Sailing

VHF Radio GMDSS Short Range Certificate includes basic radio operation. Passing this course authorises the holder to use a radiotelephone on the VHF international frequencies of the maritime mobile band for voice communication. Course leading to Home Office certificate.

RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Course - Introductory course on navigation and safety awareness for new, inexperienced or rusty skippers and crew. Suitable for anyone interested in sailing, motor boating, sea angling or diving. Fee includes RYA course pack and assessment. Ideal preparation for students wishing to undertake the RYA Day Skipper Certificate course.

RYA Day Skipper Certificate (Theory) - Basic course in navigation, safety, seamanship, pilotage, meteorology and boat management to intermediate level. Fee includes course books and assessment papers.
What Subjects will I study?

Basic seamanship, the essentials of coastal navigation and pilotage, chartwork, electronic charts, position fixing, plotting a course to steer, weather forecasting and meteorology, tides, collision regulations, construction, parts and equipment of a cruising boat, emergency and safety procedures including distress calls, use of flares, safety harnesses, lifejackets and life rafts.

Position fixing, course shaping and plotting, tidal knowledge, use of almanacs and admiralty publications, electronic position finding equipment, taking and interpreting forecasts, plotting weather systems, weather predictions using a barometer and by observation, basics of radio operation, the correct frequencies (channels) to be used, making ship to shore telephone calls, Digital Selective Calling (DSC) using simulators, Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS).