Set Sail as a Skipper, How to become a Skipper
Becoming a qualified skipper is the gateway to sailing freedom. Whether you dream of chartering a yacht, leading a sailing adventure, or owning your own boat, the journey starts with gaining the right skills and certification. The RYA Day Skipper course is the perfect first step, giving you the knowledge and confidence to take command of a yacht in familiar waters.
At Yacht Sail Training, we offer comprehensive RYA-accredited courses in Croatia, helping you progress from beginner to fully competent skipper.
What Does a Skipper Do?
A skipper is responsible for the overall safety and navigation of the yacht. Key responsibilities include:
- Planning and executing passages safely.
- Navigating using charts, GPS, and weather forecasts.
- Mooring and anchoring techniques.
- Ensuring crew and vessel safety.
- Handling different sailing conditions and making key decisions.
If you’ve completed an RYA Competent Crew course and are ready to take the next step, the RYA Day Skipper courseis your next milestone.
How to Become a Skipper: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gain Basic Sailing Experience
If you’re completely new to sailing, start with an RYA Competent Crew course to learn the fundamentals of life onboard.
Step 2: Complete the RYA Day Skipper Theory Course
Before getting on the water, the Day Skipper theory course covers essential topics like:
- Navigation and chart reading
- Tides and weather forecasting
- Passage planning
- Collision regulations and safety procedures
Step 3: Take the RYA Day Skipper Practical Course
This 5-day hands-on course gives you the skills to skipper a yacht under the supervision of an instructor. You’ll learn:
- Boat handling in different conditions
- Man overboard drills and emergency procedures
- Docking and anchoring techniques
- Decision-making and leadership as a skipper
Step 4: Obtain Your International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
Many charter companies require an ICC, which you can obtain automatically with your RYA Day Skipper certificate.
Step 5: Gain More Experience & Advance to Yachtmaster
Once you have completed Day Skipper, you can build miles and progress to more advanced courses like RYA Coastal Skipper or RYA Yachtmaster.
Internal Link: Book Your RYA Day Skipper Course
Why Train in Croatia?
1. Ideal Training Conditions
- The Adriatic Sea offers predictable winds and calm waters, perfect for learning.
- Short distances between islands make for real-world navigation experience.
2. Stunning Island Sailing Routes
- Practice your skills while sailing through Milna, Brač, Hvar, and Vis.
3. Top-Quality Training & Facilities
- Train at Marina Kanarija, Milna, our well-equipped base.
Recommended Image: A new skipper confidently steering a yacht under sail in the Adriatic Sea.
Alt Text: A new skipper navigating a yacht in Croatia after completing RYA training.
What You’ll Gain from Becoming a Skipper
Confidence to sail independently.
Skills to handle a yacht safely and efficiently.
The ability to charter a yacht and lead sailing trips.
A stepping stone towards professional sailing certifications.
Ready to Become a Skipper? Start Your Journey Today!
If you’re looking to gain the confidence to charter a yacht or take your sailing to the next level, the RYA Day Skipper course is the perfect place to start.
At Yacht Sail Training, we provide expert instruction in a supportive, hands-on environment to help you achieve your sailing goals.
