Day Skipper / Watch Leader Syllabus


The syllabus is shown below with an indication of the depth of knowledge required and the minimum time which is to be spent on each subject area. You can tick off each topic as it is completed.


A: Full knowledge


A depth of understanding which is fundamental to safe navigation and good seamanship. The student will be able to apply the knowledge in a practical situation and also appreciates why the knowledge is so important.


B: Working knowledge


Understands what knowledge to apply, when and how to apply it for a particular undertaking. Recognises what level their knowledge is at relative to a given situation. The student is aware that their knowledge is broad but not necessarily deep.


C: Outline knowledge


An awareness of the subject area but with only a superficial understanding of its application in practice. The student recognises that further knowledge of the topic will be required in some practical situations and knows enough to find appropriate sources of information or learning.


1 Nautical terms Parts of a boat and hull General nautical terminology 2 Ropework Knowledge of the properties of synthetic ropes in common use 3 Anchorwork


Characteristics of different types of anchor Factors to take into account when anchoring


4 Safety Knowledge of the safety equipment to be carried, its stowage and use


(see G103 RYA Boat Safety Handbook) Fire precautions and firefighting


Use of personal safety equipment, harnesses and life jackets Ability to send a distress signal by VHF radio


Basic knowledge of rescue procedures including helicopter rescue Stability


5 International regulations for preventing collisions at sea Steering and sailing rules (5, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12-19)


General rules (all other rules)


6 Definition of position, course and speed Latitude and longitude


Knowledge of standard navigational terms True bearings and courses The knot


7 Navigational charts and publications


Information shown on charts, chart symbols and representation of direction and distance Navigational publications in common use Chart correction


8 Navigational drawing instruments Use of parallel rulers, dividers and proprietary plotting instruments 9 Compass Application of variation


Awareness of deviation and its causes Use of hand-bearing compass


4 2


B C B


1 B 2


B C C


1


B B B C


3


A B


3 B


B B B B C


1


B B


0.5 B


time (hours) 2


Minimum knowledge


B B


Depth of


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