The RYA Radar Course is a one-day introduction to using radar on small craft for navigation and collision avoidance when visibility shrinks. You learn what the picture actually means, how to tune a set without turning the screen into snow, and how to combine radar with lookout and chartwork instead of trusting a green blob because it looks authoritative.
Most centres teach ashore with simulators. Some integrate a live set on a yacht or powerboat when equipment allows. Both are valid. No prior radar experience is required, though skippers who already hold Day Skipper theory will recognise collision-regulation contexts faster. The syllabus covers propagation quirks, target discrimination, plotting and basic navigation techniques.
Radar is a supplement to eyes and ears, not a replacement. Instructors joke that the best radar target is still the one you saw through the window first. Wear reading glasses if you need them. Squinting at range rings all day is tiring. Leave a comment when you book if you want a school that offers simulator time on your plotter brand.
The Radar Course is assessed continuously by your RYA instructor through simulator or onboard exercises. There is no separate written exam.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesIt is a one-day course teaching small-craft radar for navigation and collision avoidance: set controls, target interpretation, plotting and integration with lookout.
Most delivery is classroom with simulators; some centres use live sets afloat.
None formally. Coastal navigation knowledge from Day Skipper Theory helps collision scenarios make sense.
Leave a comment when you book if you are a complete beginner to navigation; tutors still start from radar basics.
One day, typically six to eight hours with breaks. Afloat versions may need travel time to the boat.
Arrive rested; screen work is surprisingly draining.
No separate exam paper. Your instructor assesses practical radar exercises and discussion throughout the day.
Completion certificate follows successful participation in the syllabus tasks.
No. Centres provide simulators or training boats with equipment.
Bring photos of your own set if you want advice on controls after class.
Notebook, pencil, reading glasses and lunch unless provided. Warm layer for marina classrooms in winter.
Download your plotter manual if you already own radar; comparison questions are welcome.
Use radar more confidently in fog and darkness on your boat, and support coastal skippering training.
Many skippers take it before Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster prep if radar was a gap.
No RYA minimum. Teenagers and adults attend together.
Younger students benefit if they already hold basic navigation knowledge.
Classroom simulators are most common; some schools offer afloat radar on a yacht or powerboat.
Leave a comment when you book if you need live equipment rather than simulation.
No. Radar assists eyes and ears; instructors emphasise keeping a visual watch whenever possible.
Collision regulations still apply; plotting practice links to IRPCS action.
adventuro lists RYA centres running Radar courses at marinas and training rooms nationwide.
Check if simulators match your onboard brand before you choose a date.
