Category: RYA Blog

English plays a fundamental role and is considered the primary language in the field of nautical activities worldwide. Whether in national or international waters, it is common to encounter vessels from different countries, which makes it necessary to have a basic knowledge of the language. For this reason, it is highly recommended to acquire additional English training specifically focused on navigation. The courses offered by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) are highly esteemed due to their practical approach. The content of these courses focuses on aspects that will be applied during navigation and will be of great utility. Therefore, we…

The RYA Powerboat courses are for those who sail in small power boats: semi-rigid, fishing boats and sports boats that normally sail close to the coast. The types of commercial vessels, which mainly require a degree level are: rental boats for fishing, boats for adventure activities, port control boats, security boats for construction, etc. If you're looking for a larger boat with a cabin and the ability to navigate or work further from the coast, you'll most likely need a higher-level qualification, such as Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper, or Yachtmaster. These certifications are designed for those who want to handle…

All Yachtmaster Commercial Endorsement certificates must be renewed every 5 years, and for this, you must be in possession of or justify the following aspects: The shipments of the last 5 years, dates and data of the companies for which you have worked. At least 150 days of navigation should be justified. Medical Certificate (ENG1). ID photo Course ‘Professional Practices & Responsibilities (PPR)’. It is an RYA course that can be done online and is priced at € 50. Original Certificate that you want to renew ** If you can’t justify the required maritime service, but you can show that, for at least half of the five…

In this article, we explain the difference between  Patrón Profesional de Embarcaciones de Recreo ( PPER) and Yachtmaster Offshore. The big difference between these two qualifications is that PPER is a national title that allows you to work on boats using the Spanish flag, whereas Yachtmaster is an International title that allows you to work on boats of using the English flag or of the Commonwealth. In addition to that, holding a Yachtmaster certification provides reassurance to anyone looking to hire you, as it demonstrates that you're a skilled and competent skipper. It’s a recognized benchmark of expertise, showing that you have the knowledge and experience…

Although the Yachtmaster test is an eminently practical, this does not imply that it can be tackled without knowing the basic theory of navigation. The level of theoretical knowledge that is presupposed for any Yachtmaster (both coastal and offshore) means that, among other topics, the candidate must know: Nautical meteorology. Without being an expert in the subject, it is essential to have basic knowledge of how the meteorological phenomena that most affect navigation are produced, analysed and communicated. Tides and currents. As England is a coastal country affected by the tides, the agenda is more complete than in the Spanish…

Recently, we have received many questions about the possible validations between the Spanish qualifications, such as the Yacht Captain, the Harbour Master or the Captain of the Merchant Navy with the English qualifications of the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), especially with the Yachtmaster, which is composed of three titles: Yachtmaster Coastal, Yachtmaster Offshore and Ocean Yachtmaster. In the following link, you can find the various attributions offered by each of the titles of the RYA: RYA COURSES In some nautical schools, the offers of Captain of Yacht + Ocean Yachtmaster are being promoted. Be careful with these promotions because they…

Pere Valera Taltavull is the Chief of Studies and instructor for our RYA (Royal Yachting Association) courses. Accumulating more than 60,000 miles of sailing, he is recognised as a professional skipper by the Spanish Merchant Marine, having graduated from the RYA as a Yachtmaster Ocean. He started his professional career in 1998 in the world of charter. An activity he always combined with other works, all related to nautical topics. He has patrolled boats of different lengths and has made different oceanic crossings. He is very passionate about traditional navigation, as well as combining it with the most modern navigation methods. In 2013-2014,…