rya yachtmaster ocean theory

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory – Everything You Need to Know

This course is a theoretical land based course aimed at yacht skippers advancing beyond the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore level.

It is an advanced course in astro navigation, sextant use and global meteorology that gives you the background knowledge required to skipper a vessel on ocean passages.

What Does the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Allow You to Do?

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory sets you up to be ready for your ocean qualifying passage and the subsequent RYA Ocean Exam.

Who Can Do an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory?

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is open to anyone who has equivalent knowledge to that covered in the RYA Day Skipper Theory and RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory courses. There is no age limit.

If you are a complete novice to nautical sailing, then you may want to consider the RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course or the RYA Day Skipper Theory course is also suitable for novices.

If you are an experienced mariner with many years of experience, both skippering and taking on navigational duties but with no formal training, then you may first want to cover the RYA Fast Track to Yachtmaster course which is essentially the same as the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory course but with extended content to bridge the gap for someone without an RYA Day Skipper Theory course completion. This will bring you up to the required theory knowledge of the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory.

Can You Go Straight to the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course?

A theoretical experience in line with the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory course is required.

A practical experience in line with the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certificate of confidence is desirable but not required.

If you have advanced practical skills but lack theoretical knowledge, then the RYA Fast Track to Yachtmaster Course might be best to do first before taking on this course.

Where Can I Do My RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course?

There are many thoughts on where is best, but to be truthful, it is what works for you best. 

Your 2 main options are in a classroom course or via an online provider. The 2 different types of learning suit different types of people.

Classroom courses benefit from listening to and talking to other students as well as having the instructor in front of you. Online courses benefit from being able to work at your own speed, repeat lessons and get a more in depth learning experience as you are not tied to completing the course at the end of the week. At Ardent Training we pride ourselves on bringing the best of both of these worlds together with built in discussions on our online platform, a student forum and every single lesson being recorded in video format as well as visual and text.

How Long Does the Course Take?

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory is suggested to take a minimum of 40 hours of learning, plus exam time. 

How this time is shaped can vary. In online courses, you can generally work at your own speed, while in classroom environments, anything from evening classes of 2-3 hours a week to 3 weekends in a row to a 5 or 6 day course over a week is possible.

Is There a Set Syllabus?

There is indeed a syllabus. Each of the following topics represents a specific part of the learnings that will be covered on an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course in varying levels of detail.

Astro navigation, Astro navigational tools, sun sights, planets and the moon, stars, meteorology, communications, passage planning and making, GNSS and compass checking detail the various aspects of the syllabus.

Read on to learn in a little more detail about how each of these is covered in a little more detail.

What Will I Learn on the Course?

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course covers a wide range of topics and introduces many topics and important knowledge that will be useful not only for completing an ocean qualifying passage but in preparing and passing your RYA Yachtmaster Ocean exam.

There are 3 main aspects to the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean course; Astro navigation, global meteorology and ocean passage making. A lot of the course is built around Astro navigation, but the other parts are just as important.

Within the Astro navigation, you will learn about why we use it and how we can find our position using just the sun, moon, planets or stars. 

Whilst learning about the celestial bodies, we will also focus on the basics of a sextant, time measurement and how we can use all we are doing to check our compasses as well.

An important aspect is also passage making, the various stages of it, what is different about passage plans on an ocean level and what publications and resources we need to be aware of.

On the meteorology side, we will look at how global weather evolves from the heating of the earth to creating weather systems while also looking more closely at unique weather patterns around the world, especially tropical revolving storms.

The course is in depth, and will cover many different topics and aspects that you may have seen before. While the RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore Theory were supercharging the RYA Day Skipper theory , this RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is on very different themes.

What Is the Cost of an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course?

As ever, many schools differ in price and it is important to understand everything that is included within your course such as materials, available content and instructor help. As always, the cheapest is not often better. At Ardent Training , our online RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory is due very soon and you can join our waiting list here .

What Is the Pass Mark for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course?

There is no specific pass mark as such. The instructor aims to bring you up to a level where you have a satisfactory level of theory knowledge across the subjects covered to be able to put your new learnings into practice during your ocean qualifying passage and then to show your knowledge during your RYA Yachtmaster Ocean exam.

What Comes after RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

After your RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course you will want to get out on the water and complete an ocean qualifying passage. After that, with your course knowledge still fresh you will want to do your RYA Yachtmaster Ocean exam.

You can look to start gaining more miles at sea, longer ocean passages and progressing in your career as a fully fledged RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Skipper.

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RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

All of our online theory courses are delivered by Navathome, an RYA Recognised Training Centre specialising in online training. This course has been developed over many years and is written to provide a thorough understanding of the syllabus. 

Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, using a sextant, ocean passage making, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigational aids. Navathome has 100% pass rates for this course and has dedicated instructors available 7 days a week from 0800 until 2000 in the evening and are contactable by email or phone. 

Prior knowledge to coastal skipper theory level is required as this course is aimed at those aspiring to blue water cruising and perhaps preparing for your first ocean passage. Anyone who is already comfortable with navigation from the coastal theory course can learn more about celestial navigation. 

