RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory
Each of our Fastrak to Ocean Yachtmaster courses starts with 4 days in the classroom covering all the necessary theoretical subjects required and at the end of this shore based period you will sit the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean theory exam. This involves resolving celestial navigation problems, ocean weather patterns and passage planning - all great preparation for your Yachtmaster Ocean qualifying passage.
Yachtmaster Ocean Qualifying Passage
Following on from the Yachtmaster Ocean theory element of the course you will then join our category 0 ocean going yacht to complete your ocean qualifying passage. Ocean passages start in Hamble, North West Spain, the Canaries, Antigua and the Azores depending on the time of year. On joining the yacht you will be fully involved in preparation and planning for the passage including victaulling, safety preparations, vessel checks, weather forecast co ordination, watch keeping systems and crew briefing. You will take on the role of watch leader during the passage; being responsible for running your watch within the watch keeping system. You will also maintain your own navigation log using a sextant and celestial navigation techniques learned and practised in the classroom. Throughout the passage you will maintain a full record of the yachts position derived from the sights you take. This will normally involve a series of the following; Meridian passages (noon sights), Planet sights, moon sights and where possible star plans and sights. This will form the basis of the information submitted to the examiner as part of your RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean exam.
RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean examination
In order to gain the Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competency, you will need to pass an oral exam. This can be taken immediately after the passage if required and we are happy to assist with arranging your exam either in the UK of, if required, overseas (where possible).