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Welcome to TheOceanAcademy

Superior RYA Yacht Crew Training in South Florida

The Ocean Academy is a fully accredited and recognized Training Center for the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).  We offer superior Theory and Practical Yacht Crew Training 

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore/Coastal (Power)

• We are the ONLY school in Fort Lauderdale to independently offer accredited Theory and Practical training for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and Coastal.  This course includes one week of theory training in chart-work, navigation rules, meteorology, tidal height calculations, aids to navigation, voyage planning and more.  Week two includes practical training on our 40' (12m) training vessel, followed by the RYA Practical Examination. The Duration for this course is 6 days, with a total of 40+ hours of direct contact.  Included in your tuition is the RYA Student Pack which includes course notes, Training Almanac and Training Charts.  Plotting tools are not included, but our Yachtmaster FAQ will help you understand the tools that are needed.  We keep our student/instructor ratio to 4:1 maximum for the best training experience.  Please contact Steve from the contact information below for a consult and information on booking your course.

RYA Power Boat Level 2

• The Ocean Academy is fully accredited to offer the RYA Power Boat Level 2 Course (PBL2).  We offer this course in a two-day theory and Practical course, or a three day evening class for those crew members who are working on-board during the day.  The course is offered on our modern and well equipped 23' (7m) center-console training vessel, with electronic chart plotter, DSC equipped VHF radio and all the latest safety equipment.  Included in the tuition is an online voucher for the Start Boating course notes booklet.  We keep our student/instructor ratio to 3:1 for the best training experience.  Please contact Steve from the contact details below for a consult and infomation on booking your course.

TheOceanAcademy is your best resource for RYA Training In Fort Lauderdale, including custom yacht crew training, PBL2 and RYA Yachtmaster Offshore(Power) instruction

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The Ocean Academy

750 West Sunrise Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311, United States

750 West Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301 USA

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WHY SHOULD I GAIN A ROYAL YACHTING ASSOCIATION (RYA) CERTIFICATION?

It’s simply the best!

“The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) sailing qualifications have been voted the premiere sailing accreditation for excellence and global reputation following a recent survey targeting 200 professional yacht and motorboat charter companies. The professional charter companies that were surveyed own and manage in excess of 6,000 charter boats across the Mediterranean, Caribbean and Asia...

2014 Seamaster Yachting

RYA Training Overview

RYA training is forward thinking and designed for whatever level of skill, professionalism and knowledge you want to achieve. The RYA have been around for over 130 years, but the approach is fresh and up to date with practical and online theory courses available worldwide. RYA courses never stop developing to take into account the dynamic world of boating.

Over 2,200 RYA recognized training centers in more than 44 countries.

22,000 RYA instructors across the world.

15,000 professionals working on commercial vessels using RYA Certificates of Competence.

155,000 people completing RYA courses every year.  

Over 300,000 expert RYA publications are added each year to the personal libraries of recreational and professional boaters.  

Over 100 professional and recreational courses on the water, in the classroom and online. 

To review the entire RYA program go to www.rya.uk.org .

RYA Courses Available through Yachting Education

Start Yachting & Private Tuition

This course provides a short introduction to sail cruising for novices. By the end of the course you will have experienced a yacht under motor and sail, how a yacht is propelled by the wind, sail handling techniques and the basics of crew work.

Pre-Requisites

Pre Course experience: None

Assumed knowledge: None

Minimum duration: 1 days. Often run over a weekend or midweek

Minimum age: None

Course content: Basic knowledge of sea terms and parts of a boat, her rigging and sails, sail handling and basic sail trim.

Ability after course: Understand how the yacht sails, the basic boat dynamics of wind and sails, how to participate in the sailing process and positively contribute to the day’s voyage.

Competent Crew

This is for novice sailors and those who would like to become active crew members rather than just passengers. By the end of the course you should be able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout, row a dinghy and assist in all the day to day routines.

Minimum duration: 5 days. 

Course content: Knowledge of sea terms and parts of a boat, her rigging and sails, sail handling, ropework, fire precautions and fighting, personal safety equipment, man overboard, emergency equipment, meteorology, seasickness, helmsmanship, general duties, manners.

Ability after course: Able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout and assist in all the day to day routines

Day Skipper

A course for aspiring skippers with some yachting experience and basic navigation and sailing skills. Learn to skipper a short passage with the instructor on hand to give advice and encouragement and ensure your safety. Experience being in charge, taking credit when it all goes well and being responsible when it doesn't.

(Note: Day Skipper graduates are automatically entitled to apply for the International Certificate of Competency)

Pre-course experience: 5 days, 100 miles, 4 night hours on board a sailing yacht

Assumed knowledge: Some sailing experience and basic navigation skills. It is recommended you complete the Day Skipper online course from www.NauticEd.org beforehand.

Minimum duration 5 days: 3 weekends or 3 days plus 2 days

Minimum age: 16

Course content Preparation for sea, deck work, navigation, pilotage, meteorology, rules of the road, maintenance and repair work, engines, victualling, emergency situations, yacht handling under power, yacht handling under sail, passage making, night cruising.

Coastal Skipper

A course for those with considerable knowledge of sailing and navigation wanting to undertake coastal passages by day and night. Each trainee will skipper more challenging passages under the guidance of the instructor.

Pre-course experience: Day Skipper Certificate.

Assumed knowledge: Advanced navigation including Coastal Skipper theory available at www.NauticEd.org   .

Minimum duration: 5 days

Minimum age: 17 years old .

Course content: Passage planning Preparation for sea Pilotage Passage making and ability as skipper Yacht handling under power Yacht handling under sail Adverse weather conditions Emergency situations.

Ability after course: Able to skipper a yacht on coastal passages by day and night

International Certificate of Competency

If you are chartering a vessel abroad, you will generally need evidence of your competence. The ICC is a certificate which is intended to provide evidence of competence when requested by officials in foreign countries. The certificate is available via completion of the RYA Day Skipper course OR a one day exam.

