RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory (Online Course)
SKU RYACC-1-1-2-2
£245
Master the theory for RYA Yachtmaster Ocean from the comfort and convenience of your home, with expert instructors just a click away.
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Duration:
40–50 hours of online study at your own pace, with full tutor support.
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Experience:
RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Theory knowledge is required before starting. Suitable for experienced skippers preparing for long-distance or ocean passage making.
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Location:
Online - study anywhere, anytime.
Take your sailing knowledge to the highest level with our RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory online course. This advanced programme is designed to offer flexibility and convenience of online learning without compromising on the quality of instruction. You will study astro-navigation using the sun, moon, planets and stars, ocean meteorology, global weather systems, and ocean passage planning — all from the comfort of your home. Our expert instructors are just a click away, ready to provide personalised guidance and feedback to ensure your learning is effective and engaging. This course is the essential preparation for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam, giving you the confidence and specialist skills required to plan and navigate successful ocean passages anywhere in the world.
Overview
The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course gives you the advanced navigation and seamanship knowledge required for safe and successful ocean passage making. You’ll learn astro-navigation using the sun, moon, planets and stars, study global meteorology and weather routing, and develop detailed ocean passage plans. The course also covers electronic navigation systems, satellite communications, and emergency procedures for long offshore voyages. Delivered online for flexibility, the course provides interactive lessons and expert instructor support, ensuring you gain the confidence and specialist knowledge needed to undertake trans-oceanic passages. This is the recognised preparation for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam and the key step for anyone planning to sail across oceans or pursue professional sailing qualifications.
Key Points
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For experienced skippers progressing to the highest level of RYA navigation training.
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Advanced training in astro-navigation, ocean meteorology, and passage planning.
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Study celestial navigation with the sun, moon, planets, and stars.
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Flexible online format with 12 months’ access and full tutor support.
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Essential preparation for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam.
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Provides the specialist knowledge required for trans-oceanic cruising and professional sailing qualifications.
What's Included
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Full access to interactive online lessons and resources.
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RYA training materials (Ocean theory course pack, almanac, celestial navigation tables, plotting sheets, and course notes) delivered to your door.
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Direct tutor support and personalised feedback throughout the course.
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12 months’ course access with unlimited support and exam preparation.
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RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory certificate of completion.
What's Not Included
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Stationery (pencils, notebook, dividers, calculator, etc.)
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Optional extras such as sextants or electronic navigation software/apps
Course Syllabus
RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Syllabus
The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is the highest level of RYA navigation training, aimed at experienced skippers who want to develop the skills required for trans-oceanic passage making. It focuses on astro-navigation, ocean meteorology, global passage planning, and long-range safety procedures.
The Earth and the Celestial Sphere
Understands the principles of astro-navigation, including the movement of celestial bodies and how they can be used to determine position at sea.
The PZX Triangle
Can apply the concepts of the celestial triangle (PZX), local hour angle, declination, and latitude to calculate position.
The Sextant
Understands the construction, adjustment, and use of a marine sextant. Can take and reduce sextant sights with accuracy and correct for errors.
Measurement of Time
Understands the importance of accurate timekeeping in astro-navigation, including the use of chronometers, GMT/UT, and watch error.
Meridian Altitudes
Can calculate latitude from the meridian altitude of the sun or a star, and apply necessary corrections.
Sun, Moon, Planets, and Stars
Able to use celestial bodies to determine position at sea by day and night. Understands the theory and practice of calculating position lines from multiple sights.
Compass Checking
Understands methods of checking and correcting compass error using celestial observations.
Satellite Navigation Systems
Has knowledge of GPS and other satellite systems, their use and limitations on long-distance passages.
Great Circle Sailing
Understands the principles of great circle sailing and how to calculate courses and distances for ocean passages.
Meteorology
Can interpret global meteorological patterns, oceanic weather systems, and seasonal variations. Understands weather routing principles and the use of long-range forecasts.
Passage Planning
Can prepare detailed ocean passage plans, including route selection, provisions, fuel and water requirements, watchkeeping routines, and crew management. Understands emergency planning, yacht preparation, and management of systems on long voyages.
Communications
Understands the use of ocean communication systems including GMDSS, satellite communications, and weather information services.
Safety and Emergency Management
Understands the requirements for safety equipment, storm tactics, medical provision, and emergency management on long-range passages.
Register for the course
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