Course Requirements and Assessments

Prior to the course your navigation skills should be at the standard of the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore shorebased course. A sextant is not required to complete the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean theory.

Invigilated assessments

If you are looking to sit the RYA/MCA oral exam, the RYA require the theory assessment to be invigilated by a Yachtmaster Ocean Instructor – alternatively you can sit an extra paper as part of your oral exam. If you wish to take an invigilated assessment at the end of the course rather than sit an extra paper during your oral exam, then this can be organised at one of Navathome’s participating training centres. Please note that there is an additional fee for the invigilation.

Please note: MCA issued full STCW Certificate of Competence as a Deck Officer (Unlimited) will be exempt from the written examination. Invigilation of the final assessment will also be required if the qualification is to be used commercially.

The course takes approximately 40 hours to complete with a 2 part assessment taken in one sitting of 2 hours.

Given that everyone learns at their own pace. There is an initial 6 months time limit to complete the course with a further 6 month extension available at a cost of an additional £30 fee.

What's Included?

• Fully animated lessons
• Downloadable proformas and plotting sheets
• Access to the online course for a period of 6 months
• Friendly instructors available 7 days a week
• 2 years access to the revision course
• RYA certification issued by Navathome upon successful completion of the course
• The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Course includes the RYA question paper and almanac

Course Syllabus

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• Practical guide to use and care of sextant at sea
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star and other sights
• Ocean passage planning

Registration And Price

Please read the  Navathome Terms & Conditions  and the  Navathome Data Protection Policy  prior to booking as they outline all details of the booking with Navathome.

The cost of this course is £275

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• 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.

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Coastal / Offshore

RYA Yachtmaster

Online Theory Course

A challenging course which stretches you but backed up with excellent coaching and instructor support.

Advanced training for more experienced skippers to navigate safely on coastal and offshore passages

The RYA Yachtmaster  online theory course takes your theory knowledge to the standard required for the Yachtmaster Coastal and Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.

This course advances your skills as a skipper of a yacht or motor boat, with an emphasis on navigation and passage planning for more complex coastal or offshore passages by day and night

Includes some time for the revision of Day Skipper subjects then moves on to cover a greater depth of knowledge and more advanced skills in navigation, pilotage & meteorology.

Successfully gaining your RYA Yachtmaster theory certificate will enable you to confidently work towards your Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore practical qualification.

• Assumed knowledge To Day Skipper theory level.
• Minimum duration A minimum of 40 hours of course study time is specified by the RYA, plus time for exercises and exams.
• Ability after course Theory knowledge to skipper a vessel on coastal and offshore passages by day and night.  

Simply click below to try a free lesson.

Pilotage for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

• Charts & Other Publications
• Definition of Position, Time, Speed & Distance
• The Compass (including allowance for deviation and swinging the compass)
• Tidal Theory
• Tidal Heights (including secondary ports)
• Tidal Streams (including interpolation of drift)
• Estimated Position
• Course to Steer
• Visual Aids to Navigation
• Electronic Aids to Navigation
• Passage Planning
• Meteorology (including interpreting surface pressure charts)
• The Collision Regulations
• Safety & Protection of The Environment

Unlimited support from our dedicated RYA Instructors - 365 days a year via email, phone or Skype/Zoom.

14-day unconditional money-back guarantee.

17 fully-narrated online lessons including animations, videos and realistic 3D graphics.

Embedded quizzes with instant feedback in each lesson.

14 self-assessment exercises with fully worked answers.

Over 50 downloadable or linked resources.

Videos covering: updating paper charts, engine checks, dismasting, jury rig, flood control, firefighting, gas explosions, capsize, lifejacket checks, how to put on a lifejacket and what happens when it inflates, man-overboard recovery, launching and boarding a liferaft.

Free Radar course.

RYA Student Pack (including 2 training charts, training almanac & course handbook).

Mock exams to prepare you for the real thing and give you the confidence to pass. 

3 final online exams with detailed instructor feedback and free repeat attempts if requried.

RYA Yachtmaster Shorebased Theory Course Completion Certificate.

12 months access to study with instructor support and exams - you can extend this if you want.

Lifetime access to training materials once you’ve completed the course.

Optional Extras

Plotter and divider You’ll need a course plotter and chart-dividers to complete the chartwork exercises - if you don’t already have these you can purchase a top quality set from us for £28 when you place your order.

Delivery UK delivery is free.  European delivery is £20, outside Europe delivery is £40.

You can start studying immediately as many of the lessons don’t rely on the printed support materials.

This course is accessed online with no additional software required.

Lessons are accompanied by optional professional narration, and notes. 

They are intuitive and easy to follow, whilst more complex subjects are accompanied by interactive animations and graphics to help you gain a full knowledge of each subject in the course syllabus.

Detailed step-by-step workings for navigational or tidal calculations make it easy for you to follow along as we show you how to plot positions, make tidal height and stream calculations, etc

You can go over these again and again, and test your knowledge with regular quizzes throughout each lesson. 

At the end of each lesson there is an excercise containg similar questions to the exam, with detailed and illustrated answers sent to you immediately to confirm your progress and fully prepare you for your mock and final exams.

You can repeat entire lessons and excercises as often as you wish until you are confident that you fully understand each subject.

