-Étienne, where the two teams are set to play Thursday. The COC has removed assistant coach Jasmine Mander and analyst Joseph Lombardi from the team.

The COC also said it accepted head coach Bev Priestman's decision to not coach the team in Thursday's game. Canada Soccer staff will undergo mandatory ethics training.

What happened with the drone at soccer training?

After the incident involving the drone July 22, the drone operator was detained by police, according to the New Zealand Olympic Committee (NZOC).

2024 Olympic medals: Who is leading the medal count? Follow along as we track the medals for every sport.

"Team support members immediately reported the incident to police, leading to the drone operator, who has been identified as a support staff member of the wider Canadian Women's football team, to be detained," the NZOC said in a statement.

The International Olympic Committee's integrity unit also was informed of the incident, according to NZOC.

"The Canadian Olympic Committee stands for fair-play and we are shocked and disappointed,’’ the committee said in a statement. “We offer our heartfelt apologies to New Zealand Football, to all the players affected and to the New Zealand Olympic Committee.’’

The NZOC and New Zealand Football said they were “deeply shocked and disappointed by this incident.’’

“At this time the NZOC's main priority is to support the New Zealand women's football athletes and wider team as they start their campaign,’’ they said in a statement.

Canada is the reigning Olympic champion and won back-to-back bronze medals at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics.