Set and Drift

Red to port, green to starboard—and what about cardinals, junctions and sector lights? This plain-English UK guide to IALA Region A turns theory into calm, tidy pilotage, with quick-reference downloads for lights and sound signals.

Start right, save time. New to yachts, do RYA Competent Crew. Already crew with ease and want to lead, take Day Skipper Theory, then the Practical week. This guide shows who fits each path, the skills you need, common myths, and clear next steps.

Day Skipper theory is not about chasing a pass mark. It’s about proving you understand the method. This guide shows you how to stay calm online, what to revise for the two papers, and the small mistakes that cost marks. Biggest one: heights use the nearest port, streams use the port named at the top of the atlas or tidal diamond page, often Victoria. Plus revision downloads and buoyage flashcards.

What’s actually in Day Skipper Theory? Charts, tides, COLREGs, weather, APEM—and how it all clicks together. Plain-English walkthrough + ready-to-use downloads.