How to Get RYA Coastal Skipper Certification

The RYA Coastal Skipper certification is an almost universal sailing credential that gives you all the knowledge and skill you need to skipper a boat along a coast. The certificate also shows potential employers and charter companies that you have what it takes to handle a boat on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Fulfill the prerequisites. The requirements for beginning the coastal skipper course are firm. You need to have 15 days aboard a vessel at sea with at least two of those days as skipper. You also need 300 logged miles and a very solid understanding and working knowledge of navigation.
2. Do the theory course. The coastal skipper theory component is the first step toward completing the course. You can do the theory course on its own at any one of the RYA training centers that offers the practical coastal skipper course. If you don't want to do the theory course in advance, you can take an extended, two week-long practical course that includes the theory component in addition to the practical.
3. Find a training center and reserve your spot. To get the RYA coastal skipper certification you need to book the class well in advance, clearing about six days for travel and the duration of the course. You can find a training center near to you by checking the RYA's website.
4. Consider the commercial certification. In addition to the regular coast skipper certification, the RYA offers a commercial version of the course. The commercial course has tougher requirements, such as 800 miles of logged cruising and an exam at the end of the course. The more stringent requirements, though, get you a commercial certificate that will help stream you into a maritime profession.