Stepping up to skipper level starts with solid theory and clear understanding of how to plan and manage a passage. This course gives you the knowledge needed to take charge of a yacht or motor cruiser in familiar waters by day. You can choose structured classroom learning or a flexible online format to suit your schedule.
Throughout the course, you’ll build a strong foundation in navigation and seamanship, starting with the basics and progressing into practical passage planning. Classroom sessions are structured and interactive, with plenty of time to work through chart exercises, ask questions and apply what you’ve learned with instructor support. If you choose the online route, the same material is delivered through guided modules, allowing you to learn at your own pace with support available when needed.
As your understanding develops, you’ll begin planning realistic coastal passages, factoring in tides, weather and navigation marks. You’ll also cover collision regulations, safety procedures and decision-making, helping you feel more confident taking responsibility on board. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to plan and execute short trips and be well prepared for the Day Skipper Practical course.
Classroom courses are delivered in Southampton, with sessions running from Hamble Point Marina and Marchwood. These locations sit within easy reach of the Solent, one of the UK’s busiest and most varied boating areas, making them a fitting place to learn navigation that directly applies to real conditions.
For those studying online, you can complete the course from anywhere in the UK, with full access to materials and instructor support. If you later progress to practical training, the Solent provides an excellent environment to apply your knowledge, with tidal streams, navigation marks and varied traffic offering realistic experience.
No formal qualifications are required to join this course, making it suitable for beginners and those stepping up from crew roles. Having spent some time on the water can be helpful, but everything is explained clearly so you can build confidence as you go.
A basic interest in boating and navigation is all you need to get started. If you’re unsure whether this is the right level, guidance is available to help you choose the most suitable course for your experience.
Learning is delivered in a way that keeps things clear, practical and easy to apply, whether you’re sitting in a classroom or studying online. The focus is on helping you understand how navigation works in real situations, rather than just memorising theory, so you leave with knowledge you can actually use on the water.
With a background that includes offshore sailing, global passages and years of instruction, Rob brings real insight into how decisions are made at sea. His approach is supportive and straightforward, helping you build confidence step by step while keeping the course engaging and relevant to your goals.
About the centre
Hamble-le-Rice, Southampton
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