A comprehensive introduction to chart work, navigation and the basics of seamanship. This is an elementary course, suitable for beginners and people with little experience. You will find this course invaluable if you want to learn how to start making decisions on board and if you are considering taking the Day Skipper practical course.

The course includes exercises, which will mostly be done as homework – you should allow sufficient time for this. There are also 2 assessment papers to be sat during the course.

As you will be based in the Yacht Club, you will meet like-minded Club Members whose passion is boating. Many skippers are looking for crew to club race and rallying and if you become a Member you can join the Crew Register and get an opportunity to sail on these craft.

The course fee includes all training materials from the RYA. However, you will require your own plotting equipment – a Breton/Portland or Parallel Rules and a set of Dividers. You can either purchase these from a local chandler or on line.

Pre Course Experience: None Required

Course Duration: 40 hours plus 2 exams

Times: 5 x Sundays (09:00 -17:00)

Dates: 22nd November 2026, 6th & 20th December 2026, 10th & 24th January 2027