The yachtmaster qualifications are the ultimate test of a skipper. Getting the RYA Yachtmaster qualifications opens a world of possibilities as it greatly extends or completely removes the limitations on how far you can travel in the ocean. However, the ordeal of getting the qualifications is indeed quite brutal. In this article, let’s talk about the RYA Yachtmaster Courses, their prerequisites, and how you can achieve the ultimate ‘RYA Yachtmaster Ocean’ qualification in South Africa.
The RYA Yachtmaster Courses in South Africa
The RYA Yachtmaster qualifications journey begins with the Yachtmaster Coastal qualification. As this is an advanced certificate, you will be required to fulfil certain prerequisites before you take the exam. There is an official RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track course available at the RYA. However, you may also seek RYA-accredited marine institutes for a yachtmaster course.
Let’s dial back a little. What is the RYA Yachtmaster?
The RYA Yachtmaster Qualifications are a Certificate of Competence that allows a sailor to handle a sailing or a power boat under a variety of conditions. The Royal Yachting Association officially issues these certificates and thus, they are internationally recognised.
You can consider going for the Yachtmaster certificates after obtaining a Day Skipper qualification.
The Nature of the Yachtmaster Courses in South Africa
When we talk about Yachtmaster courses in South Africa, their main focus is to prepare you for the Yachtmaster examinations. As Yachtmaster qualifications are advanced qualifications, they have quite rigorous requirements.
The courses, or packages, aim to provide you with all the relevant courses to fulfil the pre-requirements. These requirements include the yachtmaster theory courses as well. Now, while RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore theory courses have the same syllabus, the Ocean theory differs. Currently, there are no Yachtmaster Ocean theory instructors in South Africa, so you may find institutions recommending you take the course online.
And lastly, there are also mile-building courses to fulfil the sea service prerequisite to appear for the Yachtmaster exams.
Related: RYA Yachtmaster Qualifications in South Africa
And how are the Yachtmaster Exams Conducted?
All the Yachtmaster exams, whether oral or practical, must be invigilated by an RYA examiner. Now, let’s see what an average Yachtmaster exam may look like.
The yachtmaster qualifications are the ultimate test of your skippering abilities. And it all begins with the following.
Navigation
As a skipper, you must understand how to skip your vessel. Thus, you must know your position reasonably accurately throughout the exam. This will include chart reading, plotting courses, and overseeing your position in the ocean to ensure safe navigation practices. During your examination, your examiner will give you practical problems.
Boat Handling
Boat handling is all about understanding how your boat will react, its turning circles, and how to handle the boat in certain situations. Your examiner expects you to display competence and a good understanding of how the boat will react under different conditions.
Man Overboard
Man overboard! You have been doing this since the beginning. However, the size and type of vessels mean you have to employ different methods for man overboard procedures.
Safety
Safety brief—every yachtmaster’s core knowledge set must include this. Display your safety knowledge and demonstrate safety measures whenever necessary. Show promptness in your actions with safety.
Meteorology
Meteorology is about understanding the climate and your course of action appropriate for the said climate. We highly recommend that you listen to the weather forecast before your examination. You are expected to show how you can plan effectively according to the forecast.
Remember, the weather is unpredictable, and so are the questions related to meteorology. There is rarely a correct answer; only the correct course of action that makes sense.
Skippering Ability
Skippering ability refers to the full control of your vessel. Whether you are fully in command of the yacht is the most important assessment that your examiner will make.
A good skipper displays full command over his/her vessel, communicates with the crew and makes the appropriate decisions to keep the vessel safe and sound.
Conclusion
As the ultimate test of a skipper’s skippering abilities, the Yachtmaster courses in South Africa are intense in nature. These courses will help you advance in your career and prepare you for the exam.
Furthermore, RYA also recommends undertaking an exam prep week before examinations.
If you are looking to take an RYA course/examination, you have come to the right place. Connect with us today, and we will guide you to the right course.