The aim of the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course (also known as RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory) is to take your navigation and meteorology knowledge to the standard required for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore practical exams. It's a comprehensive shorebased course covering everything from position fixing to interpreting weather forecasts, giving you the confidence to plan and navigate extended coastal and offshore passages.

Required previous experience

Participants should have knowledge to the level of the RYA Day Skipper Theory course. There is no minimum age requirement, but we recommend anyone unsure whether this course is right for them to give us a call to talk through their previous experience.

Method of learning

This is a shorebased course that can be taken in the classroom, online or by distance learning.

Shore-based learning

• Position fixing

  • Using a range of techniques to establish an accurate position at sea

• Course shaping and plotting

  • Planning and plotting a course, taking into account tide, leeway and other factors

• Tidal knowledge

  • Understanding tidal streams, tidal heights and their effect on passage planning

• Publications

  • Use of almanacs and admiralty publications for planning and navigation

• Electronic navigation

  • Use of electronic position finding equipment as part of modern navigation

• Meteorology

  • Taking and interpreting weather forecasts, plotting weather systems and making weather predictions using a barometer

What the course enables you to do

This course is a prerequisite for anyone wishing to go on to complete an RYA Yachtmaster qualification, and is suitable for those looking to build the theory knowledge needed to skipper confidently on longer, more challenging passages by sail or power.