Yachtmaster Ocean
Celestial navigation and ocean planning
The RYA Yachtmaster Ocean course dives into astronavigation and ocean meteorology, introducing the principles and use of the sextant. It’s aimed at those with solid theory—Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper, and Yachtmaster Offshore level—who want to tackle bluewater passages and ocean crossings with confidence.
At a glance
- Experience: None required (but strong prior theory recommended)
- Duration: 5 days • Ratio: 5:1 • Age: 18+
- Format: Classroom-based
- Location: Rome
Course syllabus
What you’ll cover- Earth and the celestial sphere
- The PZX triangle
- The sextant: principles, adjustment, and use
- Time measurement
- Meridian altitudes
- Observations of the Sun, stars, and other bodies
- Compass checks and verification
- Satellite navigation systems
- Great Circle Sailing
- Ocean meteorology
- Passage planning
- Ocean navigation and passage making
- Long-range communications
What to bring
Pack light and practical- Passport or ID
- Reference books for the class
Pre-exam requirements
Needed for Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam- Hold Yachtmaster Offshore
- Complete an ocean passage as skipper or mate, involved in full planning
- Passage must be ≥ 600 NM non-stop with ≥ 96 continuous hours at sea
- A significant portion > 50 NM from land
- Oral exam plus assessment of at-sea celestial sights (not included in course price)