RYA Coastal Skipper Sail - Seven Seas School of Yachting

RYA Coastal Skipper Sail Course

Advanced skipper training in Greece

The RYA Coastal Skipper Sail course is designed for experienced sailors ready to expand their abilities and take on longer coastal passages, more challenging conditions, and greater responsibility on board. Sailing through the Greek islands, you’ll apply advanced navigation, passage planning, and boat handling while skippering under the guidance of a professional RYA Yachtmaster instructor.

This course bridges the gap between Day Skipper and Yachtmaster, helping you refine your judgment and sharpen your skills. It’s ideal for those aiming to skipper more independently, or prepare for Yachtmaster exams

We are the only RYA Training Centre in Greece offering 7-day sailing courses — that’s 7 full days of training at sea, providing 40% more sailing time than the standard 5-day courses offered by most providers.

Key Course Information

Course Name

RYA Coastal Skipper Sail

Location

Departs from: Alimos Marina, Athens
Sails in: Saronic Gulf or Cyclades

Duration

7 days (live aboard)

Level

Advanced

Prerequisites

15 days of active sailing, 2 days as skipper, 300 miles and 8 night hours
RYA Coastal Skipper Shorebased Theory

Minimum Age

17 years

Group Size

Maximum 5 students per yacht

Student-Instructor Ratio

5:1 (maximum)

Format

Shared training or private tuition

Instructor

RYA Yachtmaster Instructor onboard

Language of Instruction

English

What You Learn

Advanced passage planning, night sailing, heavy weather handling, leadership, undertaking longer passages

Course Outcome

RYA Coastal Skipper Sail Certificate

Season

Courses available year-round

Costs

€1150 – €1950, depending on the season and the tuition boat

Related Courses

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Theory
RYA SRC VHF Course

Next Step

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal

Frequently asked questions

Who is this course for?

Sailors who already hold the RYA Day Skipper qualification with extra independent skippering experience or have equivalent practical experience.

Those aiming to skipper a yacht on longer coastal or offshore passages, including night sailing.

Individuals wanting to develop advanced navigation, passage planning, and leadership skills.

Why take this course with Seven Seas?

More than just certification – Our goal is to provide meaningful training, helping you build real skills and lasting confidence on the water, not just a piece of paper.

Extended duration – We offer 7 days of training instead of the standard 5 to ensure effective tuition and sufficient practice time

Experienced and supportive instructors – You’ll be guided by a team of highly skilled RYA instructors with years of experience and a deep understanding of the local waters.

Sail and explore the Greek islands – Learn to sail in one of the world’s most diverse and beautiful areas, with the added bonus of cultural immersion and island discovery.

What will I learn?

The RYA Coastal Skipper Course is designed for sailors who are ready to progress beyond Day Skipper and take charge of a yacht on more challenging coastal passages. The course focuses on developing advanced skippering skills, including passage planning, boat handling in demanding conditions, leadership, and sound decision-making. Throughout the course, participants will delve into the following areas:

· Skipper Responsibilities: Commanding the yacht, crew management, decision-making
· Advanced Boat Handling: Sail and power handling, anchoring, mooring, heavy-weather techniques
· Passage Planning & Navigation: Coastal navigation, pilotage, charts, tides, compass use, night navigation basics
· Safety & Emergency Procedures: Man-overboard, fire, flooding, safety drills, basic first aid, emergency planning
· Practical Experience: Leading longer passages, handling the yacht in varying conditions, passage-making experience

Do I need to complete any theory in advance?

Yes, participants are required to complete the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased Theory before starting the practical course. This provides essential knowledge in navigation, passage planning, tides, weather, safety, and collision regulations, allowing you to focus on advanced skippering skills during your time on board.

How does a typical day on board look like?

Each day, your hands-on sessions will kick off in the early morning and typically wrap up in the early afternoon. These sessions may involve traveling between destinations or practicing in the harbor where the boat is berthed.

Following the practical sessions, there might be some theory to cover. As the afternoon progresses into evening, you’ll have the opportunity to unwind, savor your dinner outdoors, and explore the surroundings through sightseeing. It’s a balanced blend of learning and leisure to make the most of your experience.

Who will I be sharing the boat with?

The cap for participants on any RYA sailing course is set at 5, ensuring optimal learning and practice opportunities for each attendee, along with dedicated attention from the instructor.

Rather than relying on automatic booking systems, we prioritize direct communication with all prospective participants. This approach allows us to thoughtfully create groups with individuals who are compatible.

Our groups comprise individuals from diverse cultures worldwide, creating a vibrant and dynamic social environment.

Can I book this course as private training?

Yes, you can!

We offer the option to run this course as private training, tailored to your schedule, your own boat (if applicable), and your specific learning needs. It can be organised for individuals, couples, families, or small groups who prefer a more personalised experience

What are the prices for this course?

For group training, pricing depends on the season you choose to join us (low, mid, or high), the training boat you prefer, and your accommodation options. Prices range from €1,150 to €1,950.

To see the exact cost for your preferred dates, please refer to our availability calendar.
For private tuition, as this is a fully tailor-made package, please contact us for a personalised quote.

Will I receive a certificate at the end of the course?

Yes, you will!

Upon successful completion of the course, you will receive your RYA Coastal Skipper Sail Certificate. This license is a widely accepted certification that allows holders to charter boats is many countries worldwide, and also entitles holders to apply to the RYA for an International Certificate of Competence (eligibility requirements apply).

Available Yachts

Beneteau 45F5

S/Y FIRST

Jeanneau 44i

S/Y IKAROS

Bavaria 40

S/Y EMILY

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