Coastal Skipper RYA — Qualification, Course & Requirements

If you’re aiming to skipper longer coastal passages and sail at night, the RYA Coastal Skipper qualification is your next big step. It’s one of the most respected RYA certificates, proving you can take charge of a yacht safely and confidently in coastal waters.

This guide explains what the Coastal Skipper RYA course involves, who it’s for, and how to qualify — with links to resources that will help you plan your training journey.

Yacht under sail along coastline during RYA Coastal Skipper training

What Is the RYA Coastal Skipper Qualification?

The RYA Coastal Skipper qualification sits between Day Skipper and Yachtmaster Coastal. It’s designed for experienced sailors ready to move beyond local day trips and gain the skills to skipper yachts on longer, more complex passages.

You’ll learn to plan and execute multi-leg routes, manage crew during night passages, and handle a yacht in tidal and challenging conditions.

⚓ Find out what the qualification lets you do in our guide: What you can do with a Coastal Skipper qualification

Who Is the Course For?

You’re ready for this course if you already have:

• 15 days of sea time (2 as skipper)

• 300 miles logged

• 8 night hours

• Navigation knowledge at Yachtmaster Theory level

It’s the ideal step for those who’ve completed Day Skipper and want to gain confidence on longer passages or prepare for Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore.

📖 Compare courses in our guide: Difference Between Day Skipper and Coastal Skipper

RYA Coastal Skipper instructor briefing crew on night sailing plan

What Does the Course Involve?

The Coastal Skipper Practical course runs over five consecutive days from Southampton’s Shamrock Quay. You’ll spend the week onboard, skippering real passages with your instructor’s guidance.

You’ll cover:

• Passage planning and execution

• Night navigation and pilotage

• Watchkeeping and leadership

• Yacht handling in various conditions

• Safety and emergency drills

The course challenges your decision-making and skippering judgment — ideal preparation for more advanced qualifications or coastal cruising independence.

⛵ See dates, prices, and full details: RYA Coastal Skipper Practical training

Students practising night navigation during RYA Coastal Skipper course

Where Does the Training Take Place?

Training takes place primarily in The Solent, one of the UK’s most diverse and challenging sailing environments, and surrounding waters. Depending on the weather and course progress, you may also sail to Weymouth, Poole, Brighton, or even cross the Channel to France or the Channel Islands.

Each passage adds real experience in tidal navigation, coastal pilotage, and night sailing.

What Certificate Will You Receive?

On successful completion, you’ll earn the RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Course Completion Certificate.

This qualification can be used to:

• Demonstrate competence to charter companies

• Apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) through the RYA

• Progress to Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore exams

🧭 Learn more about your next steps with our RYA Course Progression Plan

How to Prepare for the Course

To get the most from your training:

• Brush up on navigation and meteorology with Yachtmaster Theory

• Log miles in varied weather conditions

• Practise pilotage and boat handling under sail and power

Our experienced RYA instructors will tailor the course to your ability, ensuring you’re challenged but supported every step of the way.

🧩 Want a detailed overview? Read our FAQ: RYA Coastal Skipper Practical explained

Ready to Take the Helm?

If you’re serious about advancing your sailing, First Class Sailing offers expert-led RYA Coastal Skipper training from Shamrock Quay, Southampton — a world-class location with modern yachts and experienced instructors.

📅 See availability and book your place:
👉 RYA Coastal Skipper Practical training

📍 Not sure which course is right for you?
Take the RYA Sailing Level Finder quiz to find your perfect match.

Posted by: First Class Sailing