Time is spent creating pilotage and open water plans ahead of a passage on day three.Day two will also look a bit more at the mechanics of the engine and systems on board and you will be making the engine checks yourselves, getting the craft started etc.

Day three often includes a longer passage which is executed using the plan created the day before. Various electronic methods will be introduced as a means to transit the passage and position fix as you go. The end of day three usually involves a night passage where you get to experience the very real differences involved in entering a port/harbour at night.

Day four gives us the chance to revisit any areas that we need to including of course more slow speed handling or any areas you want to spend more time on.

Once you have reached the standard at which we can award the Dayskipper certificate should you wish you can go on to apply for your ICC from the RYA. The relevant form can be downloaded here which coupled with a photo and a copy of your certificate will get you your licence.

If you are a member of the RYA then your ICC is free else it costs approximately £43. Coincidently joining the RYA costs about the same so we would generally advise that you join then get the ICC free. If you intend travelling abroad shortly after your course and thus require your ICC to be issued quickly we advise that you join the RYA a few weeks before your course and then call the relevant department to try to ensure a quick turnaround for your application my own only took a week.

In contrast to RYA Powerboat Level 2 the RYA Dayskipper Practical certificate cannot be attained via ‘Direct Assessment’. If you want to undertake a direct assessment then you will need to consider the International Certificate of Competence instead (the ‘ICC’).

A further consideration when attending a motor cruising course is where you take it. ‘Tidal’ schools award certificates with a tidal endorsement. This means that the student has learnt in conditions where tides and currents must be considered. Generally speaking if you intend using your boat in coastal waters ensure that you undertake a course with a tidal school. Schools in the Mediterranean generally cannot award tidal certificates.

Passage making

Can plan and make a coastal passsage, taking into account the relevant navigational hazards and limitations imposed by the type of boat, weather, tide and the strength of the crew; Has been introduced to practical benefits and limitations of GPS Meteorology: Knows sources of forecast information, can interpret shipping forecasts and use of a barometer as a forecasting aid Rule of the road: Has a working knowledge of the application of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea

Engines

Has a working knowledge of the application of the prevention of common engine faults and is competent in the following areas: Checks before starting, whilst running and after stopping; Periodic maintenance checks on engines and electrical installations Requirements for tool kits, spares, and lubricants; Can clean water filters & knows location of impellors; Knows location of filters & bleed points for fuel; Knows tensions of drive belts & how to change; Fuel consumption at various speeds & the effect of fouling

Emergency situations

Is able to take correct action as skipper for recovery of man overboard; Can operate a radiotelephone in an emergency and send a distress message; Understands how to secure a tow, rescue procedures including helicopter rescue; Understands distress flares and how to use a liferaft

Night cruising

Has experienced motor cruising at night, including leaving and entering harbour, and understands the special considerations for piltoage plans, keeping a lookout and identifying marks by night.