Pre Exam requirements: Basic boat handling skills under power and sail. Is physically and mentally fit to operate a pleasure craft, and in particular, has sufficient powers of vision and hearing. Presents evidence of nationality or residency to show that their nationality does not preclude them from being issued with an ICC by the RYA.

Assumed knowledge: Day Skipper theory or above, available at www.NauticEd.org

Minimum duration: 3 Hours

Exam content: Satisfactory demonstration of yacht handling skills under power and sail. Knowledge of international collision regulations, navigation and “rules of the road” Full exam details available http://www.rya.org.uk/SiteCollectionDocuments/cruising/Web%20Documents/Boating%20Abroad/ICC%20Form.pdf

Ability after exam: International license evidencing competence when requested by officials in foreign countries.

Telephone: 803-280-0881

Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Training in the United States

Welcome to the American Sailing Academy – Your Gateway to Sailing Excellence!

As the premier sailing school in the Florida Keys, we are proud to be the USA equivalent of the esteemed Royal Yachting Association (RYA) in the UK. At the American Sailing Academy, we offer a comprehensive range of sailing courses and certifications that mirror the high standards set by the RYA. However, there are a few key differences between RYA and the American Sailing Association (ASA) that make our offerings tailored to the unique needs of American sailors.

Here’s what sets ASA apart from RYA:

Tailored for American sailors: ASA certifications are designed specifically to meet the needs of sailors in the United States. Our courses take into account the unique sailing environments, regulations, and cultural aspects relevant to American waters.

Local expertise: Our experienced instructors possess an in-depth understanding of the intricacies of sailing in the Florida Keys and the United States. They provide valuable insights and techniques that are applicable to the American boating landscape.

Regulations and standards: ASA certifications align with the boating regulations and safety standards set by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) and other relevant authorities. This ensures that you receive training that is compliant with the local regulations.

Networking opportunities: By joining the ASA community, you gain access to a network of American sailors, sailing schools, and charter companies. This network can provide you with further opportunities to enhance your sailing skills and connect with fellow enthusiasts in the United States.

At the American Sailing Academy , we offer beginner and advanced sailing lessons, as well as refresher courses, all conducted in the breathtaking vacation setting of the Florida Keys. Imagine yourself harnessing the wind, navigating the crystal-clear waters, and experiencing the sheer joy of sailing in this idyllic paradise.

Ready to embark on your ASA certification journey? Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity! For more information and to enroll in our ASA certification courses, reach out to our experienced and friendly Captain G at 305-587-3205. He’ll be delighted to assist you and answer any questions you may have.

Begin your sailing adventure today with the American Sailing Academy. Get ready to chart a course for unforgettable memories and a lifelong love for the sea. Fair winds and following seas await you!

• Standard Courses
• Career Progression Courses
• Additional Training
• Pricing and Packages
• STCW 2010 Course
• Stewardess Course
• Testimonials

Royal Yacht Academy (RYA) Courses

Home Royal Yacht Academy (RYA) Courses

RYA Powerboat Level II (PB2)

This course is absolutely essential for all crew (Deckhands, Engineers, Steward/esses and Chefs). Superyacht guests are regularly ferried/tendered between the yachts and the shore. It is imperative that the crew hold this license for all tender driving duties required. We strive to keep the highest standard on this one.

• Price: R5000
• Duration:  2 days

Additional Information

This course covers all aspects of powerboat driving.

• Close quarters handling
• Planing manoeuvres
• Man overboard recovery
• Collision regulations
• Navigation and compass
• Buoyage, etc.

On successful completion, the students are issued the RYA Power Boat Level II Certificate/License card.

RYA Personal Watercraft Course (PWC/Jet Ski)

This Personal Watercraft Course licenses you to operate jet-skis globally. It also forms part of the steppingstone license towards your PW Instructor license. We are often tasked as deck crew, to entertain the yacht owners and their kids/guests on the PW’s/jet-skis. A vital license to hold for your duties on board, as well as employment.

• Price: R3500
• Duration:  1 day

RYA PW Instructor (PWI)

It is difficult to find a qualification more superyacht specific than the PW Instructors course. Here, crew will deliver a swift shortened course of basic instruction to guests on board, licensing them to legally operate jet-skis in the Mediterranean, USA, Bahamas, Carribean, etc.

• Price: R9950 ( Excluding £ 25 (under 25 years) or  £ 47 (over 25 years) payable to the RYA to become a member)
• Duration: 3 days

If guests are stopped nowadays and do not have the license they are fined. As a result the PW Instructor has become one of the most sought-after qualifications for crew and is a standout on a CV (as you will notice on job listings). It is important that crew have some form of prior experience on skis, please contact us to find out more.

RYA Tender Operator

This new qualification was launched in 2015 at the Monaco Boat Show. This was brought about through a collective effort from the RYA and PYA (Professional Yachting Association), as there have been growing calls from within the superyacht industry to step up the skills of entry-level crew with regards to tender driving and safety, especially during ​night hours.

• Price:  R6000
• Duration: 2 days

An extension to your Powerboat level II (PB2), adding an additional two days dedicated to the Tender Operator’s course will produce an excellent, skilled and confident powerboat handler who is confident in night op’s, navigation and advanced docking manoeuvres.

Note: You must already hold a ​RYA PB Level II ​certificate as well as ​VHF​ before you can complete this course.

Cape Town could not be a better training ground for this course with its city and Monaco-like setting and large city backscatter to get your navigation nice and strong. We also simulate

chartwork and familiarisation scenarios for Cannes-Antibes-Nice, Palma de Mallorca and Miami-Fort Lauderdale. A favourite between our senior/experienced instructors to teach and impart knowledge​.

RYA VHF Radio (SRC – Short Range Certificate)

A Radio Operators License is a key qualification for professional communication between ships and ports/marinas. This is a theory and practical course about understanding communication at sea.

