RYA Competent Crew Practical Course

A hands-on course for anyone interested in becoming a useful crew member

Course Description

RYA Competent Crew is the ideal starting point for your RYA training. The course introduces beginners and those with limited experience to the delights of sailing aboard a cruising yacht. Making it ideal for anyone looking to become an active crew member. The course can be taken either over 5 consecutive days, or over two weekends. 

The RYA Competent Crew course is very much about learning by experience. During the course you’ll live aboard a yacht and will be taught about safety at sea as well as learning to master essential crewing skills. This will include steering, changing sails, reefing, and tying essential knots. It's very much a practical course and the perfect opportunity to discover the freedom of yacht sailing.

Assessment is over the duration of the course and observes how you have applied your new found skills during your time on board.

Course Overview

Course length: 5 days, often run over 2 weekends from Friday afternoon to Sunday evening. If you have done the Start Yachting course, this course can be completed in 3 or 4 days.

Course format: This course is based on the water.

Required prior experience: None

Minimum age: Recommended age 16

    • Knowledge of sea terms and parts of a boat

    • Rigging and sails

    • Sail handling

    • Ropework

    • Fire precautions and fighting

    • Personal safety equipment

    • Man overboard

    • Emergency equipment

    • Meteorology

    • Seasickness

    • Helmsmanship

    • General duties

    • Manners

  • Please see our course calendar for where and when we are running this course, view availability and secure your place through our booking system. Alternatively, you can call us on 1300 944 974 and make your booking by phone. If your chosen course is not running at the base or at the time you want, or for group bookings, please email us.

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Course Calendar