Day Skipper
Take charge on short passages under instruction, with help and advice from your instructor.
This course can also help you get the best from your modern electronic aids such as GPS and radar, which are now virtually standard equipment on modern motor cruisers.
Before attending the course you should be able to navigate and are well advised to attend the RYA Day Skipper shorebased course to brush up on your skills (see Navigation and seamanship theory on the left).
The course can be taken in tidal or non-tidal waters and your certificate will be endorsed accordingly.
View our online brochure here
| Pre-course experience |
2 days practical experience on a motor cruiser |
| Assumed knowledge |
Basic navigation and helmsmanship. It is recommended that you attend the Day Skipper Shorebased Course before taking this practical course |
| Minimum duration |
4 days |
| Minimum age |
16 |
| Course content |
Preparation for sea, boat handling, navigation, pilotage, passage making, meteorology, rules of the road, engines, emergency situations, night cruising |
| Ability after the course |
Able to skipper a motor cruiser in familiar waters by day |
See Also
The theory behind the practical course
A range of courses to back up your learning on the water
How to use your Day Skipper certificate for work