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Questions & Answers: RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory  


How much will it cost?

Around £500/$750/665 EUROS depending on when and where you take it for a classroom based course, though you can do an online course for as little as £300/$450/390 EUROS.

What will you get out of the course?

It enables you to do oceanic navigation and passage planning.

You will be able to navigate longer routes, using so-called Great Circle passage planning, and have the skills to plan and undertake a passage that may take you across oceans. 

What are your limits on passing the Yachtmaster Ocean Theory?

This is only a theory course and as such you must do the Yachtmaster Ocean practical course in order to take full advantage of the skills learned. If you complete this course you won’t have to do the written exam at the end of the Yachtmaster Ocean Practical course.

Where can you take the course?

If you do this course online there are no limits as to where you can do it, or in what country. Perhaps to fill the time while sailing between the Azores and Caribbean?!

What are the prerequisites before taking this course?

You should have at least the RYA Coastal Skipper certificate or be able to demonstrate the equivalent skills and experience.

How long does it take (duration)?

The course involves 40 hours of tuition. You can do this part time or full time as a condensed course.

What does the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean theory course involve?

You will learn the skills required to plan and execute a long distance, oceanic passage. You will learn advanced passage planning, as well as seamanship skills that will serve you well while potentially thousands of miles from rescue. You will cover astral navigation as well.

At the end of the course you will sit an exam.

How do I progress after completing it?

You should consider doing the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean practical course.

Does the course give you global accreditation?

Not immediately though with the full Yachtmaster Ocean qualification you can apply for UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency accreditation.

The qualification is recognised by yacht charter companies and government bodies all over the world and with it, you can charter a vessel or sail into most countries’ waters with minimal fuss.

Useful Resources - Where can I learn more about this course?

Take  alook at the officla RYA webpage.

The full syllabus can be found here.

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