RYA Dayskipper Practical - 5 Day Sailing Course

Previous Experience Required: Theory knowledge to RYA Day Skipper Theory level and practical sailing skills to RYA Competent Crew level (recommended 5 days at sea, 100 nautical miles, 4 night hours).

Ready to take command? The RYA Day Skipper Practical course is designed to elevate your sailing skills, empowering you to confidently skipper a cruising yacht. This internationally recognized qualification is your key to unlocking yacht charters around the globe. Plus, with it, you'll be eligible to apply for the International Certificate of Competence (ICC)—a must for overseas sailing adventures!

What will you learn?

This is where the real adventure begins. Under expert guidance, you'll step into the role of skipper, charting your own course on a short passage, navigating, and making real-time decisions. Your instructor will ensure every step is taken safely, but the thrill of being in control is all yours.

Throughout the week, you'll master essential yacht preparation techniques, handle all forms of deck work, and refine your navigation and pilotage skills. From plotting courses and taking 3-point fixes to estimating positions and performing engine checks, you'll cover it all. Want to drop anchor in a beautiful bay? You’ll learn how to calculate tidal heights and make sure it’s safe. And as skipper, the well-being of the yacht and crew will be your responsibility—a true test of leadership!

But that’s not all. A major focus of this course is boat handling under both power and sail. You’ll become adept at maneuvering in tight marina spaces, berthing alongside, and even mastering Mediterranean-style mooring. Anchoring and picking up mooring buoys will become second nature. And when the unexpected happens—like a man overboard or a towing situation—you’ll know exactly what to do, even if a helicopter rescue is required. The course also includes the unforgettable experience of sailing under the stars at night!

What does a typical 5-day course look like?

Your adventure starts at 9 AM when you arrive at the yacht and are greeted by your instructor. After a safety briefing and a tour of the boat, it's straight into action. You’ll be steering the yacht in the harbor before setting sail into Geographe Bay. Throughout the week, you'll explore stunning locations like Castle Rock, Meelup, Eagle Bay, and even sail north to Koombana Bay in Bunbury. Each day is a mix of hands-on sailing, anchoring in picturesque bays for lunch, and maybe even a refreshing swim. Evenings are spent in marinas, on moorings, or at anchor. And of course, one night, you'll sail under the stars, honing your night navigation skills!

What do you get?

Upon successful completion, you’ll receive an RYA logbook and the highly respected RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate, opening doors to worldwide yacht charters. With this certificate, you can also apply directly for your ICC, ensuring you're ready to skipper wherever your heart desires.

What do you need to bring?

The course includes accommodation onboard and all meals, so you just need to pack your personal gear. All accommodation is on a shared basis. Cabins will be allocated upon arrival and Students are not guaranteed to have a cabin. When necessary, a berth will be in the saloon. We’ll provide detailed joining instructions with everything you need to know.

Pre-course preparation?

You’ll need to have completed the RYA Day Skipper Theory course or have equivalent knowledge, as well as practical sailing skills to RYA Competent Crew level. If you're missing any theory, we recommend checking out our Aspiring Day Skipper package or the Complete Day Skipper package if you’re new to sailing.

With a maximum of 5 students per course, space is limited. Don't wait—book now and embark on an exciting journey to becoming a confident and capable yacht skipper!

Next step: - RYA Coastal / Yachtmaster Theory then RYA Coastal Skipper Practical

Contact us on 0412 060 130 or email sailing@oceanwest.net.au