Weather Forecasting Terminology
This worksheet contains the terms used in the weather forecast and their definitions.
Weather (Meteorology)
Downloads for the Weather and Meteorology module in the RYA Day Skipper and Sailing Essentials courses.
These guides and reference tools will help you interpret synoptic charts, identify cloud types, and anticipate weather changes—critical skills for anyone planning a safe and enjoyable passage.
Weather Forecast Capture Sheet
This is a worksheet for capturing weather forecast information to help interpret and monitor the forecast for maritime purposes. The technique for capturing the forecast is taught in the Weather (Meteorology) module of the Sailing Essentials and Day Skipper Theory courses.
Weather Broadcasts and Maritime Safety Information
His Majesty’s Coastguard is responsible in the UK for broadcasting marine weather forecasts and Maritime Safety Information (MSI) on NAVTEX, VHF and MF and providing the Radio Medical Advice Link Call (MEDILINK) Service.
UK Inshore Waters Forecast
Heading out to sea? Make sure you know exactly which inshore sea area you’re sailing in — and which coastguard to call if you need assistance. This free crib sheet gives you a clear, easy-to-follow overview of the UK’s Inshore Waters Forecast sea areas, including…
Synoptic Chart
An example synoptic chart used in the How to read a Synoptic Chart in the Weather module of the Sailing Essentials & Day Skipper Theory courses.
Shipping Forecast Worksheet
This worksheet contains information regarding the UK shipping forecast used for the session Sources of Weather Forecast in the Weather module of the Day Skipper Theory Course.
Shipping Forecast Sea Areas
Here’s a handy crib sheet you can download that lists all 31 Shipping Forecast sea areas at a glance, complete with their names, locations and key details—perfect for mariners, weather enthusiasts or anyone who needs a quick reference when tuning into the forecast. Whether you’re…
Inshore Waters Forecast – Sea Areas
Inshore waters and strong wind forecast for coastal waters up to 12 miles offshore. Forecasts for UK inshore waters are issued four times a day and cover a period of 24 hours from 0000, 0600, 1200 and 1800 UTC. The coastal waters around the British…
Cloud & Weather Front Spotter
Understanding the relationship between clouds and weather fronts allows us to see a weather front as it develops and passes over us. This basic knowledge can help us determine what weather to expect in the short and medium term. Using this reference material, try cloud…
Beaufort Scale
Details of the wind strength and other expected conditions for each Beaufort scale 0 to 12. The Beaufort scale is taught in the Weather (Meteorology) module of the Sailing Essentials & Day Skipper theory courses.
Barometric Pressure Change Meanings
A list containing the common weather scenarios that can be interpreted from changes in air pressure. Knowing what the changes in barometric pressure indicate can help us forecast and monitor the weather.
