Ocean Youth Trust Scotland

Both sailing and motor boats increasingly have radar onboard. The International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea state that if you have a radar, you must know how to use it. Radar is probably the most versatile of all electronic navigation aids, but the best results are only obtained when you know how to use all of the functions correctly.

If you have a VHF radio onboard your boat, or even carry a handheld VHF whilst kayaking or paddle-boarding, you need to hold an operator’s licence. A radio is an important piece of safety equipment on board and it is vital to understand the correct procedures. The Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any British flagged vessel voluntarily fitted with a radio either fixed or hand held.

This practical course is a great way to get a feel for sailing and will teach you the fundamentals of how to steer a yacht under power, raise the sails, and handle ropes. This 2-day course assumes no previous experience, so it’s open to anyone over 16 years old or younger if accompanied by an adult. RYA Start Yachting will introduce you to the joys of sailing a cruising yacht.

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 Competent Crew is the essential starting point for your RYA training. The course introduces absolute beginners to the delights of sailing aboard a cruising yacht. Making it ideal for passengers wishing to become active crew members.

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.

Accidents happen when you least expect them. Thankfully serious incidents onboard are rare but getting to grips with basic first aid will ensure that everyone’s in good hands. Administering first aid at sea or even just afloat is very different to doing so on land.