Overview
The RYA Day Skipper Shorebased course is the theory part of the Royal Yachting Association's Day Skipper certificate. The other part is a separate Day Skipper practical course, taken on a sail or motor yacht, and the certificate is endorsed accordingly. This page covers the shorebased theory course and its exam.
Who can apply
The RYA page gives no formal entry requirement for the theory course, only that some practical experience is desirable.
Exam pattern
The theory course is delivered online or in a classroom. It lasts at least 40 hours, plus the theory exam. However the course is delivered, the exam must be invigilated at an RYA training centre. The public page does not give the number of papers, questions or the pass mark.
After the exam
To use the Day Skipper certificate for work on a commercial craft covered by the MCA's codes of practice, it must be commercially endorsed. To be eligible for endorsement you need the Shorebased course with an invigilated exam and the practical course. The endorsement allows work on commercial vessels up to 24 m in length in category 5 and 6 waters, meaning up to 20 miles from a nominated departure point in fine weather and daylight.
How to apply
Book the course through an RYA training centre; the RYA site has a course finder. Exam payments are handled through the RYA.
FAQs
Do I need to take the practical Day Skipper course as well?
The shorebased course is the theory part only. For commercial endorsement you need both the Shorebased course with an invigilated exam and the practical course.
How long does the Day Skipper theory course take?
At least 40 hours plus the theory exam, delivered online or in a classroom.