Sailing Preparation Week
Yachtmaster Coastal / Offshore
The Prep Week is an intensive training program preparing candidates for both the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and RYA Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams. This specialized course focuses on refining the skills necessary for advanced navigation, boat handling under sail and power, leadership at sea, and executing complex passage planning.
Participants will engage in practical training sessions guided by skilled instructors to develop their abilities and build confidence in handling vessels in coastal waters. By the end of the training period, attendees will be well-equipped to approach the relevant examination with proficiency and assurance. Join us to enhance your skills and work towards earning this recognized certification.
What You Will Discover
Boat Preparation
Learn to prepare a sailing yacht thoroughly for sea, including pre-departure checks, securing gear and reviewing safety equipment. You will also cover tactics for heavy weather and restricted visibility, building the sound judgement expected of a Yachtmaster-level skipper.
Boat Handling
Acquire hands-on experience in managing ropes, safety equipment, and sails, ensuring effective and secure operations on board.
Navigation
Learn the fundamentals of maritime navigation, including understanding charts, plotting courses, and utilizing GPS and other navigational tools to ensure safe and efficient travel.
Pilotage
Develop confident pilotage skills for entering and leaving harbours, anchorages and confined coastal waters under sail. You will study lee shore dangers and the limits of navigational accuracy, learning to apply appropriate safety margins when close to hazards.
Meteorology
Study weather patterns, forecasts, and how to interpret meteorological data to make informed decisions in dynamic environments.
Rules of the Road
Consolidate your knowledge of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, including steering and sailing rules, lights and shapes, and sound and light signals. Practical application is tested through real traffic situations encountered while sailing.
Maintenance and Repair Work
Learn essential routine maintenance tasks and basic repair techniques to ensure your equipment stays in optimal working condition.
Engines
Build sound working knowledge of your sailing yacht's auxiliary engine, covering safe starting and stopping procedures, routine pre-departure checks and basic fault recognition. This practical grounding supports safe motoring when sail alone is not appropriate.
Vicatualing
Learn how to prepare for a journey, including selecting and storing essential supplies, managing resources, and ensuring all necessary needs are met.
Emergency Situations
Learn the procedures for handling various emergency situations, such as fire, flooding, medical issues, and evacuation.
Yacht Handling Under Power
Develop the skills required to operate a vessel using its engine, including docking, anchoring, and navigating in confined areas.
Passage Making
Understand the planning and execution of extended journeys, including route planning, task management, and coordinating the team.
Night Cruising
Learn the essential techniques for safe navigation and handling during nighttime, including the proper use of lights, night vision equipment, and radar systems.
Helmsmanship
Refine your helmsmanship and sail trim to sail the yacht efficiently in a range of conditions, from light airs to heavy weather. You will develop the boat-handling feel and steady judgement expected of a competent, confident skipper.
General Duties
Gain an understanding of the daily tasks and responsibilities, including managing personnel, maintaining order and cleanliness, and ensuring the overall well-being of the environment and its inhabitants.
COURSE INFORMATION
Duration and Required Experience
The Prep week Skipper course includes five days of hands-on, practical training, both during the day and at night.
Experience Required:
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Completion of the Coastal Skipper & Yachtmaster Theory Course
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Your nautical miles logged for your Yachtmaster exam.
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50 days of sailing experience (with at least 2 days as the skipper +60nm)
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2 overnight spent onboard a sailing yacht + 60nm
Participants should also be in a physical condition that enables them to fully engage in all sailing exercises.
What to Bring
Even in Tenerife, unexpected weather changes can occur while sailing in open waters. It’s important to be prepared with a range of clothing options and adequate sun protection. Be sure to pack the recommended items listed on the following page.
What's included
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Accommodation on the yacht
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Drinks and lunch, served in one of our scenic locations, weather permitting
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Fuel costs and mooring fees
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Insurance coverage while onboard
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Fresh towels, bed linen, pillows, and duvets
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Training provided by certified and experienced instructors
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Please note: Travel insurance, offboard accommodation, and any additional expenses are the responsibility of the student.
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For any inquiries or special requests, don’t hesitate to contact us.
RYA Motor Yachtmaster Coastal / Offshore
The Yachtmaster is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates a skipper's experience and competence. This certification enables individuals to work as a skipper on commercial vessels up to 200GT.
RYA Yachtmaster
Coastal / Offshore Prep Week
The Prep Week is an in-depth training program designed to prepare experienced individuals for the challenges of obtaining their Yachtmaster.
RYA Yachtmaster Mileage Building
The mile building week offers a valuable opportunity for aspiring sailors to gain essential sea miles and practical experience required for obtaining advanced boating licenses and certifications.