Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course

Event Details

Unlock the magic of Celestial navigation with the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course!

During the course, which is a mixture of classroom and practical sextant use, our expert instructor will teach you what to do step by step so that you understand “why” you’re doing it, and can then confidently put it into practice when on board.

You will look at at passage planning, astro-navigation and worldwide meteorology, as well as exploring and solving the mysteries of the use of a sextant!

Find your way in any situation: Even the best GPS equipment may break down or malfunction. If your boat’s GPS fails while you are out on the open water, celestial navigation can help you find your way. Star navigation may also come in handy when boating in sight of land without a GPS onboard. When the sun goes down, and you can no longer see those once familiar landmarks, stellar navigation will point you towards the shore.

Expand your knowledge of the world: Celestial navigation requires sufficient knowledge of stars and constellations. Mariners must be able to identify major stars and constellations and understand their movement in the sky. By learning how to navigate by stars, you expand your knowledge of the universe and learn more about how the world works.

Impress your friends: In addition to being useful and educational, star navigation is also fun. You’ll impress your friends with your ability to navigate using stars and can even share this fascinating art with them.

Despite modern innovations that allow for highly accurate navigation, navigating using stars remains a valuable and enjoyable skill. When you know how to navigate using the stars, you can always find your way home on a starry night.

Course content

• The Earth & the celestial sphere
• The PZX triangle
• The sextant
• Measurement of time
• Meridian altitudes
• Sun, star & other sights
• Compass checking
• Satellite navigation
• Great circle sailing
• Meteorology
• Passage planning
• Passage making
• Communications

Pre-course experience / requirements

Assumes knowledge of all subjects covered in previous shorebased courses (e.g. YM Offshore shorebased)

**Course includes the Ocean Theory Written Exam (not final oral exam)

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean certificate is also a pre-requisite for the MCA’s Chief Mate, Master 500 and Master 3000 qualifications.