An RYA Yachtmaster certificate of competence is often the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving ones experience and competence as a skipper.

Unlike other courses in the RYA cruising programme, there is no formal training (*) to complete in order to become a Yachtmaster. Many Yachtmaster candidates choose to book themselves into an RYA training centre for some tailor-made tuition to prepare them for the exam, but this is not compulsory.

Optional preparatory courses are available at Sailing Ventures and assume an ability to RYA/MCA Coastal Skipper level and consist of honing the skills of crew management, boat handling, pilotage and offshore navigation. These advance courses usually take place over a five-day period and will involve sailing and pilotage by day and night and the course can be tailored to suit your needs. Sailing Ventures would be pleased to discuss your requirements.