The RYA Yachtmaster is a highly respected qualification for experienced leisure sailors, split into three levels: Coastal, Offshore, and Ocean. All levels are externally examined, unlike the Day Skipper course.

---

⛵ 1. Yachtmaster Coastal

✔ Skippering Range – Up to 20 nautical miles from a safe haven.

✔ Vessel Size – Up to 24 metres LOA.

✔ Experience Required Before Exam – Minimum 30 days at sea, 800 miles logged (half in tidal waters), 12 night hours, at least 2 days as skipper. If you already hold a Coastal Skipper certificate, requirements reduce to 20 days, 400 miles, and 12 night hours.

---

🌊 2. Yachtmaster Offshore

✔ Skippering Range – Up to 150 nautical miles from a safe haven.

✔ Vessel Size – Up to 24 metres LOA.

✔ Experience Required Before Exam – Minimum 50 days at sea, 2,500 miles logged (half in tidal waters), at least 5 passages over 60 miles (rhumb line) with at least 2 as skipper, 5 days as skipper, includes two overnight passages, all seatime within 10 years of exam.

---

🛠 3. Common Requirement

✔ GMDSS Short Range Radio Certificate – Required for both Coastal and Offshore Yachtmaster exams.

---

📍 Summary

In short, Yachtmaster Coastal is designed for nearshore sailing, while Yachtmaster Offshore qualifies you for longer passages further from safe havens—a significant step up in experience and responsibility.