RYA Motorboat Cruising Scheme
17/02/2026
Understanding Where to Start or Where to Go Next
The RYA Motorboat Cruising Scheme is primarily followed by those wishing to move into Motorboating. Generally this is for those operating vessels over about 10 meters in overall length.
Starting at the 'RYA Helmsman' level, a two day introductory course for those new to boating or moving into motor cruising scheme with no previous power or motor experience.
During this course, you will become familiar with the layout of a vessel of this type, be made aware of the safety equipment and how to operate it in the event of an emergency. Basic boat handling during this course, teaches you how to safely move the vessel around in both the marina and in open water. Handling lines and fenders and acting as part of the crew, will give you the opportunity to assist other member aboard, when undertaking the numerous manoeuvres throughout the course.
Once completed and after gaining the "Day Skipper Theory" knowledge, as well some additional practical experience, it will be time to move onto the "Day Skipper Practical" Motor Course. Here you will advance your practical boat handling skills and be required to apply the skills and knowledge gained, in the Day Skipper Theory course.
As a Skipper you will be taught how to take charge of the vessel as well as the other members of the crew and how to utilise their skills, to ensure the vessel is operated safely and efficiently. You will require to understand your responsibilities as a Skipper and how you are accountable for the safety of the vessel, the crew and other water users.
During the Day skipper Practical, you will have the opportunity to experience operating at night, under the guidance of your instructor.
Again, when the time is right, you might want to move onto the next level. The "Coastal Skipper Practical" Motor Course, takes you further both by day and by night. Using the Theoretical knowledge gained from the "Coastal/Yachtmaster Theory" course, you will required to plan and complete a variety of passages, by both day and night. These will be conducted in tidal waters and give you the opportunity to leave from and return to Ports/Harbours, in less favourable lighting & possibly more testing, weather conditions.
And if you still need to go further either for work or for fun, then why not test yourself and complete the "Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore Exam" and gain that Certificate of Competence (CoC).
Solent Boat Training offer "Exam Preparation" prior to undertaking your chosen exam. One of our Yachtmaster Instructors will guide you through a variety of scenarios, passages and handling exercises, preparing you for your RYA Exam, which will be conducted with an RYA Examiner onboard at the end of the preparation phase.
Run over 5 Days, the first 4 Days consists of honing those skills learnt during all previous courses, ironing out the wrinkles and polishing, ready to receive the Examiner on Day 5, knowing you are as best prepared as possible.