When you have completed the course you can request mock and then final exams.

These are assessed by our RYA Instructors and detailed feedback is provided in any areas that may require further study within the course.

If you pass the final exams you will be awarded the RYA/MCA Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Course Certificate , which will be posted to you.

Additional free resits, with suitable Instructor guidance, are available if required.

Call us for advice on 0238 218 2604

Course reviews.

Laura Anderson

Very enjoyable and informative

Impressively prompt and thorough feedback on all queries, tests, mock and real exams. Very high standards and you feel you have earned the Yachtmaster certificate.

Ciaran McIntyre

Comprehensive and well delivered

Excellent course materials and high quality delivery. Very responsive and excellent instructor feedback

Andrew Harvey

Excellent Yachtmaster theory course - I’d definitely recommend it.

Does what it says on the tin and more. I was impressed how well the course managed to tackle teaching relatively complex skills in a logical and easy to understand way.

Oliver Fleming

Well put together course.

I found the Yachtmaster theory course to be really well structured and covered all of the syllabus in great detail. I was impressed by how well the course managed to tackle teaching relatively complex skills in a logical and easy to understand way.

Combined - RYA Day Skipper & Yachtmaster to fast track your theory learning

RYA Ocean Yachtmaster Theory (online)

Our rya ocean yachtmaster theory (online) course.

About The Course

About rya ocean yachtmaster theory (online).

The course takes approximately 40 hours to complete with an assessment of 2 parts (2 hours) taken in one sitting.

Required Experience

Navigation to Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased standard.

If the student wishes to take the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam, the RYA require the end of course theory assessment to be invigilated by an RYA Instructor at an RYA recognised Training Centre. Alternatively, the candidate can opt to take an extra theory paper during the oral exam.

Where To Find Us

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Our Training Centre:

Royal Norfolk & Suffolk Yacht Club The Royal Plain, Lowestoft Suffolk, NR33 0AQ

Speak to us:

01493 253004 - training centre, 07775 581912 - course admin.

For Powerboat or Shore based course enquiries please email our Chief Instructor:

[email protected]

For non course enquiries please email our owner and training principal

[email protected]

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RYA Online Courses

Rya yachtmaster ocean online.

£ 275.00

Description

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean online theory course is the first stage in obtaining the prestigious RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence.

The RYA Online Yachtmaster Ocean course costs £275 including the course pack that contains the neseccary Sight Reduction tables, Nautical Almanac extracts, Course information booklet and your Shorebased notes publication that will act as an Aide-mémoire throughout the online course.

This online course is equally suited to those that aspire to blue water cruising, or those who just want to learn traditional navigation.

You do not need a Sextant to take the course.

The Yachtmaster Ocean theory 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 a 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 covered.

This course is suitable for those who hold a theory certificate to the level of Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore or equivalent.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR RYA YACHTMASTER OCEAN THEORY COURSE

Your RYA-approved Online Yachtmaster Ocean theory course is provided by Navathome, a RYA Recognised Training Centre specialising in online training, and consists of detailed, animated lessons that are heavily image-based. The lessons are all online and can be accessed from your PC or Mac.

Click here for a  Free Trial

Each section is followed by a set of questions which can be answered quickly and easily online. Once you submit your answer, you’ll be provided with instant feedback and will gain access to a detailed answer page. Some of your answers will then be forwarded on to your delegated instructor, who can provide you with help and support if necessary.

You will receive RYA Certification on satisfactory completion of the course.

Your Ocean Yachtmaster theory course costs  £275 and includes the RYA pack so wherever you are in the world, you’ll receive material that’s completely tailored to your needs.

By clicking a payment button you are agreeing to Navathome’s terms and conditions available  here .

Where ever you purchase your course, as with all courses, the quality will of the course be greatly influenced by the quality of the Instructor. By clicking the add to cart button below and only available from this web site, your course Instructor will be Peter. Peter is a very experienced RYA Ocean Yachtmaster Instructor with over 25 years’ experience in providing RYA tuition to students of all abilities.

Peter has extensively sailed the Atlantic, Caribbean, Irish sea, English Channel, North Sea, Inland waterways of Holland, Aegean and the Mediterranean and whilst Peter will happily assist the highly experienced Seafarer in obtaining top end qualifications, Peter particularly enjoys helping beginners to achieve their own personal goals.

There is an six-month initial access period. In the unlikely event that you will need an extension, there is an option to extend as many times as you like until you pass your assessment. The cost of administrating each 6-month extension, beyond the initial 6 months, is £30.

Invigilated assessments If you wish to claim exemption to the written element of the Ocean Yachtmaster practical oral exam, the RYA now require the end of course theory assessment to be invigilated at an approved RYA Training centre (of which we are one) or the candidate can take an extra paper during the oral examination.

Click here further information about Online courses

This is a course in astro-navigation and worldwide meteorology which also reveals the mysteries of the sextant. It assumes a knowledge of all subjects covered in the other shorebased courses.

