Professional Sailing Qualification
Introducing the RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track
Imagine accelerating your sailing career with a world-class qualification in just 17 weeks. The RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track course, brought to you by West Coast Lisbon Sailing Centre, is designed for ambitious individuals eager to master the seas and achieve professional qualifications swiftly. This intensive program combines theory and practical learning to equip participants with the skills and knowledge needed to become a competent and confident sailor.
Why Choose West Coast Lisbon Sailing Centre?
West Coast Lisbon Sailing Centre stands out as a premier Sailing School for aspiring sailors. Our expert instructors bring decades of experience, ensuring you receive top-notch training and mentorship. With new and well equipped sailing boats, personalized coaching, and hands-on experience, you'll develop the confidence and skills needed to excel in the competitive world of sailing.
Why Lisbon and Portugal are Perfect for Learning to Sail
Lisbon and Portugal offer an exceptional setting for aspiring sailors, with the vast Atlantic Ocean right at our doorstep. The region boasts an array of ideal conditions for learning to sail, including consistent days with wind, dynamic tides, and varying currents, making it an adventurous yet rewarding experience. The temperate climate ensures that we have plenty of great weather for sailing year-round, allowing students to maximise their time on the water. In addition, Portugal is home to numerous well-equipped marinas that provide excellent facilities for both novice and experienced sailors. Beyond the technical aspects of sailing, the vibrant culture and friendly atmosphere in Portugal make it an enjoyable place to learn, fostering camaraderie among fellow students and instructors alike.
What is the RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track?
The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is recognized as one of the world's leading authorities on sailing, powerboating, and motor cruising. The RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track course offers an accelerated pathway for sailors to obtain their internationally recognized RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence in just 17 weeks, rather than the traditional route that can take up to two years. This intensive training program covers all the essential skills and knowledge needed to become a competent yacht skipper, preparing students for a career in the sailing industry or simply enhancing their sailing capabilities. The course includes theoretical classroom instruction, practical hands-on experience, and offshore passages to test students' skills in real-world conditions.
The Benefits of Completing a Fast Track Program
The RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track program offers an efficient way for sailors to obtain their Yachtmaster certification without sacrificing quality or cutting corners. By condensing the training into a shorter timeframe, students can save time and money while still receiving top-notch instruction from experienced professionals. Additionally, completing the program allows sailors to jumpstart their careers or sailing adventures, as the Yachtmaster certificate is widely recognized and respected in the sailing industry worldwide.
Course Overview
The RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track course is an intensive, immersive program crafted to transform beginners into competent sailors. Over 17 action-packed weeks, you'll:
- Master Core Skills: Gain proficiency in navigation, seamanship, and meteorology through hands-on practice and expert instruction.
- Live Aboard: Experience life at sea with extended live-aboard training, honing your ability to handle real-world sailing scenarios.
- RYA Certifications: Earn essential RYA certifications, including Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper, and the prestigious Yachtmaster Offshore.
- Safety First: Learn vital safety procedures and first aid, ensuring you're prepared for any situation on the water.
Programme Structure
The RYA Yachtmaster Fast Track programme is meticulously divided into three modules, each designed to progressively elevate your sailing skills.
Module 1: Day Skipper Level
In this initial module, you'll develop foundational skills and knowledge necessary for safe navigation and sailing. Through practical exercises and classroom learning, you'll become proficient in essential seamanship techniques, preparing you to skipper a small yacht up to 24m LOA in familiar waters, during daylight. This module also includes the Day Skipper theory course, which covers topics such as chart work, meteorology, and collision regulations.
Certificates Earned
At the end of this module, students will have the following certificates:
- RYA Competent Crew: A qualification that demonstrates basic sailing skills and an understanding of how to assist under the guidance of a skipper.
- RYA Day Skipper Shorebased: This certification covers the theoretical aspects of becoming a confident skipper, including navigation, meteorology, and safety procedures.
- RYA Day Skipper Practical: A practical assessment that shows students can command a small yacht safely and effectively, in familiar waters, during daylight.
- RYA VHF: This qualification equips students with the skills to operate maritime VHF radio equipment, crucial for communication while at sea.
- RYA Diesel Engine: Understanding the fundamentals of diesel engine maintenance and troubleshooting is essential for any sailor, and this certificate confirms that knowledge.
- RYA Level 2 Powerboat: This certification allows students to safely operate powerboats, expanding their skills and versatility on the water.
