RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

(Advanced Ocean Navigation & Passage Planning)

Course Overview

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is an advanced navigation and passage-planning programme designed for experienced offshore sailors preparing for long-distance and ocean passages. The course builds on Yachtmaster Offshore theory knowledge and develops the advanced skills required to plan and navigate ocean voyages, with particular emphasis on celestial navigation and global passage planning.

This is a shore-based theory course and does not include practical sailing or examination.

Theory Content

• Principles of ocean navigation and worldwide positioning
• Celestial navigation fundamentals
• Use of sextant
• Sun sights: latitude by meridian passage and position lines
• Introduction to star navigation and identification
• Sight reduction using tables and calculations
• Ocean passage planning and routing strategies
• Great circle and composite sailing
• Ocean currents and set and drift
• Meteorology for ocean passages, including global weather systems
• Passage safety, watchkeeping, and fatigue management
• Emergency planning and offshore risk management

Course Objectives & Expected Outcomes

On completion of the course, candidates will be able to:

• Understand and apply the principles of celestial navigation
• Plan safe and efficient ocean passages
• Calculate and plot ocean navigation positions
• Interpret global weather patterns affecting ocean crossings
• Demonstrate the theoretical knowledge required for Yachtmaster Ocean level navigation

This course provides the theoretical foundation required before progressing to ocean qulifying passage and the Yachtmaster Ocean oral examination.

Course Duration

• Total duration: 5 days
• Delivery format: Classroom-based instruction
• Daily schedule: Typically full working days
• Assessment: Continuous instructor assessment and course exercises
• Formal Written examination is conducted as part of this course

Student Requirements & Prerequisites

Mandatory Prerequisite

• Theory knowledge to RYA Yachtmaster Offshore standard

Recommended

• Previous offshore sailing experience
• Familiarity with chartwork, tides, and IRPCS at Yachtmaster Offshore level

Candidates With No Prior Courses or Experience

• This course is not suitable for candidates without prior navigation theory knowledge
• Candidates without Yachtmaster Offshore theory must complete:
  • RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course (or equivalent knowledge) before attending

Certification

• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course Completion Certificate
• Certificate confirms theoretical training only and is not a Certificate of Competence