• Price: R2000 ( Excluding £70 payable to RYA to write the exam)
• Duration: 1 day
• Maritime laws
• GMDSS (Global Maritime and Distress and Safety System)
• Functionality and capability of VHF radio.

A strong attribute when assisting on bridge watch, and necessary for qualification progress.  Please note an additional £60 fee paid directly to RYA.

Your duties as an assistant watchkeeper on the bridge mean you are there to assist the certified watchkeeper (OOW) to maintain a good lookout, identify targets (on radar) and transfer key information on vessel aspect (direction), size of vessel, speed, special conditions, course changes and ARPA.

• Price: R2100

We provide crew with a solid navigational base for target tracking, position fixing and other lookout duties. Our simulators give “real-time” pressure and action to situations programmed in by the instructor. Career progression starts on the bridge.

RYA Day Skipper Theory

Advance your navigational theory and step towards your Yacht Master understanding where you solidify your drive to become a valuable crew member on the bridge by taking on responsibility for the absolute safety of all the guests and crew.

• Price: R8000
• Duration: 5 days
• Tidal heights and stream effect
• Course to steer and Dead Reckoning
• Electronic and traditional Nav
• Chart work for passage planning
• Watch keeping roles
• Buoyage, lights etc.
• Meteorology

With the recent changes to the manning requirement on yachts, crew now have the opportunity to progress much faster on the qualification front. Getting this theory program done sooner will assist in applying navigation skills to make the step-up in qualification more fluid.

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RYA/MCA QUALIFICATIONS

Yacht Point Nautical School is a center authorized by the Royal Yachting Association to teach RYA qualifications in Barcelona, Spain.

The RYA ( Royal Yachting Association ) is a UK organization of international prestige that has the best RYA training standards in sailing and motor yachting.

All RYA courses will be taught in english.

RYA Certificates will be useful if you are interested in:

• Obtaining an internationally recognized qualification in order to improve your CV.
• Learning to sail or improving your technique with the best nautical teaching method.
• Working on British and Commonwealth flagged vessels.

The Royal Yachting Association’s training is based on practical teaching with a maximum of five students per course, making sure the instructor dedicates the necessary time to each student.

When in the professional area, international recognition also comes from the fact that in order to work under a RYA license you will need to pass a practical exam with a qualified examiner on board.

Anyone wanting to improve their nautical english and become a more qualified skipper… should think about joining the RYA!

Let us introduce you to our team .

Theoretical Courses

The Essential Navigation online course will provide you with the  nautical and basic  vocabulary and knowledge   in  English, navigation, safety, voyage planning and basic seamanship concepts for inexperienced skippers and all those who want to refresh their knowledge in the nautical language by excellence.

This course is especially recommended for those who want to take our Competent Crew course.

The Day Skipper Theory Course is an introduction to cruising for the inexperienced skipper. This course provides you with sufficient knowledge to navigate familiar waters during the day. Basic knowledge of the lights to introduce you to night watches is also included.

Modality : Classroom or Online

This course is indicated for those students who wish to initiate themselves in the nautical world and want to obtain the Yachtmaster.

It includes Day Skipper and Yachtmaster theory.

There are two Yachtmaster levels:

• Yachtmaster Coastal: you need a previous 800 miles and 30 days on board experience (Half of them on tidal waters).
•   Yachtmaster Offshore : you need a previous 2500 miles and 50 days on board experience (Half of them on tidal waters).

A theoretical course all about the sextant and astronomy that qualifies the skipper without any limitation. At the end of the course there is a written exam.

The second part of the Ocean Yachtmaster Course is the elaboration of some voyage that’s more than 500 miles and an oral exam to evaluate the same voyage .

Prerequisites : To be in possession of the Yachtmaster Offshore and to have completed a voyage of more than 600 miles in ocean.

The Marine Radio SRC VHF online course is the minimum qualification required by law to control the operation of VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling (DSC) equipment on any British flagged vessel voluntarily equipped with a radio.

This includes both fixed and portable equipment using international channels.

This course is also required to obtain your Yachtmaster Certificate .

The online PPR course is compulsory for all RYA holders with Commercial Endorsement.

Professional skippers with an RYA qualification can work on yachts and be legally paid for it. Applicants for a RYA Certificate of Competency must first pass the PPR course.

Practical Courses

The Powerboat Level 2  course is a two-day course that gives you the   necessary  skills and knowledge to run a powerboat, it’s the basic certificate in the International Certificate of Competence.

The course focuses on short distance low speed handling, man overboard manoeuvring and collision rules.

If you have never sailed a sailboat before, with the Start Yachting Course you will get an introduction to cruising sailing.

The goal of this course is to help you become more competent, efficient and safer on the water.

Introduction to sailing course, with international recognition.

Prerequisites : None, no experience is required. 

During the Competent Crew Course , you will be embarked for 5 days on a sailboat, learning the techniques of seamanship from the very start.

No previous theoretical course is necessary, but the online course Essential Navigation is recommended.

For aspiring skippers, with basic sailing experience.

It enables to sail in daytime trips in familiar waters.

The Day Skipper course is equivalent to the Recreational Boats Skipper qualification, but much more practical and in English.

Prerequisites : 5 days sailed, 100 miles and 4 night hours. Day Skipper Theory level.

Course for aspiring skippers with sailing experience that enables day and night coastal navigation.

The Coastal Skipper Course , needs a theory equivalent to the Yacht Skipper and 5 days of continuous evaluation on board.

Prerequisites : 15 days sailing, 2 days as skipper, 300 miles and 8 night hours.

The Yachtmaster Sail practical course consists of 5 days of practical training and 2 days of exams.

The Yachtmaster Sail certificate is obtained through a practical exam involving manoeuvres and various exercises that will serve to demonstrate your skill and confidence as a skipper.

The Yachtmaster Power practical course consists of 4 days of practical training and 2 days of exams.

