How to Choose the Best RYA Training Course for You

If you're looking to develop your boating skills, an RYA (Royal Yachting Association) training course is a great place to start. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced skipper looking to refine your skills, choosing the right course can make all the difference. Here’s how to find the perfect RYA training course for you.

1. Determine Your Experience Level

The RYA offers courses for all abilities, so it's essential to assess your current skill level before booking.

• Beginners – If you’re new to boating, courses like RYA Start Yachting or RYA Powerboat Level 1 are ideal introductions.
• Intermediate – If you have some experience but want to improve, consider courses such as RYA Competent Crew or RYA Powerboat Level 2.
• Advanced – For those looking to refine their skills or gain commercial qualifications, RYA Day Skipper, Yachtmaster, or Advanced Powerboat courses may be suitable.

2. Choose the Right Course Type

RYA training courses cover a variety of disciplines, including:

• Sailing – Courses such as RYA Competent Crew and Day Skipper focus on yacht handling.
• Powerboating – If you're interested in high-speed boats, RYA Powerboat Level 2 is a popular choice.
• Motor Cruising – For larger vessels, the RYA Helmsman and Day Skipper Motor courses are available.
• Personal Watercraft (Jet Ski) – The RYA Personal Watercraft course is ideal for jet ski users.
• Inland Waterways – Courses such as the Inland Waterways Helmsman are designed for narrowboat and canal cruising.

3. Consider Your Goals

Think about what you want to achieve from your training. Do you need a qualification for work? Are you learning for leisure? Some RYA courses, like Powerboat Level 2, allow you to obtain an ICC (International Certificate of Competence), which is useful if you plan to boat abroad.

4. Location and Training Centre

Choose an RYA-approved training centre that suits your location and needs. Some centres specialise in specific courses, while others offer a broad range of training. Make sure they have experienced instructors and well-maintained equipment.

5. Check Course Requirements

Before booking, check if there are any prerequisites for your chosen course. For example:

• RYA Day Skipper requires some prior experience and navigation knowledge.
• RYA Yachtmaster candidates need logged sea miles and advanced skills.

6. Look at Course Duration and Costs

Courses vary in length, from one-day taster sessions to week-long training programmes. Consider how much time and budget you can commit to training.

7. Book with Confidence

Once you’ve found the perfect course, book through an official RYA-recognised training centre to ensure high-quality instruction.

Start Your RYA Training Today

Choosing the right RYA course can open up a world of opportunities on the water. Whether you’re learning for fun or career progression, there’s a course to suit your needs. Find and book your ideal RYA training course today through Match Marine!

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