RYA ONLINE SHOREBASED TRAINING

Explore All Of Our Courses

Name: RYA Day Skipper Theory
Brand: Ardent Training
SKU: day-skipper
Rating: 5 (981 reviews)

From your very first steps in coastal navigation to advanced offshore passage planning, our online courses are built to adapt around your lifestyle and learning styles. Get qualified, upskill and expand your horizons with premium online training.

Why Choose Ardent

Filmed on the Water

See exactly how your theory training applies to real skippering situations.

Real Instructor Support

Direct access to active RYA instructors whenever you need a hand.

More Than a Certificate

Gain deeper knowledge that builds genuine confidence out on the water.

Courses Comparison

Compare Our Courses Side by Side

Choosing your path on the water isn't guesswork. This table breaks down our full range of RYA online theory courses so you can choose the exact right fit for your experience level.

For further information on the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme you can also watch our quick video guide below. As always with Ardent, if you have any questions or would rather chat things through, just get in touch. We love helping people get set up on the right RYA journey, whether it involves an online course with us or not!

Skill Level	Highlights	Action
Designed for complete beginners and new crew members looking for a friendly introduction to boating. This course builds a safe foundation in navigation and safety equipment before you step on board. Duration: ~16 Hours Prerequisites: None	Foundation skills in navigation and chartwork Basic tidal awareness and understanding Essential safety equipment checks and procedures Introduction to weather and meteorology	View Course
Aimed at aspiring skippers who want to confidently take charge of a vessel in coastal waters during daylight. It bridges the gap between crew member and confident skipper. Duration: ~50 Hours Prerequisites: None	Position fixing and chartwork Tidal heights and calculating safe clearances Weather forecast analysis and meteorology Collision regulations and safety protocols	View Course
Structured for experienced seafarers preparing for advanced coastal, night-time, or long-distance passages. It demands a strong, active understanding of core navigational theory. Duration: ~50 Hours Prerequisites: Day Skipper knowledge required	Advanced chartwork navigation and passage planning Offshore weather patterns and frontal systems Nighttime pilotage and navigation techniques Navigating safely in restricted visibility	View Course
Tailored for experienced skippers without formal qualifications, or past Day Skippers who want a comprehensive refresher before stepping straight up to the Yachtmaster level. Duration: ~70 Hours Prerequisites: Extensive experience required	Reviews core foundations of Day Skipper theory Advances to the highest standard of Yachtmaster Offshore theory Comprehensive preparation for the final exam	View Course
A specialized, RYA Interactive program mandatory for seafarers who need to commercially endorse their RYA certificates. It ensures you understand the legal responsibilities of working commercially. Duration: 6-8 Hours Prerequisites: None	International maritime law and regulations Commercial vessel operational safety standards Health and safety duties of a skipper	View Course
A legal requirement for anyone operating a marine VHF radio on the water. This online course prepares you fully for the official exam, which must be taken separately in person. Duration: 10 Hours Prerequisites: None (Minimum age 16 for the exam)	Correct operation of VHF and DSC equipment Standard radio protocols and terminology Emergency and distress calling procedures Legal licensing rules for vessels and crew	View Course

Ardent Training are fantastic to work with. Their instructors are extremely passionate about teaching and their product is the best on the market by a long way. This means that the students arrive well prepared for their various practical courses.