The Yachtmaster Power certificate is obtained through a practical exam involving manoeuvres and various exercises that will serve to demonstrate your skill and confidence as a skipper.

What course suits me best to start with? Differences between PER and Day Skipper

Last few places for October 9th

Competent crew or day skipper.

Reach your horizons & beyond

Mallorca Sailing Academy provides an exciting and fun sailing education experience for all skill levels in the sunny Balearic Islands.

Come connect with the wind and the sea on our sailing-only RYA courses on the spectacular island of Mallorca.

Rent a boat

If you're not careful life could pass you by. With us, there's always a chance to create new memories.

Become the sailor

You always wanted to be.

Whether it’s simply taking friends and family out for a day on the sea, becoming the captain of a charter, or dreaming of crossing entire oceans, reach your sailing goals by taking fun RYA courses with Mallorca Sailing Academy.

EXPLORE OUR OFFERING OF RYA COURSES

This is your ticket to adventure! Get actively involved in the technical aspects of sailing and find out what it’s really like to be part of a crew on a modern yacht. Learn how to steer and handle the sails, but even more important, learn how to work as part of a team with other fun sailors and discover the best ways to help the skipper. It’s the perfect segue to one day becoming a skipper yourself!

Are you ready to take control of the yacht and command your own crew? If so, take the helm and take responsibility of the boat and crew, and navigate a passage under the careful guidance and safety of an experienced instructor during this 5-day, practical, hands-on RYA course. Day Skippers can sail on short passages during the day without supervision, putting you that much closer to your achieving your ultimate sailing goals.

Day Skippers who have a well-developed understanding of sea navigation can level up their skills and undertake coastal passages by night in challenging weather conditions after taking the RYA Coastal Skipper course. Learn intricate details about passage planning, boat handling, sailing safety and how to handle emergencies while diving in deeper into detailed navigation skills.

A Choice of Adventure Awaits You

Mile Building

Building miles is part of the sailing training experience. It’s also a requirement for the more advanced RYA courses. No worries—Mallorca Sailing Academy has many fun, exciting opportunities for sailors to build miles and gain valuable experience on the sea with a crew and with the assistance of an experienced skipper.

OUR MILE BUILDING JOURNEYS

Set sail for an unforgettable adventure in the Balearic Islands. Join our crew of like-minded sailors for a week of skill-building, camaraderie, and exploration.

Learn what sailing in the Mediterranean is all about with the ultimate Balearic crossing from the capital to the world-famous island of Ibiza.

Follow the rugged northern coastline of Mallorca as you sail from the capital to Mallorca’s smaller sister island, Menorca.

The open ocean awaits you. Depart from one Spanish archipelago and finish in another, far beyond Mediterranean waters.

OUR CHARTERS

REEF 6a TA-3-8-21 - Sail yacht

FREEDOM - 6º MH-1-14-19 - Sail yacht

BOHEMIAN RAPSODY - 6º MH-1-15-19 - Sail yacht

OCEAN - 6º MH-1-21-19 - Sail yacht

UNDER PRESSURE - 6º MH-1-17-19 - Sail yacht

IBIZA - 6º MH-1-22-19 - Sail yacht

OASIS - 6º MH-1-16-19 - Sail yacht

Start Your Next Adventure Now

Explore our journal.

Going on a yacht charter adventure is an exhilarating way to explore the beauty of the ocean, discover secluded coves, and embrace the freedom of the seas. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a novice to the sea, careful planning is necessary to guarantee a pleasant and successful voyage when planning your yacht charter. This blog is designed to guide beginners through the essentials of chartering a yacht, covering everything from sailing experience to selecting the perfect destination.

Celestial navigation is a fascinating and ancient art, deeply intertwined with human history and exploration. From early voyagers like the Polynesians, who embarked on vast oceanic journeys guided only by the stars, to modern sailors circumnavigating the globe, celestial navigation has been an essential skill for seafarers. This blog aims to demystify this age-old technique, providing beginners with an accessible guide to navigating the ocean using the sky as their map.

Solo sailing is an empowering journey that combines the beauty of solitude with the intricacies of navigating the open sea. For beginners, preparation is key when taking on this adventure. This blog covers the essentials from rigging to safety, ensuring that your solo voyage is thrilling and most importantly safe.

Sailing has been an integral part of Mallorca's history and culture, shaping the island's identity and way of life. Mallorca's bond with the water is deep-rooted and ancient, making it a gem of the Mediterranean. Sailing was a necessary skill and a way of life for those who lived there before the invention of modern transportation since the sea served as the only route to connect to the outside world. This blog dives into the rich and varied history of sailing in Mallorca, exploring its evolution from the early days of Phoenician traders to the modern era of sleek yachts and regattas. We will reflect on the influences of various civilizations and the impact of technological advancements on sailing techniques and culture. Through this we'll see how Mallorca has remained connected to the maritime world, celebrating its past while navigating the currents of change.

Sailing is a thrilling experience that requires skill, patience, and a deep understanding of the wind. For beginners, the challenge does not only lie in handling the sailboat but also in predicting and utilizing the wind effectively. This is where wind finder apps come into play and become incredibly useful. These apps are essential tools that help sailors of all skill levels organize and carry out their sailing trips safely and enjoyably.

Navigating the coastlines demands a blend of skill, knowledge, and an intimate understanding of the marine environment. This blog delves into the intricacies of coastal navigation, guiding novices and seasoned sailors through advanced techniques that are essential for safe and efficient sailing.

Mallorca, nestled like a precious jewel in the heart of the Mediterranean, beckons sailors with its timeless allure. This blog aims to unveil the captivating charm of Mallorca, casting it against the backdrop of renowned sailing destinations across the globe. When planning your next nautical adventure, it's important to know what makes Mallorca unique, regardless of your level of experience. We'll explore Mallorca's natural advantages, its accessibility to other alluring locations, the vibrant urban culture that adorns its coastline, and the reasons it is regarded as a premier sailing destination.

