Coastal Skipper Preparation & RYA/MCA Exam

The RYA / MCA Coastal Skipper Certificate of Competence is a logical progression for anyone who has completed the RYA Coastal Skipper Course. A Coastal Skipper should have the knowledge needed to skipper the yacht on coastal passages, by day or night, but does not necessarily have the experience to undertake longer passages.

Exam Preparation Courses are delivered by fully qualified RYA Yachtmaster Instructors, who are all extremely experienced in delivering this type of training.

The week will comprise of an assessment day, whereby the instructor, albeit in an informal manner, will gauge where your strengths and weaknesses lie. The rest of the week will be spent on improving weak areas in order to best prepare you for the exam.

During the week, you will take command of the yacht on short passages, by day and night. You will be required to navigate in a seamanlike manner, with both efficiency and safety. Your instructor will give you guidance and coaching on boat handling techniques, and how to confidently handle a yacht under sail in a confined space.

Examiners expect a high level of expertise, particularly in safety critical exercises such as man overboard, or sailing down wind. Your instructor will also ensure that the theory subjects, particularly meteorology, IRPCS, buoyage and passage planning are not new to you.
At the end of the week, you will be given an honest debrief, leaving you confident in your own ability, taking the exam if you feel ready to do so.

After 5 days the instructor will get off, and an Examiner from the RYA will step onboard to conduct the exam. Each student will be examined on how they skipper the yacht on short passages, and complete various other tasks.