RYA Day Skipper Motor - Seven Seas School of Yachting

RYA Day Skipper Motor Course

**Learn to take command of a motor cruiser* in Athens**. Start your first skipper training in Greece with top-tier RYA tuition.

The RYA Day Skipper Motor course is designed to equip aspiring skippers with the practical skills and knowledge needed to safely take charge of a motor cruiser* on short coastal passages during daylight hours.

Its primary goal is to build confidence in planning and executing passages, handling the vessel, and making sound decisions for the safety and comfort of all on board.

By the end of the course, participants should be able to take command of a motor cruiser* in familiar waters, demonstrating competent seamanship, good situational awareness, and the ability to skipper safely and responsibly.

*What is a motor cruiser?

In contrast to speedboats, motor cruisers are larger motorboats up to 24m in size, typically with two inboard engines and accommodation facilities, meant for multi-day trips.

You will gain hands-on practice and build confidence in operating and manoeuvring a twin inboard engine motor cruiser, while becoming familiar with the specific characteristics of this type of vessel for future charters or potential purchases.

Key Course Information

Course Name

RYA Day Skipper Motor

Location

Departs from: Kallithea Marina, Athens
Sails in: Saronic Gulf

Duration

4 full days (usually 10:00 – 18:00) with disembarkation at the end of each daily session (no onboard accommodation)

Level

Intermediate

Prerequisites

5 days, 100 miles and 4 night hours on a motor cruiser
RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Theory

Minimum Age

16 years

Group Size

Maximum 4 students per yacht

Student-Instructor Ratio

4:1 (maximum)

Format

Shared training, private tuition or own-boat tuition

Instructor

RYA Cruising Instructor onboard

Language of Instruction

English

What You Learn

Navigation, safety, passage planning, skippering skills, skipper mindset

Course Outcome

RYA Day Skipper Motor Certificate
ΙCC (endorsed for power) available for eligible nationalities

Season

Courses available year-round

Costs

€1500 per person

Related Courses

RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Theory
RYA SRC VHF Course

Next Step

Mile Building
RYA Coastal Skipper Motor Course

Frequently asked questions

Who is this course for?

· Crew Members: Those with experience as crew members who wish to take on the role of skipper.
· New Boat Owners: Individuals who have recently acquired a motor cruiser and wish to gain the skills necessary to operate it safely.
· Powerboaters Transitioning to Larger Vessels: Those with experience in operating smaller powerboats looking to move on to larger motor cruising yachts.
· Aspiring Skippers: Individuals aiming to develop the practical skills and confidence to take command of a small yacht.

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.

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.

What will I learn?

The RYA Day Skipper Motor Course provides the ideal transition from crew to competent skipper, developing the practical skills and confidence needed to take command of a motor vessel. Throughout the course, participants will focus on the following key areas:

Preparation for sea
Navigation and pilotage
Collision Regulations (Rules of the Road)
Basic meteorology
Passage planning and monitoring
Simple boat maintenance and essential engine knowledge
Emergency situations (passive and active safety) and effective use of VHF radio
Boat handling in harbours and at sea

Do I need to complete any theory in advance?

Yes, participants are required to complete the RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Theory or possess equivalent theory knowledge before starting the practical course. This ensures you have the essential knowledge of navigation, charts, weather, and safety, allowing you to focus fully on developing practical skills on board.

Who will I be sharing the boat with?

The cap for participants on any RYA motor cruising course is set at 4, 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

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 Day Skipper Motor Certificate. This license is a widely accepted certification that allows holders to legally operate motor cruisers in many countries worldwide, and also entitles holders to apply to the RYA for an International Certificate of Competence (eligibility requirements apply).

Available Yachts

Jetcraft P10

CHRISTIE

Availability

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