RYA Day Skipper Practical - 5 days

The RYA Day Skipper Practical course teaches you how to take charge of a yacht with confidence, building on the foundations from Competent Crew. On completion, you’ll gain your RYA certificate and can apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) — often required to charter yachts in Europe.

Description

Your week on board is hands-on, engaging, and designed to build real confidence. You’ll take part in short passages, practical coaching sessions, and focused drills to develop your skills as a skipper.

You’ll build your yacht handling, seamanship, pilotage, and navigation skills with expert guidance from a friendly, supportive instructor.

Wherever possible, you’ll take charge and make real decisions as skipper, gaining valuable leadership and command experience.

By the end of the course, you’ll be ready to skipper a small sailing yacht with confidence in familiar waters by day.

RYA Day Skipper – key skills & training

Yacht preparation & deck work

  • Prepare the yacht for sea, including engine checks, sail selection, and stowage
  • Plan provisions and manage life on board
  • Reef and adjust sails to suit conditions
  • Take charge during mooring, anchoring, and picking up a buoy

Navigation & pilotage

  • Use charts, GPS, and visual fixes to navigate safely
  • Understand dead reckoning (DR) and estimated position (EP)
  • Work with tides, streams, and course adjustments
  • Plan and execute pilotage using buoys, transits, and depth information

Meteorology & rules of the road

  • Interpret weather forecasts and recognise changing conditions
  • Understand collision regulations (COLREGS) for safe navigation

Engines & maintenance

  • Understand basic engine systems and routine checks
  • Gain awareness of common maintenance tasks and fault finding

Emergency procedures

  • Man overboard recovery and onboard safety procedures
  • Use of distress signals and VHF radio in emergencies

Yacht handling & passage-making

  • Steer and trim sails effectively on all points of sail
  • Plan and execute short coastal passages
  • Gain experience in night pilotage and onboard routines

Sailing location & conditions

Sydney Harbour – a world-class training ground

  • Sail on iconic Sydney Harbour, ideal for developing skipper-level skills
  • A flexible itinerary is planned on day one to make the most of conditions
  • Experience a mix of sea breezes and varied conditions for real-world learning

We also run Day Skipper courses in the Whitsunday Islands during July and August — a fantastic opportunity to train in warm, tropical waters. View Whitsundays courses.

You can expect to see dolphins, whales, and, of course, Flying Fish along the way.

The yacht and the instructor

RYA-qualified instructors – Learn from experienced professionals delivering expert guidance in Flying Fish’s friendly and supportive style.

Safety and ratios – We follow RYA teaching standards, with small groups to ensure maximum hands-on experience.

The group is limited to five students, and you’ll train on one of our Beneteau 40 cruiser-racer yachts, taking part in all aspects of boat operation.

Before you start

  • You have completed the RYA Competent Crew course or have at least one week’s experience on a sailing yacht and are confident as a crew member under supervision. Experience on dinghies or keelboats is helpful.
  • You have a basic understanding of pilotage and are familiar with navigation using paper charts.
  • If your knowledge of navigation and safety is limited, we recommend completing the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Theory course. Alternatively, you can take the RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course online before you start.
  • For a deeper understanding, you may also wish to complete the COLREGS (IRPCS) Rules of the Road online course, which, combined with Essential Navigation, covers much of the Day Skipper theory syllabus.
  • The minimum age for RYA Day Skipper certification is 16.

What's included

  • Tuition, logbook, pre-course reading.
  • Life jackets and safety harnesses are provided, and we can loan you wet weather clothing if required.
  • All vessels have an enclosed bathroom on board.
  • Please bring your own lunch and snacks.
  • We provide tea, coffee and water.  

Qualifications and experience

  • 150 sea miles logged
  • RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate
  • On successful completion of the RYA Day Skipper Practical, you will be able to apply for the International Certificate for Operator of Pleasure Craft (ICC) from the RYA for a cost of approximately UK 50 pounds. You will then be able to Skipper/Charter vessels in the Mediterranean and other countries worldwide.

What next?

  • We recommend anyone operating as a Day Skipper should also hold a First Aid certificate and a Marine Radio Licence
  • Your next Flying Fish course should be RYA Coastal Skipper and RYA Yachtmaster Shore-based Theory.

Testimonials

  • William Jamieson - Sydney, Australia
    • RYA Day Skipper Practical 
    • "My wife and I had an absolutely amazing experience with Mathew on Let Loose. His kindness, patience and teaching methods helped us build the confidence we needed to tackle our next adventure - bareboat skippering in Gippsland in a few weeks time. We’ve worked with several RYA instructors, but we founds Mathew’s gift for teaching beyond compare.  Thank you so much. We will be back!"
  • Rob Scott - Queensland, Australia 
    • RYA Day Skipper Practical
    • "I cannot speak highly enough of the RYA Day Skipper course Flying Fish offers. The combination of expert instruction, practical hands-on experience, a world-class boat, and a stunning environment made this a truly unforgettable experience. I am confident about taking on the responsibilities of a Day Skipper, and I owe it all to Jim and your fantastic team. Thank you once again for providing such an outstanding course. I look forward to levelling up with the Day Skipper to Yachtmaster Fast Track soon."
  • Lyndsay Barnes - UK
    • Yachtmaster Offshore Fast Track
    • “ Joining the Flying Fish Yachtmaster programme was one of the best decisions I ever made, My new office is floating on Sydney Harbour. If you’re considering doing the course, sign up now and don’t give it a second thought. But be warned, it could change your life ”

Faq

  • Booking information
    • If you book some time in advance, you can secure your place on the course by paying a 20% holding deposit via the links provided above. This deposit will reserve your position until sixty days before the course start date, when the remaining balance of the course fees will be due.
    • Please be aware that the deposit is non-refundable; however, it can be transferred to any other course or event offered by Flying Fish.
    • If you book multiple courses, you will receive a 10% discount on your order when you purchase three or more courses in a single transaction.
    • We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, as spaces are limited.
    • View our Terms and Conditions.
  • What if the weather is bad?
    • Sailing is an all-weather sport. We like to say there is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!
    • We very rarely cancel a course due to bad weather.
  • What type of yacht will I learn on?
    • At Flying Fish, our basic training boats are Beneteau First 40.7s. These yachts provide an excellent balance between comfort and performance and are great for learning.
    • The layout of the 40.7 is very practical, with two double rear cabins, a forward cabin, a comfortable saloon, and an enclosed toilet and shower unit.
    • The yacht sleeps six in comfort or eight using the saloon bunks. They are fully equipped to live on board.
  • Can I book a private sailing course for a group or family?
    • Yes! We regularly welcome private groups of friends or family on bespoke courses.
    • A private RYA Day Skipper course is a great learning adventure to experience with your friends or family. What’s more, you can save money as you pay for four places on the course and can bring a maximum of five. The minimum age is 16.
    • If you like the sound of this, please get in touch via the enquiry button at the top of the page and let us help you plan your adventure.
  • What should I bring with me?
    • Food – BYO lunch and snacks. We provide tea, coffee and water on board.
    • Quick-dry clothing (shorts, T-shirts, long-sleeved tops).
    • Lightweight waterproof jacket.
    • Non-slip shoes.
    • Hat, high-factor sunscreen, and sunglasses.
    • Thermal base layer and fleece for colder months.
    • Waterproof jacket and trousers (loan sets available).
    • Life jackets are provided on board by Flying Fish.
    • A sense of adventure and a team spirit!

Similar courses

This course is your complete introduction to sailing, leading to a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) certificate. Designed for beginners, it builds confidence on the water and develops the skills needed to become an active, capable crew member. By the end of the course, you will be able to steer, handle sails and lines, and assist in all key onboard procedures.

More Information

The RYA Dayskipper shore-based course provides a comprehensive introduction to chartwork, navigation, meteorology, safety, and seamanship and provides the underpinning theory knowledge essential for recreational skippers. It will help you make informed decisions on the water and feel confident about being in charge.

More Information

Spend a fabulous day sailing on Sydney Harbour aboard one of our comfortable yachts. This is an excellent way to gently learn the ropes, meet new friends, and have a whole lot of fun in the great outdoors. Please choose one of our scheduled dates or enquire below to book it as a private event for your group.

More Information

Try sailing on Sydney Harbour in just 3 hours. Learn the basics, get hands-on at the helm, and experience the magic of sailing — all in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session. No experience needed. Just come aboard and give it a go.

More Information

This comprehensive course provides in-depth training in offshore navigation, meteorology, tides, and collision regulations. It delivers all the theoretical knowledge required to prepare for the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence and the AMSA Sailing Master Offshore (NC)

More Information

This one-day Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) approved course teaches you to use VHF (Short Range) as well as MF and HF (Long Range) radio for distress, urgency, safety, and general calls. The course includes GMDSS and DSC

More Information

Hamilton Island Race Week – A Flying Fish Favourite! Set in the stunning Whitsunday Islands, this premier event offers fantastic trade wind sailing in a tropical paradise. A Flying Fish flagship event, so book early to secure your crew spot and join the fun!

More Information

As a skipper, it is important to be aware of the qualification requirements when operating a vessel in foreign waters. For recreational boating—particularly when chartering in countries such as Greece or Croatia—the International Certificate of Competence (ICC) is commonly accepted by local maritime authorities and charter companies as evidence of boating competence.

More Information

This one day course is for the Sydney boating enthusiast who wants a basic understanding of the operation and maintenance of an outboard motor. We teach you how to take simple measures to prevent mechanical breakdown at sea and to rectify defects which do not require workshop support.

More Information

Marine First Aid training designed for people who work and operate on the water. Ideal for boat owners, watersports instructors, yacht skippers and crew, the course develops practical emergency response skills for marine environments and leads to the nationally recognised Statement of Attainment HLTAID011 – Provide First Aid.

More Information

Join a spectacular offshore passage from the Whitsundays to Sydney. This is a fantastic opportunity for adventure-minded sailors to build sea miles and complete offshore qualifying passages under the guidance of a professional instructor. Whether you're preparing for the RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence or simply seeking an unforgettable sailing experience, this voyage delivers challenge, learning, and adventure in equal measure.

More Information

Be part of the crew on an ocean sailing passage to a stunning Pacific island destination. This superb training adventure is ideal for sailors who want to experience the magic of blue-water cruising.

More Information

This magnificent one thousand-mile sailing adventure is definitely a Flying Fish favourite. It provides an excellent opportunity for competent sailors to gain sea miles, offshore experience, and qualifying passages, in preparation for the RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence assessment.

More Information

Learn some tricks of the trade so you can be safe on the race course. Racing with spinnakers is exciting but it also presents new risks. Flying a kite requires the crew to perform a number of tasks in the correct order.

More Information

The RYA Coastal Skipper Practical course is ideal for confident Day Skippers or sailors with equivalent experience looking to take the next step into offshore sailing. This five-day program focuses on advancing seamanship, navigation, and boat handling skills, with an emphasis on operating safely and effectively in more challenging coastal and offshore conditions.

More Information

This one-day RYA Diesel Engine course provides a practical introduction to the key systems of a marine diesel engine. You'll gain the knowledge and confidence to carry out basic maintenance, prevent common causes of engine failure, and handle minor mechanical issues at sea—without needing workshop support.

More Information

The RYA Day Skipper Practical course builds on Competent Crew and teaches you how to take command of a yacht. You’ll learn to plan and lead short passages, handle the boat under sail and power, and make safe, confident decisions on board.

More Information

The RYA Powerboat Level 2 course at Flying Fish is essential for professional yacht crew, watersports instructors and marine tourism operators. Train on rigid inflatable boats in Sydney Harbour and gain practical skills in boat handling, safety, and high-speed driving. The certificate is internationally recognised and commercially endorsable.

