Sunsail offers a range of shore-based courses designed to improve the standard of seamanship of its students. Topics covered include radio skills, first aid, navigation and diesel engines.
These courses are suited to anyone who sails, but may be particularly useful to individuals planning to pursue a career in the yachting industry or those contemplating the purchase of a boat. Some of the courses offered are pre-requisites for higher qualifications.
All of Sunsail’s shore-based courses are conducted in our dedicated training facility at Port Solent, on the South Coast of England.
The RYA radar Course is designed to enable students to use boat radar to assist with decision making at sea in relation to issues of navigation and pilotage, while minimising the risk of collision. This is a course that will build confidence in terms of course-plotting and give an understanding of how radar equipment functions and can be used to best advantage.
Pricing: from £99pp
The RYA GMDSS Radio Course teaches students how to communicate effectively using the low power, short-range marine GMDSS VHF radio, whether hand-held or fixed type. The syllabus for the Short Range Certificate for VHF GMDSS radio is covered and, after satisfactory assessment, the certificate will be awarded to students who can demonstrate an ability to perform routine procedures and communications. This qualification is essential for all of those wishing to take RYA Day Skipper level qualifications and above.
Split between theory and practical sections, the RYA Diesel Engine Course is designed to cover basic diesel engine maintenance and repairs. The course will explain the main features of a marine diesel engine and how it works, and will equip students with the skills to get their yacht home safely should they suffer engine failure while at sea. After the course, students will be able to maintain and carry out minor repairs to a diesel engine.
Pricing: £139pp
The RYA ISAF Offshore Safety Course fulfils the safety training requirement for sailors participating in ISAF (International Sailing Federation) offshore sailing events. The course is designed specifically for racing sailors but is ideal for any offshore sailor in that the areas covered are relevant to all offshore sailing.
Pricing: from £99pp
The RYA Small Craft First Aid Course is designed to teach students how to deal with the full range of medical situations which they may encounter at sea, ranging from headaches and sunburn to the first care of a man-overboard victim. This is a course that is strongly recommended for any sailor and is necessary for those wishing to take the Yachtmaster Coastal course or above.
Pricing: from £99pp
The RYA Sea Survival Course is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to survive at sea in the event of a marine emergency. A two hour practical session is included in the course, which is recommended for students intending to progress to Yachtmaster Coastal level or above.
Students will be instructed in safety equipment and how to use it correctly. This is compulsory for those wishing to use their qualifications professionally and to become commercially endorsed.
Pricing: from £130pp
The Essential Navigation and Seamanship Course is an online course for anyone interested in sailing! This course will give you the essential knowledge needed when you’re afloat, from navigation to safety and seamanship to passage planning.