In general terms the RYA Sail Cruising & Yachtmaster Scheme reaches a transition point after RYA Coastal Skipper Practical. This level predominantly targets the leisure and pleasure sailor.
Beyond this point it works with the UK Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) for higher levels of training for the more commercial areas of the sailing industry.
The term “Yachtmaster” has been created to differentiate these higher levels, and the 3 tiers offered culminate in Certificates of Competence as opposed to Course Completion Certificates.
Course Completion Certificates are exactly that. Satisfactorily complete the Course and you are awarded a Certificate.
By comparison, an RYA/MCA Yachtmaster qualification can only be obtained after formal independent examination requiring pre-qualifying criteria to be met.
The 3 tiers are: Click for pre qualifying criteria.
RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal
RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore
RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean
All can be MCA Commercially Endorsed once additional criteria have been satisfied, and all are valuable qualifications for those looking to build a career in a seafaring industry.
At Miramar Sailing School we offer a Yachtmaster Fast Track route that we call “Yachtmaster Xpress”.
This course is structured as a series of Training Modules that can be taken as a complete package, or on a modular basis over time.
There are 2 Training Module options spanning up to 16 or 18 weeks depending on which RYA/MCA Yachtmaster qualification you are targeting.
“Yachtmaster Xpress” includes courses for STCW (Safety Training for Crew & Watch keepers), Short Range Radio Operators License (VHF), and PPR (Professional Practices & Responsibilities.
Successful completion of all Training Modules will lead to those qualifications required for a professional commercial sailing career, including the possibility of employment in the Super Yacht industry.