How to Get RYA Day Skipper Certification

RYA Day Skipper Certification provides you with a solid basis for all of the essential aspects of sailing a boat during the day and in sight of land. Additionally, the certification allows you to charter boats almost anywhere and qualifies you to work as crew.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Get some time on the water. Basic sailing experience is not necessary to complete the RYA Day Skipper course and get certification. However, familiarity with the feeling of a sailboat's motion and some basic skills and terminology will make your certification process a lot more effective.

2. Take the theory class. The RYA offers a 40-hour theory class for the day skipper qualification. The class is a supplement to the practical and is not a requirement. However, the theory class gives a well rounded preparation for most advanced certification as well as giving you the day skipper theory certificate.

3. Prepare for the course. The RYA Day Skipper course is five days or three weeknds and requires that you live aboard the boat that you learn on. So, plan in advance so you can clear the amount of time needed to travel to the training center and get the certification. Also, get a copy of the official RYA Day Skipper paperback to brush up on skills and terms before you start the course.

4. Complete the practical. To finish the course you need to complete the practical course. The course is five days, done consecutively, split into three weekends or done in a three day and a two day chunk. You will have to sail about 100 miles, take night watches and pilot the boat into and out of harbors. Upon completion of the course you will have RYA Day Skipper Certification.