2012 Dates

Syllabus

Preparation for sea

• Is able to prepare a motor cruiser for sea, carry out fuel and engine checks, secure and stow all gear on deck and below.

Boat handling

• Can carry out the following manoeuvres under power in various wind and tide conditions and have an understanding of the different styles of hull and propulsion systems.
• Steering a straight course
• Turning in a confined space
• Anchoring at a pre-determined position
• Berthing alongside
• Leaving an alongside berth
• Picking up a mooring buoy
• Correct use of power trim and tabs
• Awareness of other water users

Navigation

• Is proficient in chart work and can carry out the following tasks
• Taking and plotting visual fixes
• Use of electronic navigation equipment for position fixing
• Use of waypoints
• Working up DR and EP
• Estimating tidal heights and tidal streams
• Working out course to steer to allow for tidal stream and leeway
• Knowledge of IALA buoyage
• Maintenance of navigational records
• Use of echo sounder

Pilotage

• Can prepare and execute a pilotage plan for entry into, or departure from, harbour
• Understands the use of leading and clearing lines
• Use of transits and soundings as aids to pilotage

Passage planning

• Can plan and make a coastal passage, taking into account the relevant navigational hazards and limitations imposed by that type of boat, weather, tide and the strength of the crew
• Has been introduced to the practical benefits and limitations of GPS

Meteorology

• Knows sources of forecast information
• Can interpret shipping forecasts and use a barometer as a forecasting aid

Rules of the Road

• Has a working knowledge of the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea

Engines

• Has a working knowledge of the prevention of common engine faults and is competent in the following areas
• Checks before starting, whilst running and after stopping
• Periodic maintenance checks on engines and electrical installations
• Requirements for tool kits, spares and lubricants
• Can clean water filters and knows location of impellers
• Knows location of filters and bleed points for fuel
• Knows tension of drive belts and how to change
• Fuel consumption at various speeds and the effects of fouling

Emergency situations

• Is able to take correct action as skipper for recovery of man overboard
• Can operate a radio telephone in an emergency and send a distress message
• Understands how to secure a tow
• Understands rescue procedures including helicopter rescue
• Understands distress flares and how to use a liferaft

Emergency situations

• Has experienced motor cruising at night, including leaving and entering a harbour, and understands the special considerations for pilotage plans, keeping a lookout and identifying marks at night

Awards

RYA Day Skipper [Motor] Tidal Practical Certificate with the recommendation for a RYA International Certificate of Competence.