RYA/MCA Ocean
Theory

"Ivan delivered a fantastic course and his enthusiasm and knowledge was outstanding. I conducted this course over zoom and despite the challenges of teaching it via this format he was still able to deliver an excellent product. Ivan has a great knowledge of celestial navigation and the course material, handouts and format of the course are all great. "

Other Navigation Courses

RYA/MCA Ocean Theory

The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is the ultimate achievement within the RYA shorebased scheme. For those seeking the coveted RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence, this is often the first step. If you are planning to cross oceans, or just dreaming of it, this course is also suited for you. For those that romanticised about navigating using the sun and the stars, this is your chance to learn. By the end of the course, you will have all the necessary knowledge to start planning your own ocean passage. In this course, you will unravel the mysteries of celestial navigation and be able to find a position and calibrate your compass using just your sextant and a set of tables. .

Beyond celestial navigation, we will cover worldwide meteorology, routeing charts, obtaining forecasts whilst at sea away from VHF range. We will also look at key publications, charts and guides needed to plan and execute an ocean passage successfully.

What is Next?

After completing and passing this shorebased course, you will be ready for your ocean passage. If you then aspire to gain your RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence, if you already hold the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence, you can apply to be examined by an RYA Ocean examiner.

This course is also recognised by the MCA (UK’s Maritime and Coastalguard Agency), which regulates qualifications in most vessels in the Superyacht industry.  Those looking to work and progress in RYA/MCA commercial ladder will need to take this course at some point. 

Prerequisites:

• Knowledge equivalent to Yachtmaster Theory and significant practical experience.

• This is a highly technical course which involves complex concepts and numerical calculations. Please check with us prior to booking to see if this will be suitable for you.

Delivery Methods:

• Classroom*: 6-Days either Mon-Saturday or 2x weekends and evenings (total of 40 hours), plus one evening for review and one for exams.

• E-Learning: In partnership with Navathome. The course takes around 40 hours in total to complete, but it is structured so you can work at your own pace. Additional support via Zoom is available at an additional cost.

  * These courses includes a practical session of approx. 3 hours to learn to use the sextant (weather dependent, based in Sydney). For e-learning students, a practical session can be offered for an additional charge, please get in touch for more details.

Supporting Materials

"What's included in the course?"

• Coursepack includes all tables and a handbook.

• Further support material will be supplied electronically. 

Prices & Time Commitment