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RYA Coastal Skipper Yachtmaster Distance Learning Course
The Online Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Theory Course from BOSS Sailing provides advanced navigation and passage planning training for experienced sailors and motor cruisers preparing for coastal and offshore skippering.
Designed for students progressing beyond RYA Day Skipper level, the course develops the theoretical knowledge required for more demanding coastal and offshore passages, including advanced pilotage, meteorology, passage planning and navigation techniques. Students learn how to plan and execute longer passages safely and confidently while improving their understanding of tidal strategy, weather systems and offshore decision-making.
Flexible online learning allows students to study from home and progress through the syllabus at a pace that suits their schedule, while still benefiting from professional instructor support throughout the course. The training is suitable for sailors preparing for Coastal Skipper practical training, Yachtmaster preparation or extended offshore cruising.
Delivered by BOSS Sailing, an established RYA Recognised Training Centre based at Hamble Point Marina, the course combines professional tuition, structured online learning and practical navigation exercises designed to prepare students for real offshore cruising and advanced skippering responsibilities.
Postage is free of charge within the UK. There is an additional £20 courier charge for any country outside of the UK.
Pre-course Experience
The Online Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Theory Course is designed for experienced sailors and motor cruisers wanting to develop advanced navigation and offshore passage planning skills.
It is particularly suitable for:
Day Skippers progressing towards Coastal Skipper
Yachtmasters in preparation
Offshore cruising sailors
Motor cruisers undertaking longer passages
Yacht owners
Skippers planning cross-Channel cruising
Sailors preparing for Yachtmaster Offshore
Experienced crew progressing towards command
The course assumes students already possess navigation knowledge equivalent to RYA Day Skipper Theory level.
Course Syllabus
The course is completed online, allowing students to study flexibly from home while progressing through advanced navigation exercises and theoretical modules at their own pace.
Throughout the course students will develop advanced knowledge and understanding of:
• Offshore navigation techniques
• Advanced tidal calculations
• Passage planning
• Weather systems and forecasting
• Pilotage in restricted visibility
• Electronic navigation systems
• Chartwork and position fixing
• Collision regulations
• Safety and emergency procedures
• Offshore passage strategy
• Meteorology
• Advanced seamanship
Training focuses on developing confident and practical offshore navigation skills suitable for coastal and offshore cruising.
From: £295
Additional Information
Everything You Need Before You Sail
Get your joining pack for practical details, what to bring, and what to expect on your course.
FAQs
Find out answers to frequently asked questions
No previous sailing experience is needed. The RYA Competent Crew course is designed for complete beginners, and your instructor will guide you through everything step by step. By the end of the course, you should feel confident helping to sail the yacht, handling ropes, steering and taking part in everyday life on board. All you need to bring is a willingness to learn and get involved. visit our Training or Learn to Sail page for skill‑level requirements.
We recommend comfortable clothing, non‑slip shoes, sunscreen, and any personal items you may need. A full checklist is available on our Preparation page.
Our cancellation and refund terms are outlined on the Terms & Conditions page. If you have questions about rescheduling, our Contact page is the best place to get quick assistance.
We provide a range of sailing experiences including private charters, training, and corporate events.
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