1. The earth and the celestial sphere

Definition of observer’s zenith and position of a heavenly body in terms of latitude, longitude, GHA and declination Right angle relationships, latitude and co-lat, declination and polar distance Relationship between GHA, longitude and LHA Tabulation of declination in nautical almanac Rate of increase of hour angle with time

2. The PZX triangle

The tabulated components of the triangle, LHA, co-lat and polar distance The calculable components, zenith distance and azimuth Relationship between zenith distance and altitude Introduction to the tabular method of solution in the Air Navigation Tables and the basic sight form The use of calculators for the solution of the PZX triangle

3. The sextant

Practical guide to the use and care of a sextant at sea Conversion of sextant altitude to true altitude Application of dip, index error and refraction Correction of side error, perpendicularity, index error and collimation error

4. Measurement of time

Definition of, and relationship between, UT, LMT, standard time and zone time Rating of chronometers and watches

5. Meridian altitudes

Forecasting time of meridian altitude Reduction of meridian altitude sights

6. Sun, star and other sights

Reduction and plotting of sun sights using Air Navigation Tables Awareness of use of calculator for sight reduction The plotting of sun-run-sun meridian altitude Awareness of the reduction and plotting of sights obtained from stars, moon and planets

7. Compass checking

Use of amplitude and azimuth tables systems and/or calculator

8. Satellite Navigation Systems

Principles and limitations of use of all systems

9. Great circle sailing

Comparison of rhumb lines and great circles Vertices and composite tracks The computation of a series of rhumb lines approximating to a great circle by use of gnomonic and Mercator projections

10. Meteorology

General pressure distribution and prevailing winds over the oceans of the world Tropical revolving storms, seasonal occurrence and forecasting by observation

11. Passage planning

Publications available to assist with planning of long passages (routeing charts, ocean passages of the world and other publications) Preparation for ocean passage including survival equipment, victualling, water and fuel management, chafe protection, spares and maintenance

12. Passage making

Navigational routine Watchkeeping Crew management

13. Communications

Satellite and terrestrial systems Weather information Pack Shipping details Packs will be shipped for free to most destinations within the mainland United Kingdom.

We cannot deliver to a PO Box address. A physical address will be required in all circumstances.

A valid contact telephone number for the student will also need to be provided at the time of making the booking.

Packs to Russia must go to a Business address.

Sailtrain will not accept responsibility for Packs sent to Marinas, or C/O addresses. If the pack goes missing after it has been signed for, replacement packs will only be provided at the students expense.

Details of any special delivery requirements should be provided in the notes section of your Booking form.

The shipment of packs to the following destinations not shown above, will incur the below indicated additional charge:

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RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory "Navathome" On-Line Theory Course

Your theory needs to be to the level of RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore to complete this course.

This on-line theory course is delivered by our partners  “Navathome”.

Navathome Terms and Conditions

                                                                                   Navathome Data Protection Policy

The course takes approximately 40 hours to complete with an assessment of 2 parts taken in one sitting of 2 hours.

Assumed Knowledge

Course Content

The course consists of animated lessons that work on any device, test questions that are recorded in your results file and the final assessment which, if required, can be invigilated at one of the many training centres we work with.

Expected Learning Outcome

If you wish to take the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam, the RYA require the end of course theory assessment to be invigilated by an RYA Instructor at an RYA recognised Training Centre. Alternatively, the candidate can opt to take an extra paper during the oral exam. If you wish to take an invigilated assessment at the end of the theory course rather than take an extra paper during the oral exam please let us know in advance and we can arrange for you to take the assessment at one of our participating centers. There will be a fee for the invigilation which is at the discretion of the chosen RYA recognised Training Centre On successful completion of this Navathome theory course, you will receive an official RYA certificate signed by Navathome.

€340.00 plus delivery of your book/navigation tools pack to your nominated address (UK  delivery costs included - See Shipping costs here ).

Shipping Policy The student pack will be sent on either the same day or the next working day.  All packs, whether sent via Royal Mail or by courier, are sent with tracking information and should be signed for. Navathome will not be held responsible for any duty or expenses incurred in the country of delivery. Packs sent to 'Care Of' addresses. Navathome will not be held responsible for pack sent to 'care of' addresses of any type including business, marinas, relatives etc. Replacement packs for those lost after delivery will be at the sole expenses of the purchaser including postage and handling fees.

Theory Pack Contents: The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean course includes the RYA question paper and almanac and the most comprehensive online ocean navigation course available.

Availability

Course Expiry

There is an initial access period of 6 months which is plenty of time to complete any of the courses offered. Your access can be extended at any time for up to two years after your access runs out for an admin fee of £30. Access lapses completely and your log in is deleted if your course has run out and you have not extended within two years of your course access expiry date. Once you have completed the coursework and passed the assessment, your course is completed and you course access is terminated. You can request access to the revision course at this time.

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RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory

Price: from £485 (Finance now available)

Location: Starts from our base at Premier Gosport Marina

Duration: 5 days

The RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory Course brings students with at least the RYA Yachtmaster™ Coastal or Yachtmaster™ Offshore qualification and some sailing experience, up to Yachtmaster™ Ocean level (Theory only).

Take a look at our live course calendar  for dates for the RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory course!

Booking details

No dates currently available. Please contact us for more info.

