RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Theory Course | on-Line

The RYA Day Skipper Theory course provides the essential theoretical foundation for sailors who want to develop their knowledge of navigation and progress towards becoming a competent coastal skipper.

While practical sailing experience is an important part of becoming a skipper, understanding what is happening around you is equally important. The theory course gives you the knowledge needed to plan a passage, navigate safely and make informed decisions before and during a voyage.

The course covers a broad range of subjects, including chartwork, position fixing, navigation, tides and tidal streams, weather, buoyage, collision regulations, pilotage, safety and passage planning.

You’ll learn how to interpret nautical charts, plot courses, calculate tidal information and determine your position. You’ll also develop an understanding of weather patterns and how weather conditions can influence a passage.

Passage planning brings all of these elements together. You’ll learn to consider the route, hazards, tides, weather, navigational marks, safe havens and the capabilities of the yacht and crew before setting out.

The Day Skipper Theory course is particularly valuable when combined with practical sailing experience. It provides the knowledge behind the practical skills you develop on the yacht and helps you understand why a skipper makes particular decisions.

For sailors preparing to undertake the RYA Day Skipper practical course, the theory qualification provides an important foundation.

It is also valuable for anyone who simply wants to become a more knowledgeable and independent sailor.

On completion of the online course there is a General Assessment and a Chartwork Assessment that are completed online.

Course duration: 40 hours
Assumed knowledge: RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship Course
Qualification: RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course Certificate
Course Delivery: Self-paced e-learning, unlimited course access, support for 12 months from enrolment with an option to extend the support with no charge for up to 6 months,
Device requirements: This course has been developed to work on a tablet, laptop or desktop computer. The best browser to use is Google Chrome, but all other browsers will work.
Supporting materials: Sent via express post for students in Australia and International registered airmail for overseas delivery. Pack contains the RYA Day Skipper shorebased course notes, 2 training charts, a training almanac and navigation tools (plotter, dividers, pencil, eraser).

DURATION

Approx 40hrs Study

INVESTMENT

From $

595.00

CONTACT

PHONE:

+61 402 429 152

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Our Story

Meet Terence & Ron – The Faces Behind Mainstay Sailing

At the heart of Mainstay Sailing are two passionate seafarers – Terence Smith and Ron van Schaik – who bring a wealth of experience, a love for adventure, and a deep respect for the ocean to every charter.

Terence is a seasoned skipper with decades of experience on the water. Known for his calm presence, practical knowledge, and deep connection to the Whitsundays, he’s happiest with the wind in his sails and guests onboard discovering the magic of life at sea. With a background in training and marine education, Terence has a knack for making everyone feel capable and confident – whether it’s your first time on a boat or your fiftieth.

Ron brings a unique blend of creativity and precision. A graphic artist by trade and an adventurer at heart. Ron’s attention to detail, and warm sense of humour make him a natural host on board, always ready with local insights or a good laugh.

Together, Terence and Ron have created Mainstay Sailing to share their passion for sailing, the sea, and the unforgettable beauty of the Whitsundays. Whether you’re joining for a day trip or an extended charter, their goal is simple: to give you an experience that feels personal, authentic, and just the right amount of adventurous.

Step aboard, and let’s set sail.

All Courses

RYA Training (internationally recognised)

Whether you have never been on a yacht, or you just want to learn a bit more, we offer professionally run courses which will give you internationally recognised qualifications.

If you are planning to charter locally or internationally, we can offer courses which will give you the knowledge and ability to make it safe and enjoyable, as well as the certificate to present to the charter company.

Our practical courses are run on “Mohawk” a Bennetau 40.7, which is ideal for training in a safe and comfortable environment. Our training ground is the Whitsunday region in Queensland. All courses are run from our base at Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach.

Your instructors are RYA qualified and will ensure your learning experience is fun, and exciting. We adapt the courses to suit all learning styles and personal preferences. The accommodation and food will set the ideal learning environment to ensure that you have a fantastic week with us.

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