In this course, we aim to develop and refine the practical skills and safety procedures that will be tested in a Yachtmaster examination. 

You will take it in turns to practice essential boat handling skills to make sure the procedures employed are the best practice.

We also work through and drill simulated safety and emergency procedures.

Course programme 

During the week, you will practice boat handling under power and sail, drill emergency procedures such as man overboard and restricted visibility navigation, and execute pilotage and navigation exercises by day and night.

We will use various coaching techniques to ensure you get plenty of time to develop the skills expected of a Yachtmaster. 

Training runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. There will also be night training exercises on Tuesday. See the draft schedule below.

• Mon - YM boat handling skills 
• Tue - YM boat handling skills/night exercise
• Wed - YM boat handling skills 
• Thu - YM pilotage and navigation exercises
• Fri - YM pilotage and navigation exercises 

Theory knowledge

The companion week to this course is the Yachtmaster Shore-based Theory course, which covers all the theory knowledge required at this level.

Location and sailing conditions 

You will practice your skills in and around Sydney Harbour, although you are likely to venture a little way offshore for various drills.

The yacht and the instructor 

This week will be run on board one of our RYA-approved Beneteau 40.7 cruiser-racer yachts by an accredited RYA Instructor.

• Tuition, logbook, pre-course reading.
• Life jackets and safety harnesses are provided, and we can loan you wet weather clothing if required.
• All vessels have an enclosed bathroom on board.
• Please bring your own lunch and snacks.
• We provide tea, coffee and pizza takeaway before the night training exercise. 

Qualifications and experience 

• 150 sea miles logged
• Logbook skills for Yachtmaster

• You hold the RYA Day Skipper practical certificate or have equivalent experience.
• You are a competent navigator, probably having attended the Yachtmaster Shorebased Theory course.

• Subject to your seatime and theory knowledge, you may now be ready to go on to our Yachtmaster Prep and Exam week.