Course Information

Joining Instructions: Please click here for course joining instructions

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Exam application fee isn’t included in the above cost. Please click here to print-off the RYA Yachtmaster exam application form :

Recommended Reading: RYA Day Skipper Handbook Sail (G71), RYA Yacht Sailing Techniques (G94), RYA Yachtmaster™ scheme and syllabus (G158)

Course Prerequisites:  RYA/MCA Yachtmaster™ Offshore Certificate of Competence for those intending to ultimately gain the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Certificate of Competence, otherwise a knowledge of navigation to RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Offshore theory level

Minimum Age: 17+

Holiday Insurance: We would advise ALL our customers to ensure they have suitable holiday insurance in-place. Yachtsman’s insurance is available from a variety of souces like Topsail Insurance and can cover things like cancellations and personal effects cover.

Who is the course for:

This is perfect for those sailors who have completed their RYA/MCA Yachtmaster™ Offshore and want to explore the world with some blue water sailing experience or major ocean-going passages.

What we cover on the course:

The course does cover all aspects of ocean navigation with particular emphasis on the use of astro-navigation and worldwide meteorology.

The lessons 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.

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• Practical guide to use and care of sextant at sea
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star and other sights
• Ocean passage planning

Another important aspect of ocean sailing is worldwide meteorology, passage planning and communications at sea.

Publications and charts that assist the ocean navigator such as routing charts and other pilot books will be discussed and used.

The course also recognises that there has been a vast improvement in technology available to help with ocean routing 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 to give a real all-round course and a vast depth of knowledge.

Upon having successfully passed this theory course you will be ready to put the theory into practice on an ocean voyage and passage.

If you return form your ocean passage and have done the required navigation and sights, you are eligible to sit the ocean master certificate of confidence exam.

This can be arranged through ourselves or direct with the RYA.

Course formats & details:

Courses run in a choice of two formats:

• 3 consecutive weekends: (Saturday to Sunday)
• 5 continuous days: (Monday to Friday)

The course includes free overnight accommodation aboard our immaculate, well-maintained yachts, and free tea and coffee, although no meals are included in the course cost (Free accommodation is during low season only and subject to yacht availability – Please check with us beforehand).

All meals are at the students own cost and are taken at any of the great local establishments in Gosport, or a short ferry hop across the harbour to Portsmouth.

Please note that during high season accommodation on-board cannot be guaranteed, so please ensure if you need to take advantage of this benefit you inform us of your requirements well in advance. Should we have no free boats available, you will need to arrange overnight accommodation at your own cost.

Fancy going VIP and having your own exclusive private course for you and your friends or family? You can book the whole yacht just for your own exclusive course from only £485 per person. Enjoy the course in style, with up to five persons on the boat being taught by one of our friendly, experienced Yachtmaster Instructors! What a way to start your sailing adventure!

Our Chief Instructor says this about the Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory Course:

This is one of the coolest things you possibly can do as a Yachtsman.

Being able to use a sextant and navigate with confidence in the middle of the ocean is one of the pinnacles of sailing.

Being out in the middle of the ocean, stood in the cockpit taking sights and then using reduction tables to work out where you are makes some of the most amazing journeys throughout your time as a Yachtsman.

Carrying that wooden box with you onto the vessel as you move towards your passage can be an amazing feeling. With the additions of world meteorology and also ocean passage planning the course really is a good all rounder for those who want to prepare themselves for an ocean voyage of a lifetime.

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Take a look at our live course calendar  for dates for the Channel Island Cruise!

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Take a look at our live course calendar  for dates for the Spinnaker & Downwind Sailing Weekend!

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The RYA Sea Survival Course is an essential for any sailor. Teaching self-help techniques and what to do when all is lost, it’s a prerequisite for longer passages and those wanting to get into racing like RORC Fastnet!

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Customer reviews

A fantastic weekend of sailing, almost 130 NM in all, with a relaxed, but fully engaging skipper. Great set up and brilliant on the admin. Thanks Stef, Tom et al!

I did a weeks coastal skipper course getting ready for my yacht master and I have to say it was one of the best training weeks I’ve had - our training instructor was superb, exactly the sort of person that you want. He could inspire, provide discipline and impart knowledge as well as let you learn through your own mistakes. Tom and Steph run an excellent operation there and I highly recommend it. They’re flexible and very helpful when it comes to your journey into being a qualified sailor.

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Theory Course

Rya yachtmaster ocean theory course, get instant access £275.

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The Ultimate In Navigation

This comprehensive program covers vital topics such as celestial navigation, ocean passage planning, weather forecasting and meteorology. By mastering these essential skills, you'll gain the theoretical knowledge ready to navigate vast and unpredictable waters with confidence. Join our course and embark on a journey towards becoming a competent and capable Yachtmaster Ocean. If you wish to take the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam, the RYA require the end of course theory assessment to be invigilated by an RYA Instructor at an RYA recognised Training Centre. Alternatively, the candidate can opt to take an extra paper during the oral exam. If you wish to take an invigilated assessment at the end of the theory course rather than take the extra paper during the oral exam, please let us know in advance so we can arrange for you to take the assessment at one of our participating centres. There will be a fee for the invigilation which is at the discretion of the chosen recognised Training Centre.

Most students pass first time but no stress if you don’t; we offer further help and tuition until you are successful.

