Distance learning or Theory Correspondence Courses for RYA Dayskipper, Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore Navigation Courses

Most experienced instructors will tell you that the best way to take a theory course is in a classroom, with a good instructor and other pupils to interact with. There is no doubt that having someone on hand who can answer any questions or clarify a difficult point, is invaluable. Unfortunately, not everyone can afford the time to enroll in evening classes for 22 evenings or the 5 or 6 full days in a classroom needed for an intensive course. In addition to this, most courses run as evening classes are also held during the winter, it may not be convenient for you to wait until the start of the next course.

Whilst taking a theory course in the classroom may be the best option, the benefits are quickly lost if sessions are missed or you arrive late because of work pressures. If you have a very busy lifestyle, travel a lot or work unusual hours, the best approach may be the flexibility offered by taking an RYA navigation theory course by correspondence or distance learning.

With changes in technology, the quality of correspondence courses have improved greatly and contact with an instructor is greatly eased by the use of the internet. As a result, distance learning courses covering the RYA syllabus have become a viable option for many people, as they can be fitted in round a busy or irregular life style.

Before enrolling in a navigation correspondence course you should be realistic about the amount of time you will be able to find to study, ideally you should be able to set aside a regular period of time when you can concentrate on studying, if you are not able to do this, it can be difficult to commit to completing the course as you do not have anyone to chase you to complete work schedules. Self discipline is essential.

Study with a friend and save money!

If you decide that a theory course is the way to take your RYA navigation theory training, Teach-Me Interactive have an excellent range of courses at all levels, all backed up by experienced instructors. Their offer of a discount for purchasing two places on the same course has the benefit of giving you the option to have a friend to work with you, which can help you to set a study timetable and also to have someone to discuss your ideas with.

Having someone to work with can provide the extra impetus and support that ensures you complete the course, and can also offer a second insight in to any parts of the course you find to be extra challenging.

Practical course preparation

The full Day Skipper and Yachtmaster Coastal courses both have a theory and practical element. Those students who turn up for practical courses, and have not taken the relevant theory training already always struggle with those aspects of the course that are covered in the theory course. To get the most out of your practical course, if you can not find the time to commit to attending a full classroom course, you are strongly advised to take a correspondence course first.

Training CDs

If you feel that you do not want to take a full correspondence course, Teach-Me also offer training CDs to study on your own without the assistance of an instructor. These are ideal as a refresher after a break in sailing activity, or if you are planning on taking the Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence exams and need to brush up on the theory elements.

Candidates for the Cruising Instructor course are also frequently weak in some aspects of the theory, a prudent candidate will make sure they are well prepared to teach any of the navigation aspects prior to arriving for the course. One of these CDs will provide that preparation.

Teach Me Interactive also have a free download that teaches knots and ropework.

Many sailors also fly, Teach-Me Interactive offer training in the theory aspects of pilot education.

Additional Resources: