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Introduction 

If living on board, cruising the coast or venturing further offshore appeals to you, why not give motor cruising a go?

Motor cruisers have accommodation and cooking facilities, offering a degree of comfort while spending time afloat. How adventurous you are is up to you.

Whether you are a first-timer wanting to get to grips with your first boat, or a more experienced skipper wanting to expand your skills, there is an RYA course for you.

View our online brochure here

 

On this page:
Practical courses

Practical motor cruising courses

The scheme comprises the series of practical courses below, complemented by our navigation and other specialist short courses. You can use them simply to increase your knowledge and confidence, or as a progression to the RYA/MCA Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide. 

You can enter our programme at any level, provided you have the correct level of experience beforehand. Be realistic when assessing your current experience and abilities and, if in doubt, discuss your requirements with your chosen training centre before booking your course.

Helmsman

A course covering basic boat handling, engine checks and safety

Day skipper

Take charge on short passages under instruction

Coastal skipper

Take charge and make full use of the boat on longer, more complex passages
Pre-course experience None required, but some practical experience is desirable 2 days practical experience 15 days, 2 days as skipper, 300 miles, 8 night hours
Assumed knowledge None Navigation to Day Skipper shorebased standard and basic motor cruising ability Navigation to Coastal Skipper shorebased standards. Boat handling to Day Skipper practical standard
Minimum duration 2 days 4 days 5 days
Minimum age None 16 17
Course content Boating safety, helmsmanship, boat handling, introduction to engine maintenance Pilotage, boat handling, seamanship and navigation Skippering techniques for coastal and offshore passages
Ability after course Competent to handle a motor cruiser of a specific type in sheltered waters Able to skipper a motor cruiser in familiar waters by day Able to skipper a motor cruiser on coastal passages by day and night