Who is the RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course for?

The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is an introduction to navigation and safety awareness for new or inexperienced skippers and crew, as well as people returning to boating who want to refresh their knowledge. It is relevant to sailing, motor boating, sea angling and diving, and complements practical training such as Powerboat Level 2 or Competent Crew.

The online course takes approximately 8–10 hours. There is no required previous experience or minimum age. Subjects include charts and publications, safety, engine checks, buoyage, tides, visual and electronic navigation, pilotage, collision regulations, anchoring, weather forecasts and passage planning.

You can study at your own pace, with interactive exercises to practise what you learn. See the official RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course page for the current syllabus.