Embarking on a sailing adventure blends the thrill of the open seas with the art of navigation. In today's digital age, harnessing the power of modern online forecasts has become indispensable for sailors, especially beginners. This blog dives into the world of online forecasting tools, offering insights into their crucial role in planning safe and enjoyable sailing journeys. From understanding wind patterns to anticipating weather changes, we'll explore how these tools empower sailors to make informed decisions, ensuring a harmonious dance with the ever-changing moods of the sea. Let's set sail on a journey of discovery and mastery of the winds.

Sailing is an exciting combination of science and art that takes us on a voyage of exploration where the wind and water become partners in a dance with the elements. At the core of this captivating activity is the sail, a remarkable feat of design that elegantly captures the wind's energy, transforming it into forward momentum. This blog serves as a beginner's guide to the fascinating world of sailing, offering a window into the intricate mechanics of how sails harness wind power. Whether you're a novice sailor, eager to learn the ropes, or simply curious about the principles that make a sailboat glide across the water, you'll find some valuable insights here. As we dive deeper into the art of sailing, we uncover not just the technical aspects but also the sheer joy and freedom that come from skillfully navigating the winds and waves. So, let's start this journey and explore the magic and mechanics of sailing.

Starting a sailing adventure requires progressing through a series of Royal Yachting Association (RYA) courses, regardless of whether one is a hobbyist or an aspiring professional. Each course, from the foundational Competent Crew to the advanced Yachtmaster Ocean, offers unique learning experiences, skill development, and prerequisites. This RYA Course FAQ offers you an overview of the essential questions related to each stage of your nautical education. You'll discover the prerequisites, learning outcomes, daily routines, and qualifications for courses like Competent Crew, Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper, Yachtmaster, and Yachtmaster Ocean. Whether you're taking your first step into sailing or aiming for high-seas mastery, these FAQs will give you some guidance.

As the crisp air signals the approach of winter, it's the perfect time for sailing enthusiasts, especially beginners, to start gearing up for the following sailing season. While the seas may be quieter during the colder months, the off-season is a busy period of preparation and planning for the months to come. This blog aims to guide you through essential steps and considerations to ensure you're ready to set sail when the season arrives. From refitting training vessels to enrolling in courses, we'll cover everything you need to know so that you can make the most of this period.

Sailing in the Mediterranean during the winter is a unique adventure. This season offers beginners a mix of challenges and serenity, unlike any other time of the year. This blog focuses on the essentials of navigating the colder months, ensuring a safe and enriching experience on the chillier and quieter seas. Winter sailing offers a chance for skill development, peaceful exploration, and fostering connections with local sailing communities, beyond simply braving the elements. This guide is your companion in transforming challenges into rewarding experiences in the beautiful Mediterranean waters.

Sailing is an adventurous sport and a lifetime learning experience, frequently depicted as a harmonious dance between humankind and nature. For those looking to embark on this journey, the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) offers a wide range of courses to get you started and to advance your skills. But where does one begin? This guide aims to demystify RYA courses for beginners. Let’s set sail!

When diving into the vast seas of the sailing world beginners need to be introduced to a pivotal rite of passage: mile building. This journey transcends the act of sailing, becoming a transformative venture that blends adventure with education. Mile building is not just about propelling a vessel from point A to B; it's an immersive learning experience, a chance to distill the vastness of the sea into a trove of navigational wisdom, practical skills, and self-discovery. For every aspiring sailor, this is a unique opportunity to not just traverse nautical miles, but to build confidence, competence, and camaraderie on the waves that are calling your name!

Starting a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) course is a voyage through the complex art and science of sailing, not just an adventure across the undulating waves. Enrolling in an RYA course demands a specific set of skills and equipment, regardless of your level of experience on the water. With the essence of preparation in mind, this guide explores the pivotal equipment and knowledge essential for beginners, ensuring smooth sailing throughout the learning journey.

As part of our RYA courses Mile mile-building opportunities, we venture into the rich waters of meteorological insights, and this blog focuses on the unpredictable winds of the Balearic region. Sailing in the Mediterranean offers numerous experiences, but it's crucial to be fully prepared for the region's particular weather patterns, especially the notorious Balearic winds.

Sailing, the age-old art of traveling by sea, has seen numerous technological leaps, but the fundamentals remain crucial. At the heart of these basics is navigation, an area both vast and essential. We are talking about Navigation Basics and diving deep into the essentials every sailor, especially beginners, must know.

“The tides are in our veins.” – Robinson Jeffers Those who wander onto the sea's vast expanse have long been fascinated by its rhythm. Our experiences on the sea are significantly shaped by the ebb and flow of the tides, which are impacted by the cosmic dance of the Earth and the Moon. These tidal nuances intermingle with seasonal changes all across the coastal Northern Hemisphere. While the serene blue waters invite many, understanding the undercurrents of the seasons and their impact on sailing becomes paramount. Dive in as we embark on a journey exploring how seasons affect the sea and sailing around this beautiful island.

The sailing community recognizes that it is time to change their tactics as the warm, golden tones of the Mediterranean summers start to fade. The lazy days of summer have left their mark, and the embrace of autumn heralds a noticeable change in the sea atmosphere. This period signals not just a change in seasons, but also a need for sailors to adjust and prepare. As the balmy breezes take on a cooler edge and the horizon paints itself in deeper blues, it becomes crucial for boat owners to ensure their vessels are ready for what lies ahead. The following months might either be a continuation of adventures or a pause to rejuvenate for the next surge.

The seas around Mallorca, which are a part of the Mediterranean's biodiverse-rich ecosystem, are home to a wide range of marine animals and exhibit a variety of ecological patterns that are both fascinating and essential to the health of our planet's oceans. From the rarely seen fin whales to the lively pods of dolphins, and from the elusive Silly turtles to the migratory journeys of tunas, Mallorca's waters offer a front-row seat to some of the most captivating underwater shows. An emphasis on conservation and responsible marine interaction is essential as we explore these lively seas, ensuring that these waters continue to be a sanctuary for all creatures who inhabit them. This blog takes a deep dive into the awe-inspiring marine life and the indispensable conservation efforts needed to protect Mallorca’s aquatic world.

