MCA/RYA Yachtmaster™ Offshore (Preparation and Exam)
The MCA/RYA Yachtmaster™ Offshore qualification is recognised and respected worldwide. This course enables candidates to prepare for an exam covering refresher training in key maritime areas, culminating in an assessment with an external RYA examiner. Enables skippering of yachts up to 150 miles from safe haven.
Course Overview
The MCA/RYA Yachtmaster™ Offshore qualification is the most widely recognised and respected yachting qualification in the world. Holding a Yachtmaster certificate demonstrates that you have the knowledge, experience and competence to skipper a yacht safely on extended coastal and offshore passages.
This course combines intensive preparation training with an examination conducted by an independent external RYA examiner. During the preparation phase, our experienced RYA Yachtmaster Instructors will refresh and consolidate your skills, identify any areas that need attention, and build your confidence for the exam.
Preparation Phase
The preparation days are designed to bring your practical skills up to the standard required for the Yachtmaster examination. You will be assessed and coached on all aspects of seamanship and navigation, with particular focus on:
- Passage planning and execution
- Pilotage by day and night
- Boat handling under sail and power in confined waters
- Man overboard recovery under sail
- Anchoring and mooring techniques
- Safety procedures and emergency management
- Use of electronic and traditional navigation aids
- Meteorology and weather routing
Your instructor will provide honest feedback and tailor the preparation to address any weaknesses before the exam.
The Examination
The Yachtmaster Offshore exam is conducted by an independent RYA examiner over approximately 8–12 hours, including a substantial night passage. The examiner will assess your ability to:
- Plan and execute a passage
- Navigate accurately using visual, electronic and traditional methods
- Handle the yacht safely in all conditions
- Demonstrate sound seamanship and decision-making
- Manage crew and deal with emergencies
- Apply the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
What You'll Achieve
On successful completion, you will hold the MCA/RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence, enabling you to skipper a yacht on passages up to 150 miles from a safe haven. The certificate can be commercially endorsed, allowing you to skipper commercial vessels up to 150 miles from safe haven carrying up to 12 passengers on vessels under 300 gross tonnes.
VHF Radio Requirement
You must hold a valid VHF/DSC Short Range Certificate (SRC) before sitting the Yachtmaster exam. If you do not already hold one, we offer the SRC course online with a practical exam at our training centre.
Frequently Asked Questions
What experience do I need for Yachtmaster Offshore?
You need 50 days and 2,500 miles of sailing, at least 5 passages over 60 miles including 2 as skipper and 2 overnight, 5 days as skipper, at least half in tidal waters, all within 10 years.
What is the difference between Coastal and Offshore?
Yachtmaster Offshore requires significantly more sea time and demonstrates competence over longer passages, further from the coast, and in more challenging conditions. It is the standard professional qualification.
What does the preparation week involve?
The preparation days focus on refining your skills to exam standard — advanced pilotage, passage planning, boat handling under pressure, and seamanship. Your instructor will identify areas that need work.
What happens during the exam?
The exam is conducted by an independent RYA examiner over approximately 8 to 10 hours. It covers navigation, pilotage, boat handling, and oral questions on safety and seamanship at a higher standard than Coastal.
Do I stay on the yacht?
Yes — you live on board for the full week including the exam day. Offshore passages may take you further afield depending on weather and conditions.
What if I need to cancel?
Please see our terms and conditions for our cancellation policy. As the exam fee is paid directly to the RYA examiner, separate cancellation terms may apply for the exam element.
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