Students often ask for advice on how to prepare for the RYA Day Skipper theory and practical courses. You must first have completed the Day Skipper theory course on land or have the equivalent knowledge. Also, you must have completed the Competent Crew Course or at least have the knowledge equivalent to that level.
What you can do to prepare for Day Skipper course:
- First, take the theory course on shore
You must have completed the theory course prior to the practical. For information on a Day Skipper Course, visit a site like www.solentboattraining.co.uk/rya-sailing-courses/rya-day-skipper-practical-sailing
2. Get more experience on the water
You will also need some practical sailing experience. You should have had at least five sailing days before you take the RYA Day Skipper course. You will have a good foundation to build upon during the course.
You will be expected to have a level of competency in sailing equivalent to competent crew standard.
If you want to be really prepared, try to find a way to practice your sailing during the time between shore-based courses and practical ones. You should focus on boat handling, sail trimming and balance, as well as anchoring and docking skills. There are a variety of sailing trips available, from weekends up to longer cruises.
3. Pre-course reading will refresh and sharpen your knowledge
In the days before your course, you can improve your preparation by reading the Day Skipper Practical Course Notes.
It is important to have a solid understanding of navigation, seamanship and other skills that you learned during your theory course. However, it’s always good to refresh. You should read more about:
- Chartwork and pilotage
- Plan a passage
- Currents and tides
- Buoyage lights
- The Colregs
Refresh yourself on safety procedures.
- Safety equipment
- Emergency protocols
- Man-overboard recovery
Weather and meteorology basics plus:
- Weather forecasting
- Understanding weather systems
- Weather knowledge is useful for predicting the weather