Mallorca, a Mediterranean gem, is a sought-after sailing destination that continues to captivate enthusiasts year-round. As summer's grip loosens and autumn starts to roll in, a unique sailing experience beckons. But with the charm of the season comes its own set of challenges. Temperatures that change between warm sunlit days and cool evenings, coupled with unpredictable winds, make dressing accordingly a crucial part of any sailor's voyage. This guide dives into the nuances of Mallorca's autumn climate and offers practical insights on how to dress and gear up, ensuring both comfort and safety.

Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands in Spain, is renowned for its stunning coastline, azure waters, and favorable sailing conditions. While it's a popular summer destination, there's something truly special about learning to sail in Mallorca during autumn. With pleasant weather, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, affordable accommodation, and less crowded sailing conditions, this Mediterranean gem offers an idyllic setting for aspiring sailors. In this blog post, we'll delve into the many reasons why Mallorca is the perfect place to embark on a sailing adventure in the autumn season.

Discover the contrasting characteristics of sloops and ketches in terms of sail balance, ease of handling, and upwind performance. Learn about the advantages of sloops for efficient upwind sailing and the benefits of ketches in terms of balance, stability, and versatile sail combinations. Find out which sailboat configuration best suits your sailing style and goals.

Discover the ideal number of crew for a yacht based on its size, sailing experience, and type of sailing with our general guidelines. Our experts provide recommendations for crew sizes for small, mid-sized, and large yachts, as well as racing yachts.

Ensure the longevity and reliable performance of your small yacht diesel engine with these daily maintenance tips. Learn how to check oil levels, inspect fuel systems, monitor coolant levels, inspect belts and hoses, and prevent carbon buildup for optimal engine health. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and seek professional help for complex repairs.

Tacking and gybing are sailing maneuvers used to change direction. Tacking involves turning the bow of the boat through the wind, while jibing involves turning the stern through the wind.

Anchoring a yacht safely is an important skill for any sailor. Whether you are stopping for the night or taking a break during a long sail, anchoring allows you to secure your boat and rest easy. However, anchoring can also be dangerous if not done correctly. Here are some steps to follow to anchor a yacht safely:

Points of sail refer to the different directions a yacht can sail relative to the wind. Understanding the different points of sail is essential for sailing safely and efficiently. There are several points of sail, including close-hauled, close reach, beam reach, broad reach, and downwind.

There is no denying that sailing is the adventure of a lifetime. That’s why we have designed our Competent Crew course to teach you the wonders of life on a modern yacht. Our RYA-accredited Competent Crew course is the perfect springboard for those looking to get into yachting, providing a fun and safe environment for knowledgeable beginners and enthusiasts alike. The all-intensive five-day course is designed to help you on your journey to becoming a competent sailor and valuable crew member – whether you plan to take your family and friends on holiday or take the first step on your dream to travel the world. Budding crewmen will step onto our modern yacht to get a true taste of what sailing has to offer. Some prior experience is definitely desirable though not required – only the enthusiasm to learn. Those who have sailed or completed their RYA Level 1 and 2 courses will find the course more enjoyable.

The best way to learn to sail is to take an RYA course with highly-skilled instructors in a gorgeous place like Mallorca—where the weather is perfect and the sailing conditions are ideal for beginners. However, you can supplement that practical hands-on training with a few sailing books targeted toward beginners that will provide additional insight and information that you can use as you continue your sailing adventures or when you want to keep learning, but maybe the weather is not ideal for sailing.

Want to get on the fast track to feeling like an active sailor? When you begin learning the most crucial knots used onboard a yacht, even beginners will begin to feel like they are a valuable part of the crew! Learning how to tie proper knots is a crucial skill for all beginning sailors. Knots are used on a yacht for very specific purposes and learning to tie them correctly is only part of the skill. You must also understand how and when they are used. Select the correct knot for the job, then practice tying it efficiently and effectively until you have the confidence to get the job done even during unfavorable conditions at sea.

Every sail is not created equally. Some smaller yachts have only one sail, which makes sail selection a breeze. However, larger sailboats have several sails with dozens of different sail configurations. When learning to sail, it’s important to understand the different types of sails and how they are used. For example, if you want to go downwind faster, use a spinnaker. If you are headed upwind, you may want a code zero. In other words, different conditions require different types of sails with different characteristics.

Rigging and sails are closely related, and all are part of a yacht’s overall sail plan. There are dozens of types of sails and literally hundreds of various configurations. A sail rig is the way that the sails are attached to the mast. It is the setup or configuration of the sailboat and consists of the sail and mast hardware. It can get confusing. For example, the shape of sails depends on the rigging, so they overlap a bit. In this article, we will explore the most commonly-used modern sail rigs.

Take the helm, command your own crew, and safely take control of a beautiful modern yacht with the Royal Yacht Association’s most popular course, the RYA Day Skipper Certification. Make the important transition from crew to skipper as you develop practical skills and build your sailing confidence with a fun, informative, 5-day, hands-on course under the safe supervision of qualified instructors.

An introduction to sailing doesn’t have to involve boring instruction in a classroom setting. In fact, the RYA Start Yachting beginner course provides the ultimate hands-on experience for first-time sailors who need basic introductory skills but also crave an exciting adventure. It’s the perfect course to try if you are interested in discovering whether sailing is something you want to explore further.

There are many requirements for the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certification exam, but the one that offers the biggest challenge for many sailors is compiling the necessary 2,500 miles with at least 50 days at sea. This is especially difficult if you do not own your own boat. While building these crucial miles requires effort, there are many creative ways to accomplish the high mileage mark while also adding tremendous sailing skills to your repertoire. First, you must understand the mileage requirements. Then, you can begin to find creative and safe ways to build the necessary miles.

