RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Course Syllabus

The Essential Navigation and Seamanship course provides an introduction to the basic skills required before taking a small boat to sea or taking an active part in the navigational planning and general running of a boat. This course is delivered online with materials supplied by Nomad Sailing.

Charts, Publications and Terms

Basic terms

Chart overview

Introduction to chart datum and depths

Buoyage

Lateral buoys

Cardinal buoys

Where to find information

Navigation

Plotting a position

Measuring distance and bearing

Position fix

Heading

Safety

Personal and Boat Safety Equipment

Safety procedures and briefing

Communications

Engine checks

Rescue procedures

Anchoring

Where to anchor

How to anchor

Tides

Tidal streams

Tidal heights

Electronic navigation

GPS terms

GPS use

Using waypoints

Rules of the Road

Risk of collision

Who gives way

Weather Forecasts

Sources of forecast

Terms used in forecast

Sea state

Pilotage

Harbour information

Transits

Pilotage plan

Passage Planning

SOLAS V requirements

Pre-planning

Chart choice

Important Links

Practical Cources

Theory Courses

Course Dates

Holidays/Charter

Learning Zone

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