RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship - Shorebased Theory Course

Aim: Help you become more competent, knowledgeable and safer on the water.

This course will give a basic understanding of navigation and seamanship afloat which is essential for anyone skippering or crewing a small boat at sea. It forms a solid foundation on which to build your knowledge so that your time afloat can be spent safely.

Essential Navigation & Seamanship Shorebased Theory Course Syllabus

The Essential Navigation and Seamanship course provides an introduction to the basic skills required before taking a small boat to sea or taking an active part in running a boat.

In addition as well as a 2 Day Theory Course this course will also be accessible on line via RYA Interactive learning. If you are interested in doing this course on line please 'Contact Us'. If you would like a free taster then go here.   

Then proceed to register for your On Line Interactive Account which can be used for other on line theory courses too like the Overseas Inland Waters CEVNI Test or for  VHF Preparation. After reciept of your 'Contact Us' form and course fee we can issue an enrolment key to use your interactive account for this course. However you may try the free taster from here first without any commitment.

'On Line Theory Courses'

Charts, publications and terms

Basic terms, Chart overview, introduction to chart datum and depths

Buoyage

Lateral buoys, Cardinal buoys, Where to find information

Navigation

Plotting a poition, Measuring distance and bearing, Position Fix, Heading

Safety

Personal and boat safety equipment, Safety procedures and briefing, Communications, Engine checks, Rescue procedures

Anchoring

Where to anchor, How to anchor

Tides

Tidal streams, Tidal heights

Electronic Navigation

GPS terms, GPS use, Using waypoints

Rules of the Road

Risk of collision, Who gives way

Weather Forecasts

Sources of weather forecast, Terms used in weather forecast, Sea state

Pilotage

Harbour information, Transits, Pilotage plan

Passage Planning

SOLAS V requirements, Preplanning, Chart choice

Ability After Course

A basic understanding of navigation and safety afloat.

Pre Course Experience

Non / Reference Books

Duration

2 Study days, typically one weekend

What's Next ?

RYA Competent Crew Practical

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