Learn to sail on the spectacular island of Mallorca to experience ideal sailing weather, stunning scenery, and a rich and vibrant culture — setting the perfect landscape for expert RYA sailing training. Mallorca Sailing Academy offers something for everyone — from beginners getting their first taste of the basics of sailing, to day skippers who want to enhance their RYA skills on the exquisite Mediterranean coastline.

Spain has some of the highest rate sunlight hours in Europe, with the towns and cities lying on the Mediterranean benefiting from the sunshine without suffering from the infamously excessive heat of the Iberian peninsula. All year round, the Mallorcan climate is relatively mild and is therefore suitable for all sorts of outdoor recreational activities like hiking, climbing, ball sports, and, certainly, sailing.

Mallorca is the biggest of Spain’s Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, accompanied by Ibiza, Menorca, and Formentera. The culturally-rich paradise is a skipper’s dream, offering perfect sailing conditions for most of the year and an abundance of shoreline to trace and explore.

DISCOVER RYA HANDBOOKS AVAILABLE ON AMAZON

RBYC Sailing Academy

We are passionate about introducing people to sailing at all levels.  For first-time sailors we offer a learning pathway to take students from the beginner level to competent sailors. If interested, students can also join our advanced training groups to involve themselves in competitive sailing.

The RBYC Sailing Academy is Bermuda’s oldest RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Training Centre. The RYA is recognized worldwide and their certifications are highly respected. The curriculum is supported by the appropriate RYA shore-based theory courses. Please note, RBYC members receive a preferred rate.

Event Calendar

Courses & information, sailing academy calendar, junior & youth sailing, adult sailing, rya powerboat course, sailing academy team, nathan bailey, rbyc sailing academy director.

Nathan hails from Wales. He is a RYA Senior Instructor with endorsements for Racing Coach, Keelboat and Multi-hull teaching. He holds his RYA Powerboat Instructor qualifications. He is the Principal of the RYA Training Centre. In his off time you can find him tinker with his Moth alongside our Senior Instructor, Josh.

Josh Greenslade

Senior instructor.

Josh a home grown Bermudian with a passion for teaching sailing. He overseas the racing programme for the Optimist and Laser groups. He has a keen interest in team racing and you can find him tinkering with his Moth in his downtime. Josh grew up sailing at the RBYC and is also the current skipper of the Club's Fitted Dinghy, Contest. Josh is qualified as a RYA Senior Instructor with Racing Coach, Keelboat and Multi-hull endorsements. He is also a RYA Powerboat Instructor.

Nicole Butterworth

Sailing office.

Nicole grew up sailing at the RBYC as a child and has returned to her roots. She joined the team in 2011 and has a true passion for sailing. She is the RBYC Sailing Academy's Safety Officer and is a RYA First Aid Instructor. She helps adminster the teaching programme at the Club with the sailing instructors & manages and organizes the Club's Domestic Sailing programme and helps organize & run international events such as Bermuda Gold Cup and Newport Bermuda Race. She is a Bermuda National Race Officer.

Welcome to the RCYC Sailing Academy

The RCYC Sailing Academy was formally established in 2012 at the Royal Cape Yacht Club, Cape Town Elliot basin, Table Bay, Duncan Road. The Academy was initially created as the Royal Cape Yacht Club’s CSI program, which was aimed at addressing the lack of access to our sport, for marginalized communities.

The Academy was formed with the aim to create opportunities for previously disadvantaged youth and address the imbalance of representation of people of colour within the Club.  We often work with The homestead foundation for street children and the Emagqabini education foundation , tutoring kids in Khayelitsha. The Academy found a pool for new students, who represented the most under-resourced communities in our society and aim to empower the kids through sailing and hopefully someday they will become a strong constituency of our sport and redress our diversity challenge.

In 2018 we registered as an NPO with our primary focus being skills development through sailing. The Academy has a standing committee which reports to the Executives of the Club.  In 2019 the Academy registered as a PBO and was approved in 2020 with qualifying criteria being skills development and welfare.

RCYC Sailing Academy runs its sailing programs mostly on weekends and we participate in big regattas and other races. The Academy has a variety of boats including 6 L26 boats  and 1 Lavranos 36  and undertakes sailing training during weekends and regattas. The L26 design is believed to be conducive for beginners, as the nature of it forces individual to be hands on all the times and enforces team work in many occasions. The Academy has more than 6 skippers, one Offshore Skipper and one senior instructor, who are fully qualified and experienced.

Our training program takes place between 10h00 to 15h00 weekend days, unless otherwise indicated. The program has been very instrumental in developing and nurturing raw sailing talent and the development of new skills, team work and sportsmanship amongst our students.

Previous success stories include Yonela Mkaza who was invited to Spain in 2018 to experience keelboat sailing. Two students, Yonela Tenela and Daniel Agulhas have coached sailing programmes in the American Summer Camps, in 2019.  Lebogang January took part in a Youth Regatta in New Zealand in 2020. One of our instructors, Athi Vena, is now  instructing at Milnerton Aquatic Club. Academy instructor Sibu Sizato has his Offshore Skippers ticket and has represented South Africa at World Championships.

The Academy crew has competed in the 2023 Cape2Rio race on board of “Alexforbes Archangel” a Lavranos 36. The Alexforbes ArchAngel crew comprised of skipper Sibusiso Sizatu (30), first mate Daniel Agulhas (29), Renaldo Tshepo Mohale (29), Azile Arosi (22) and Justin Peters (21).  The Academy are very proud of their 3 rd place result, winning the Punte Del Este trophy and the Telescope Trophy for Offshore Youth.

