Cardiff Yacht Club

For centuries, sailors have guided their ships across oceans using celestial navigation or nautical astronomy. The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course teaches advanced techniques to those aspiring towards blue water cruising. This course will introduce you to the principles of astro navigation, the practical use of a sextant, measurement of time, compass checking, and position fixing by the sun.

An element of preparation and planning is needed for even the shortest of journeys. Whether you’re just starting out on the water or looking to refresh your knowledge, the RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is great way to boost your skillset. This course offers an introduction to navigation, tides, charts, and safety awareness and can be taken either online or in person, giving you the option to learn at a pace that suits you.

RYA Day Skipper Theory is a theory-based course aimed at prospective yacht skippers and inexperienced crew looking to boost their knowledge and skillset. The course itself offers a comprehensive introduction to chartwork, navigation, meteorology, and the basics of seamanship. Its goal is to help prepare you in making the key decisions needed onboard to skipper a small vessel in familiar waters.

The RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course is an advanced shore-based program for experienced sailors. Topics include complex navigation, advanced meteorology, and passage planning in tidal waters. Participants also learn about collision regulations and safety protocols for offshore passages. This course is essential for those preparing for the Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.