For applicants requiring a commercail pathway to move up the RYA/MCA qualification commercial ladder, the course requires the exam to be Invigilated (face to face examination) an additional fee of $200 for the 4 hour session.

This course is recognised by the MCA – Maritime Coast Guard Agency (further Information MSN1858, section 3.4)

Note. A recent client had his MCA OOW Yacht Cof C and wanted to upgrade to a chief mate. This course meets the requirements.

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is the first stage in obtaining the prestigious RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence. This course is equally suited to those that aspire to blue water cruising or who just want to learn traditional navigation. The course will equip you with the necessary theoretical skills to carry out an ocean passage as mate or skipper. The course will cover all aspects of ocean navigation with particular emphasis on the use of astro-navigation and worldwide meteorology. The sessions on astro-navigation will unlock the mysteries of the sextant and allow you to confidently take sights at sea to obtain your position and carry out compass checks.

Ocean sailing is, however about more than just using a sextant. Another important aspect of ocean sailing is worldwide meteorology, passage planning and communications at sea. Publications that assist the ocean navigator such as routeing charts and other pilot books will be discussed. The course also recognises that there has been a vast improvement in technology available to help with ocean routeing and weather prediction. Time will be spent discussing the various computer programmes, internet sites and satellite/radio broadcasts available to the modern ocean navigator. Crew management, watch keeping, victualling, water and fuel management and emergency equipment are also covered.

Having successfully passed this shorebased course you will be ready to for an ocean voyage. Upon returning candidates who already hold the RYA/MCA Yacht Master Offshore Certificate of Competence can apply to be examined for the full RYA/MCA Yacht Master Ocean Certificate of Competence.