RYA Radar Course

This training course will teach you to use radar for navigation and collision avoidance after showing you how to correctly tune a radar set. 

RYA approved radar simulators are used to promote the realism of the training. Using the radar simulator we can generate scenarios that develop in realtime to enable you to practice your new skills of Radar plotting and CPA calculations with our specialist RYA radar instructor on hand to assist you while you master your radar skills.

Having a good understanding of how to use radar for navigation and collision avoidance as well as a strong understanding generally of electronic navigation aids is critical to safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Understanding how a radar set functions also adds to your overall safety and wellbeing on the water, as well as that of others around you.

Course duration - The minimum duration of the RYA Radar course is one day and is suitable for both yachtsmen and motor boaters. This RYA course gives an insight to the uses of radar to assist in navigation and aid in collision avoidance.

Pre-course knowledge - Students should be familiar with modern maritime navigation techniques and have a sound knowledge of the IRPCS.

RYA Radar Training Centre

Availability & Dates

RYA Radar Course Syllabus 

1. Basic understanding of radar wave propagation

  •           Conditions giving rise to abnormal propagation 

2. Radar set components

  •           Function and correct use of controls
  •           Correct setting up procedure 

3. Target definition and discrimination

  •           Spot size, pulse length and beam width
  •           Target characteristics, size, shape, material
  •           False echoes
  •           Shadow sectors, shadow diagram

 4. Radar reflectors

  •           Passive and active


5. Types of radar display

  •           Azimuth stabilization

6. Radar plotting

  •           The use of radar to avoid a close quarter situation
  •           Appreciation of IRPCS, action to be taken in reduced visibility
  •           General precautions and action to be taken in fog 

7. Use of radar as an aid to navigation

  •           Radar-conspicuous targets, need for positive identification
  •           Parallel indexing (if provided)

8. Accuracy in range and bearing

  •           PPI distortion. Non-linearity
  •           Heading marker alignment
  •           Checking accuracy of VRM, EBL etc 

9. General safety precautions in using equipment

Step 1 Select your course duration

This course is available in the following durations

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Step 2 Select your dates

Your 1 Day RYA Radar Course

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Step 3 Add participant(s)

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1 Day RYA Radar Course