Is this course right for you?

This course is suitable for those who hold theory knowledge to the level of Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore. The coursework will take approximately 40 hours. No sextant is required for the course as fully interactive animated lessons are included. The final assessment takes 2 hours which is taken in one sitting.

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‘What sets the course apart is the responsiveness of the support team should you have any questions.’ ‘All in all a super convenient and very efficient way to pass the RYA theory examinations.’

RYA Ocean Yachtmaster Course SYLLABUS

The earth and the celestial sphere:

• Definition of observer’s zenith and position of a heavenly body in terms of latitude.
• longitude, GHA and declination.
• Right angle relationships, latitude and co-lat, declination and polar distance.
• Relationship between GHA, longitude and LHA.
• Tabulation of declination in nautical almanac.
• Rate of increase of hour angle with time.

The PZX triangle:

• The tabulated components of the triangle, LHA, co-lat and polar distance.
• The calculable components, zenith distance and azimuth.
• Relationship between zenith distance and altitude.
• Introduction to the tabular method of solution in the Air Navigation Tables and the basic sight form.
• The use of calculators for the solution of the PZX triangle.

The sextant:

• Practical guide to the use and care of a sextant at sea.
• Conversion of sextant altitude to true altitude.
• Application of dip, index error and refraction.
• Correction of side error, perpendicularity, index error and collimation error.

Measurement of time:

• Forecasting time of meridian altitude.
• Reduction of meridian altitude sights.

Sun, star and other sights:

• Reduction and plotting of sun sights using.
• Air Navigation Tables.
• Awareness of the use of calculators for sight reduction.
• The plotting of sun-run-sun meridian altitude.
• Awareness of the reduction and plotting of sights obtained from stars, moon and planets.

Compass checking:

• Use of amplitude and azimuth tables systems and/or calculator.

Satellite Navigation Systems:

• Principles and limitations of use of all systems.

Great circle sailing:

• Comparison of rhumb lines and great circles.
• Verticies and composite tracks.
• The computation of a series of rhumb lines approximating to a great circle by use of gnomonic and Mercator projections.

Meteorology:

• General pressure distribution and prevailing winds over the oceans of the world.
• Tropical revolving storms, seasonal occurrence and forecasting by observation.

Passage planning:

• Publications available to assist with planning of long passages (routeing charts, ocean passages of the world and other publications).
• Preparation for ocean passage including survival equipment, victualling, water and fuel management, chafe protection, spares and maintenance.

Passage making:

• Navigational routine and Keeping watch.
• Crew management.

Communications:

• Satellite and terrestrial systems.
• Weather information.

CHOOSE YOUR COURSE

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

No Experience Necessary Learn Basic Navigation & Seamanship

RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster

Day Skipper Theory Needed Enhance Your Knowledge of Navigation & Passage Planning

No Qualification Necessary Complete the RYA CEVNI Test.

Fastrack to RYA Coastal YM

No Qualification Necessary Complete Day Skipper and Coastal YM in one course.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Our goal is to assist you by addressing common questions and offering 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.

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RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

This course is for those aspiring to blue water cruising and is ideal for holders of the RYA Yachtmaster™ Offshore Certificate of Competence who are preparing for their first ocean passage.  Prior to the course your navigation skills should be at the standard of the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Offshore shorebased course.  If you are working towards your RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Certificate of Competence , completion of this shorebased course exempts you from the written exam.

The course will cover all aspects of ocean navigation with particular emphasis on the use of astro-navigation (use of a sextant), worldwide meteorology, passage planning, crew management and communications at sea.

The course is delivered by Navathome, a RYA Recognised Training Centre specialising in online training.  To get a feel for the course  click here for a free trial .  You will be supported by our qualified training centre instructors on behalf of Navathome.com.  To complete the course there is an exam that is invigilated by ASIA Pacific Yachting.

The course is made available for a 6 month period. Should you need to extend this for a subsequent 6 month period an administrative fee will be levied ( see T&Cs for details ).

What to Bring

Course content, theory exam.

Delivered via an on-line web based training course for you to complete at your own speed.

Support is provided by your assigned instructor.

The course is made available for 6 months.  Should you wish to extend that period there is a service charge ( see T&Cs for detials )

You will require the following equipment:

• Access to a computer or tablet device with internet connection.

The earth and the celestial sphere, practical guide to use and care of sextant at sea, meridian altitudes, sun, star and other sights, ocean passage planning.

If you want to avoid the extra exam paper while doing your RYA Ocean exam, the course final assessment needs to be moderated at an RYA Training Centre.  This can be done at our centre in Hong Kong.  Please request the rates for the moderation when you are ready for the exam.

Complete an ocean qualifying passage (for definition see G15)  as mate or skipper taking sights consisting of at least a sun run meridian altitude and a compass check by the azimuth of the sun, moon, star or a planet.  Once completed the RYA Ocean Yachtmaster TM oral exam can be undertaken.

IMPORTANT :  **** WE DO NOT OFFER THE ORAL EXAM (USUALLY DONE IN THE UK OR AUSTRALIA) ****

Click the course below to access the booking page.

This course is available all year.