Latest News

Download the 2023 Annual Report below. RCYC ACADEMY 2023 REPORT

The RCYC Sailing Academy has been in existence in the club in some form or…

Check out this clip in case you missed it. Lindani Spes Mchunu, RCYC Academy Manager, changing…

We are are proud to announce that we have receive Gold Level Certification Clean Regattas…

Weekend Report Back ArchAngel In the month of May, mothers are recognised for their nurturing…

Tonnerre, a helicopter carrier, is in the service of the French Navy. It is capable…

  Viking Open Day 9 March - RCYC Sailing Academy visited viking to learn more…

RCYC Sailing Academy students will be visiting Fleur de Passion on the 20th, December 2018.…

This past weekend RCYC Sailing Academy students visited Robben Island, courtesy of the Water Front…

Academy Sailing 2023-2024

The Royal Southern Yacht Club is excited to announce a new programme for Academy Sailing for under 30 year olds.

Academy Trophy – 28-29 October 2023

The Academy Trophy is our traditional end of season league racing regatta run in supplied J/70s. This ‘rock up and race’ style of event means that you don’t need your own boat – just build a team, enter, and race. There will be a maximum of 12 teams, racing in 6 boats. The racing is short and sharp, with teams changing over between races. There will be Umpires on the course so all penalty decisions will be made in real time.

For more information, and to enter, click here .

Boysterous Cup – 9-10 March 2024

The Boysterous Cup is another of our popular league racing events run in the same style as the Academy Trophy. Entry to follow in due course.

Winter J/70 Training

The Club’s fleet of J/70s are available to charter over the winter for training purposes. Many University teams already train regularly at the Club, and other teams are encouraged to do the same. We are planning to arrange some bespoke training over the winter months – more details to follow.

Our J/70s are also available for charter at other times, at a reduced rate for Academy members.

British Keelboat League 2024

The Royal Southern is proud to support the British Keelboat League. This league racing (run in the same style as our inhouse events mentioned above) takes place in various boats at different locations around the UK. The Southern hosts the Finals for qualifying teams at the end of September.

For 2024, the Royal Southern are looking to field a team at one qualifier – plus the Finals to which we receive a wild card entry. The team to represent the Royal Southern will be selected from the top scoring Royal Southern team at the Academy Trophy 2023 and the Boysterous Cup 2024. Selection policy to follow.

J/70 Grand Slam Series 2024

The Royal Southern are excited to announce that we have secured sponsorship to fund two teams to compete in the entire J/70 Grand Slam Series in 2024. Royal Southern mixed gender teams that perform well in the Academy Trophy 2023 will be invited to a selection weekend over the winter months. Full selection policy to follow.

If you are interested in any of these opportunities, but you are not yet a member of the Royal Southern YC, you can apply today online here .

We have very competitive prices for young members – and you can choose to pay annually or monthly. 

Stay up to date

To keep up to date with the latest Academy News, please join our dedicated WhatsApp group here .

Rakhadin Yarmetov

Rakhadin Yarmetov (1996, Russia) was educated at Music College named after A.Scriabin, Elektrostal, Moscow Region (2011-2015), Gnesins Academy of Music, Moscow (2015-2017, Bachelor’s degree with teacher Vladimir Tropp) and Royal Conservatoire, The Hague (2017-2018, Bachelor degree with Naum Grubert).

After studying at the Royal Conservatory for a year, Rakhadin transferred to the Conservatory of Amsterdam, where he currently studies with Naum Grubert. Rakhadin won the 2nd prize at the International Competition ‘Great Masters’, named after V. Merzhanov, in Bulgaria (2014) both as a soloist and piano duo. He also won 2nd prize at the all-Russian piano duo competition ‘Together at the piano’ in Vologda, Russia (2015).

Furthermore, Rakhadin won dozens of prizes at (regional and local) competitions in Russia (2013-2015) and helped organize and support the Improvisation Project ‘ZHOK’, together with students from KonCon, The Hague (2018-2020). He was involved in the realization of the ‘Quarter-tone pianos’ concert with Carlos Castro van der Elst in KonCon, The Hague (2019) and the premiere of ‘DEUS’ by Cornelis de Bondt in the Orgelpark, Amsterdam (2019).

REPERTOIRE and TIME SCHEDULE

Quarter Finals > Friday 11 February | 10:15 – 10:55 hrs | Bimhuis J. Haydn Divertimento in A-flat major, Hob.XVI:46 A. Scriabin Sonata no. 7, op. 64 ‘White Mass’

Semi Final >  Wednesday 16 February | 12:20 – 13:20 hrs | Bimhuis J. Brahms Clarinet Trio in A minor, op. 114 B. Bartok Suite for Piano, op. 14 F. Chopin Polonaise-fantaisie, op. 61

Final R. Namavar Ti’afa’a L. van Beethoven Piano Concerto no. 3 in C minor, op. 37

A small, light boat that you generally rig ashore and launch every time you go sailing. Can be sailed by one or more people. You might get wet!

A voluntary, non-competitive programme of activities for testing tool tip final round Testing tool tip testing anyone aged 14-24.

Narrowboats or cruisers. Enjoy cruising on canals, lakes and rivers.

Generally larger than dinghies with a weighted keel for stability. May include accommodation for short stays on board but not as comfortable as a yacht for longer trips.

Generally inboard powered boats with accommodation for coastal or offshore cruising.

Twin or three-hulled dinghies which are fast and fun!

Classroom or distant learning courses in navigation and seamanship for all abilities.

Commonly known as jet skis, these are versatile, fun and exhilarating.

Small, generally outboard powered craft such as RIBs and sportsboats. Predominantly used for day trips inland or on the coast

Yachts are powered predominantly by their sails - they will have accommodation and cooking facilities and will be suitable for coastal or offshore cruising

Expand your knowledge in specialist areas: Sea Survival, Diesel Engine, First aid, Marine Radio, Offshore Safety, Radar and Professional Practices and Responsibilities

Windsurfing combines elements of surfing and sailing, using a board around 2 to 3 metres long, powered by wind on the sail.

RYA Wingsurfing scheme provides a great introduction to the sport, progression and introduction on to foiling, undoubtedly opening doors to more time on the water.