RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory
The highest level of navigation – for offshore and ocean passages
Take your navigation skills to the ultimate level and prepare for ocean crossings. The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is the most advanced shorebased course in the RYA scheme, focusing on celestial navigation and long-distance passage planning.
This course is designed for experienced sailors aiming to navigate safely across oceans — even without relying on electronic systems like GPS.
Learn from anywhere
This online theory course is delivered in English and can be completed flexibly at your own pace. You get access to the interactive Navathome learning platform, including animated lessons, exercises and online assessments.
The course includes the official RYA Ocean training pack, which is delivered to your home, and provides all necessary materials for celestial navigation and ocean passage planning – € 465,-.
Dein Kontakt
Falls Du Fragen zu unseren Angeboten hast, melde Dich bitte bei uns! Wir sind am liebsten persönlich für Dich da
Course information
The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course is aimed at advanced sailors preparing for bluewater cruising and ocean passages.
It builds on Yachtmaster Offshore knowledge and introduces the principles of astro navigation, worldwide meteorology and long-distance passage planning.
The course equips you with the theoretical skills required to navigate across oceans independently and confidently.
Certificate issuing criteria
Able to plan and execute coastal and offshore passages, with a thorough understanding of advanced navigation, weather interpretation and passage making.
Code of Conduct
Able to plan and execute ocean passages worldwide, including celestial navigation and long-distance passage making.
Next step: practical training
After completing the theory course, you can progress towards the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence. This requires offshore experience, a qualifying ocean passage and an oral examination.
The Yachtmaster Ocean qualification allows you to skipper a yacht on passages of any length, worldwide.
All RYA courses are conducted in english language
in cooperation with our partner:
Course Content
- Celestial navigation (sun, moon, stars)
- The sextant and sight reduction
- The Earth and celestial sphere
- Ocean passage planning
- Worldwide meteorology
- Compass checking and accuracy
- Position fixing without electronic aids
- Ocean communication and routing
Included
- Access to the online course (typically 6 months)
- Online exercises and final assessment
- Official RYA Ocean training pack (charts, tables, materials)
- Instructor support
- RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Certificate after completion
Good to know
- Course language: English
- Format: Online self-study
- Learning time: approx. 40 hours plus exam
- Prerequisites: Knowledge at Yachtmaster Offshore level required
- Ideal next step: RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence
€ 465,-