Yachtmaster Ocean

The  RYA Yachtmaster Ocean  shorebased theory course takes place over 5 days. This is a course in astro-navigation and world-wide meteorology which also reveals the mysteries of the sextant. It assumes a knowledge of ALL subjects covered in the other shorebased theory courses.

CLICK HERE TO RECEIVE OUR COURSE INFORMATION PACKS

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Course Description

The course completion certificate is a PREREQUISITE for booking the RYA/MCA  Yachtmaster Ocean  oral examination, unless candidates are prepared to take a written examination as well as the oral. Candidates must also have an ocean passage as skipper or mate. The candidate must provide the examiner with:

• A narrative account of the planning and execution of the qualifying passage
• Navigational records, completed on board a yacht on passages, out of sight of land showing that the candidate has navigated the yacht without the use of electronic navigational aids.

The records must include as a minimum: planning, reduction and plotting of a sun run meridian altitude sight and a compass check carried out using the bearing of the sun, moon, a star or planet.

During the oral test the candidate may be required to answer questions on all aspects of ocean passage making in a yacht, including passage planning, astro navigation, worldwide meteorology, crew management and yacht preparation, maintenance and repairs.

If you need a  Yachtmaster Ocean  Certificate of Competence in order to work on board a commercial craft subject to the MCA’s codes of practice, you will need to get it commercially endorsed.

The  Yachtmaster Ocean  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.

Topics covered include:

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• Practical guide to use and care of sextant at sea
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star and other sights
• Ocean passage planning

Learn about our Deckhand and Stewardess Courses

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• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

This intensive 6-day course unravels the mysteries of celestial navigation, using a sextant, worldwide meteorology and voyage planning. It is also the first step in obtaining the MCA / RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence. It is suitable for competent navigators planning an ocean passage or those just interested in learning traditional navigation techniques. The course will equip you with the necessary theoretical skills to undertake an ocean passage as mate or skipper and is in tended for those who already have some practical coastal and offshore cruising experience.

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 teach you practical use of the sextant and allow you to confidently take sights at sea to obtain your position and carry out compass checks.

Our instructor has extensive ocean sailing experience, bringing the theoretical knowledge and skills to life to make this an engaging and invaluable learning experience in preparation for ocean cruising.

Equally important for 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 examines the technology available to help with ocean routeing and weather prediction, where 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.

At the end of the course there will be one exam paper. After successful completion of this course you will be ready to put the theory into practice on an ocean voyage.

If you are working towards your Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence, completion of this shorebased course exempts you from the written exam.

To enquire about other dates or setting up a bespoke course for your group, please contact us .

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1 to 1 Tuition

1:1 tuition is also available for this course – £1150  (5 days)

This includes training materials and tea and coffee. Please get in touch with your preferred dates.

Course Topics

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• The PZX triangle
• The sextant
• Measurement of time
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star and other sights
• Compass checking
• Satellite Navigation Systems
• Great circle sailing
• Meteorology
• Passage planning
• Passage making
• Communications

What is included?

The course fee includes :

RYA Astro Navigation Handbook G78

RYA Navigation Table

RYA training charts

Use of sextant

Morning and afternoon tea

Free parking

For details of places to stay nearby click here

What to Bring

You will need to provide your own plotter, set up dividers,  notebook, pens and pencils.

Course Dates

30th Sep – 06th Oct 2024

01st – o7th Dec 2024

The cost of the 7 day course is £475

Pre course experience:  your navigation skills should be at the standard of the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore theory course and you should have some coastal and offshore sailing experience.

Ability after course

The course will provide you with the background knowledge required to skipper a yacht on ocean passages.

Ocean Discovery

26 Whinacres Conwy LL32 8ET North Wales, United Kingdom

T: 07918 651545 T: 07833 368300 E: [email protected]

Shorebased Courses

• RYA Day Skipper Theory
• RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Theory
• RYA Sea Survival
• World Sailing / ISAF Offshore Personal Safety
• RYA First Aid
• RYA VHF Radio Short Range Certificate

Keep in touch

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

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 theory course you will be ready to put the theory into practice on an ocean voyage. Upon returning candidates who already hold the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence can apply to be examined for the full RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence.

0900 Monday until approximately 1700 Friday.

What's Included:

All course materials, morning and afternoon tea. For details of local accommodation establishments please click here.

Supporting Books:

Please click here to view books for sale.

Support Courses:

• MCA/STCW Medical First Aid On Board Ship
• MCA/STCW Medical Care On Board Ship .

Complete an ocean passage as mate or skipper

Course Dates:

Please note that if the dates listed are not suitable for you or you wish to have a course run at your own venue please contact us.

Duration: 5 Days (Monday to Friday) .

Previous Experience Required: RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence for those intending to ultimately gain the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence, otherwise a knowledge of navigation to RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore theory level.

Course Overview: Celestial navigation, ocean meteorology, ocean passage planning and yacht management

Click here to view full course syllabus .

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

Want the adventure of blue water cruising this advanced theory course is for designed for you., rya yachtmaster™ ocean theory course.

The RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory Course is for those aspiring to blue water cruising and is ideal for holders of the Yachtmaster™ Offshore certificate who are preparing for their first ocean passage.

Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, using a sextant, ocean passage making, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigation aids.

What You Will Learn

Topics covered include:

• The earth and the celestial sphere
• Practical guide to use and care of sextant at sea
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star and other sights
• Ocean passage planning.

Prior to the course your navigation skills should be at the standard of the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster™ Offshore theory course.

If you are working towards your Yachtmaster™ Ocean Certificate of Competence , completion of this theory course exempts you from the written exam.

How Long Is The Course?

The course is run over 40 hours, with additional time for assessment with one examination paper. It is covered as an intensive 5 day course in the classroom and on board Chao Lay.

For information on attaining your Yachtmaster™ Ocean Certificate of Competence and attending an examination click here .

RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory Course Prerequisites

RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean Theory Course Details

Instructor Assistance For Ocean Passage Planning

Alex Johnstone is our proprietor and RYA Yachtmaster™ Instructor at Bluewater Sailing. He is highly trained with over 100,000 logged sea miles on both professional and personal sailing experiences. Alex has explored the Caribbean Sea, the Mediterranean, and the colder UK/European waters.

Our instructors are available for consultancy if you are planning an ocean passage, or have any other yachting questions. They can advise you on passage planning, ports to visit, sail plans and power needs. An on board sail and yacht inspection will allow a comprehensive report on your proposed cruise to be produced.

• 5 Week Entry Level – Super Yacht Deckhand
• RYA Competent Crew Practical
• RYA Day Skipper Theory
• RYA Day Skipper Practical
• RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Offshore Theory
• RYA Coastal Skipper Practical
• The RYA VHF Radio Operation SRC (Short Range Certificate)
• RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
• RYA Powerboat Level II
• Mile Building
• Examination Preparation & RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Practical Exam
• RYA Day Skipper Package
• RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Package
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Package
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Package
• Upgrade to RYA Yachtmaster Coastal
• Upgrade to RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• Upgrade from RYA Yachtmaster Offshore to RYA Yachtmaster Ocean
• 4 Days Super Yacht Deckhand Course
• ENG1 MCA Seafarers Medical
• Commercial Requirements – STCW, ENG1 and RYA PPR
• Course Calendar

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal

This advanced theoretical course in navigation and meteorology will help you to set out onto the open waters enabling you to make key decisions as a competent Yachtsman keeping the yacht safe and enjoyable as you set off on longer passages.

The RYA Yachtmaster Coastal / Offshore Theory course is an advanced course in Chartwork, Navigation, Meteorology and Tides for candidates of the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore Exams.

THIS COURSE PERTAINS TO SAIL AND POWER

Pre-course requirements:

This course assumes knowledge of the RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical Level and so ideally, we would like you to have at least the equivalent of Day Skipper in Sailing or Motor experience on a Yacht smaller than24m/72ft and smaller than 200gt, before allowing you to move on to the Coastal / Offshore Theory Modules.

Duration: 7 days

Course Fees Include:

Training material for the week, if applicable.

The use of books, tools and equipment necessary for training:

• RYA Training Almanac (Southern Hemisphere)
• South African List of Lights and Radio Signals
• Symbols and Abbreviations used on South African Charts
• International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs)

We will also provide you with the following which you will be able to keep:

• Personal Logbook
• Yachtmaster Sailing School pen and pencil
• 72-page blank quad exercise book
• Blank almanac pages for theory.

You will have full use of RYA Reference Books and navigation equipment.

Course Fees Exclude:

• Accommodation and meals for shore-based courses, time off and any time in Cape Town apart from when on board for a practical course.

Course Content includes:

• Positions and circle of uncertainty
• Magnetic compass
• Tides and tidal streams
• Buoyage and lights
• Secondary Ports
• Electronic navigational aids/ echo sounders / logs and deck log
• Meteorology and Weather forecasts
• International Regulations for the Prevention at Collision at Sea
• Safety at Sea
• Conduct and behavior of vessels operating in or near conditions of restricted visibility
• Passage Planning
• Marine environment

Please note:

Students are required to bring the following on their first day with Yachtmaster Ocean Sailing School:

• R1,500.00 CASH deposit /security for any loss or damage to yachts, equipment etc. At the end of your training, if no loss or damage has been noted, the deposit will be returned to you in cash.
• R100 CASH deposit for a temporary access card to Royal Cape Yacht Club. Students are requested to make their way directly to the reception on their first day and pay the deposit and receive the card. At the end of your training, please return the card to Reception where the deposit will be returned to you.
• Colour passport photographs for the following certificates: SRC Radio, RYA Day Skipper Practical, RYA Coastal Skipper Practical, Prep & Exam (x2), Commercial Endorsement Application, RYA Powerboat level 2.
• A sleeping bag for practical courses, alternatively this can be ordered and purchased from Yachtmaster and will be ready for you on your arrival. Costs R500.
• Foul weather clothing, for practical on-board courses, alternatively this can be ordered and purchased from Yachtmaster and will be ready for you on your arrival. (10% discount offered only to our booked students).

We recommend the following accommodation on shore:

• Sunflower Stop Backpackers
• Never@Home Backpackers
• Atlantic Point Backpackers

Need Assistance? Contact Us!