Basic Navigation and Safety

Located in Courses | Shore Based and On-line Theory

RYA/YA Accredited

The Basic Navigation and Safety course provides an introduction to the basic skills required before taking a small boat to sea or taking an active part in running a boat.

Our shorebased instructors are experienced yachtsmen who hold a Shorebased Instructor or Yachtmaster Instructor qualification. The course is run over 3 days.

Course Content:

Charts, publications and terms

  • Basic terms
  • Chart overview
  • Introduction to chart datum and depths
 Passage planning 

  • SOLAS V requirements
  • Pre planning
  • Chart choice
Buoyage 

  • Lateral buoys
  • Cardinal buoys
  • Where to find information
 Electronic navigation 

  • >GPS terms
  • >GPS use
  • >Using waypoints
Safety

  • Personal and boat safety equipment
  • Safety procedures and briefing
  • Communications
  • Engines checks
  • Rescue procedures
 Rules of the road 

  • Risk of collision
  • Who gives way

Weather forecasts

  • Sources of forecast
  • Terms used in forecast
Navigation

  • Plotting position
  • Measuring distance and bearing
  • Position fix
  • Heading
 Pilotage 

  • Harbour information
  • Transits
  • Pilotage plan
Anchoring

  • Where to anchor
  • How to anchor
 Tides

  • Tidal Streams
  • Tidal Heights

The course is recognised by Yachting Australia and the Royal Yachting Association.
There is an assessment paper and certificates are issued on successful completion. Certificates are recognised overseas. You will have advanced understanding in the theory of navigation and marine safety knowledge.