Importance of RYA Level 2 Powerboat Certificate
It is essential for students to understand the significance of the RYA Level 2 Powerboat certificate. Many companies in the maritime industry require this credential due to the widespread use of dinghies for various operations. Having this qualification not only enhances your skills in safely operating powerboats but also significantly boosts your employability in a competitive job market. Employers often look for candidates who possess a well-rounded set of qualifications, and the RYA Level 2 Powerboat certificate is highly regarded as a foundational requirement for roles that involve navigating smaller vessels.
Module 2: Coastal Skipper Level
Building on the skills acquired in the first module, the second module advances your navigation abilities and seamanship techniques to the Coastal Skipper level. You will engage in longer passages, honing your decision-making skills and gaining confidence in managing a yacht in a range of conditions.
Certificates Earned
At the end of this module, students will have the following certificates:
- RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Shorebased: This qualification signifies a comprehensive understanding of advanced navigation and seamanship, preparing students for the responsibilities of a Coastal Skipper.
- RYA Coastal Skipper: This practical assessment confirms that students possess the skills and knowledge to command a sailing vessel safely and effectively in coastal waters.
- RYA Radar: This certification equips students with the knowledge necessary to operate radar equipment, enhancing situational awareness and safety while navigating, as well as using radar for pilotage.
Module 3: RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
The final module culminates in reaching the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore level, where you'll integrate all your learning and experiences. This module emphasizes comprehensive passage planning, advanced navigation, and leadership skills, ensuring you're fully equipped to take on the challenges of offshore sailing.
Certificates Earned
At the end of this module, students will have the following certificates:
- RYA Yachtmaster Offshore with Commercial Endorsement: This qualification demonstrates a high level of competence in sailing and navigation, allowing graduates to operate commercially. It signifies that students are not only skilled sailors but also understand the legal and safety responsibilities involved in carrying passengers at sea.
Calendar 2024 / 2025
The course will run from November 2024 to March 2025
Module 1 - RYA Day Skipper | ||
4 - 8 November | RYA Competent Crew | 100 miles |
11 - 15 November | RYA Day Skipper Theory | |
16 November (Saturday) | RYA VHF | |
18 - 22 November | RYA Day Skipper Practical | 100 miles |
26 - 27 November | RYA Level 2 Powerboat | |
30 November (Saturday) | RYA Diesel Engine | |
2 - 6 December | Skippering Experience #1 | 400 miles |
9 - 15 December | Week Off | |
Module 2 - RYA Coastal Skipper | ||
16 - 20 December | RYA Coastal Skipper / Yachtmaster Offshore Theory | |
6 - 10 January | RYA Coastal Skipper Practical | 150 miles |
13 - 17 January | Skippering Experience #2 | 400 miles |
18 - 19 January (Sat - Sun) | Meteorology | |
20 - 24 January | Skippering Experience #3 | 150 miles |
25 January (Saturday) | RYA Radar | |
27 - 31 January | Skippering Experience #4 | 150 miles |
1 February (Saturday) | RYA First Aid | |
6 - 7 February (Thu - Fri) | RYA Yachtmaster Coastal | |
Module 3 - RYA Yachtmaster Offshore | ||
10 - 14 February | Skippering Experience #5 | 300 miles |
17 - 21 February | Skippering Experience #6 | 300 miles |
24 - 28 February | Skippering Experience #7 | 300 miles |
3 - 7 March | Yachtmaster Prep#1 | 100 miles |
9 - 12 March (Sun - Wed) | Yachtmaster Prep#2 | 100 miles |
13 - 14 March (Thu - Fri) | RYA Yachtmaster Exam | |
Accommodation Options
For students not residing in the Lisbon area, we offer the opportunity to stay on our sailing vessel, a RM 1350, throughout the 17 weeks of the course. This option provides a unique experience of living aboard while immersing yourself in the sailing environment. Please note that there will be an additional fee for accommodation on the vessel, which allow you to study and ensures you have a comfortable and convenient space during your training.
Career Opportunities after Completion
Upon successfully completing the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore course, students can explore various career paths in the maritime industry. Graduates often find positions as yacht captains, sailing instructors, or maritime guides, where they can apply their advanced navigation and leadership skills. Additionally, many pursue opportunities in commercial shipping, serving as crew members on vessels engaged in passenger transport. 
Internship Opportunities - West Coast Lisbon Sailing Centre
We are pleased to offer students the chance to take part in an internship at our school following the completion of their course. This hands-on experience allows graduates to further hone their skills in a practical setting, working alongside seasoned professionals. Excelling in the internship could also lead to potential employment opportunities within our institution, enriching your career within the sailing community even further.
We look forward to welcoming you on board this great adventure!