More Information

The iconic 628-nautical-mile Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of the world’s toughest ocean challenges—often called the Everest of amateur yacht racing. Each year, more than 100 yachts take on the elements and the competition in a suberb test of seamanship, endurance, and teamwork. Completing this legendary offshore race is a major milestone on any sailor’s resume.

More Information

This two-day course meets the requirements of World Sailing (formerly ISAF), RYA and AS for crew planning to take part in offshore yacht races like the Sydney to Hobart race. The course is also highly recommended for anyone going to sea for any purpose. You'll learn essential emergency procedures and survival skills that could one day save your life. No prior experience needed.

More Information

Get your NSW Boat Licence in one fun, practical day with Flying Fish. This hands-on course includes all required theory, on-water training, and testing, delivered by expert instructors. Suitable for adults and children aged 12+, with the option to add a Jetski (PWC) Licence when you book

More Information

Get Qualified to Skipper a Charter Yacht in Just 4 Weeks! Go from beginner to RYA Day Skipper with this intensive training program. Gain internationally recognized qualifications, including the RYA Day Skipper certificate and ICC (International Certificate of Competence), while sailing in iconic Sydney Harbour.

More Information

For beginners, sailors, and boaters seeking a solid foundation in navigation, safety, and seamanship — this self-paced RYA course teaches you to read charts, plan routes, and navigate with confidence. Ideal for sailing holidays and your first step towards becoming a capable skipper.

More Information

This course provides a grounding in the essential maintenance tasks required to keep a modern cruising yacht on the water.

More Information

This dynamic and comprehensive vocational program combines practical on-water training with theoretical shore-based instruction and leads to the internationally recognized RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence and AMSA Sailing Master Offshore certification. These globally respected qualifications provide graduates with the essential credentials for a professional yachting career, opening doors to employment opportunities in Australia, the UK, Europe, and the Caribbean.

More Information

Learn to sail in style on fabulous Sydney Harbour. Join a friendly crew on board one of our fast, comfortable 40 foot training yachts and let us show you the ropes. The RYA Competent Crew course is a hands-on introduction to sailing for beginners.

More Information

This course provides a practical and enjoyable introduction to dinghy sailing for beginners. Suitable for youth and adults, it focuses on developing essential skills in a safe and supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby or build confidence on the water, this program is the perfect first step.

More Information

The Sydney Harbour Regatta is Australia's premier inshore yacht racing event. The exhilarating race programme on the water is matched only by the fantastic 'après sail' social scene at Middle Harbour Yacht Club.

More Information

Book a Start Yachting Weekend for a structured learn to sail course and experience the thrill of sailing while learning the fundamentals in a fun, hands-on environment. Add two Competent Crew Weekends for a comprehensive introduction to yachting, leading to the internationally recognised RYA Competent Crew certificate.

More Information

Sail the iconic route from Hobart to Sydney in on our impressive, cutter rigged, Sydney to Hobart race yacht Arctos.

More Information

This is a re-validation course for those who have completed the two-day AS/World Sailing Offshore Safety and Sea Survival course but whose certificates will soon expire.

More Information

Join our Whitsundays Sailing Adventure course and learn to sail or refresh your skills in one of the world's most stunning sailing locations. Escape the winter chills and enjoy a memorable week sailing in paradise with us. Learn as much as you want from our friendly instructor or relax as hard as you like!

More Information

This course, based in the stunning Whitsudnay Islands, provides a comprehensive introduction to yachting and leads to a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) certificate. The course is designed for novice sailors who want to become valuable and active crew members. By the end of the course, you should be able to steer, handle sails and mooring lines, and assist in all boat and sail handling procedures on board.

More Information

This comprehensive skills development course based in the stunning Whitsunday Islands leads to the RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate. RYA Day Skipper certificate holders are entitled to an International Certificate for Operator of Pleasure Craft (ICC), which is generally required for a European yacht charter.

More Information

Learn the COLREGS (Rules of the Road) — essential for safe boating, Yachtmaster exams, and commercial certification, covering all rules required for Yachtmaster preparation.

More Information