What Happens on the Day Skipper Practical Course?
So, you’ve completed the theory and booked your Day Skipper Practical Course. But what’s it actually like to live, learn, and sail as skipper for the first time? Whether you’re feeling excited or a bit nervous, this guide walks you through what to expect from day one to your final sail.
⛵ Welcome Aboard: Your First Day
Your course usually begins at the marina, where you’ll meet your instructor and fellow crew members (usually a group of 3–5). After a quick round of introductions, you’ll get a safety briefing and a guided tour of your floating home for the week — a cruising yacht.
You’ll likely go for a short sail on the first day so the instructor can assess your starting point and help everyone settle in.
🧭 What You’ll Be Doing Each Day
The RYA Day Skipper Practical is a hands-on course designed to give you real-world skippering experience. Each day you’ll rotate through crew roles, taking turns as skipper to plan passages, navigate, manage sail trim, and make safety decisions.
📒 Continuous Learning Onboard
This isn’t a classroom — you’ll be learning by doing. Your instructor will coach you through each activity, helping you apply the skills from your Day Skipper Theory course in real-life scenarios. Mistakes are part of the learning process — what matters is your ability to take charge safely and work with your crew.
🧑✈️ Is There a Test?
There’s no final exam. Instead, the course is continuously assessed. Your instructor will evaluate your skippering ability throughout the week, including your leadership, planning, and boat handling. If you meet the standard, you’ll earn your RYA Day Skipper Practical certificate.
🧳 What to Pack for Your Practical Course
Space is tight on a yacht, so pack light and bring the essentials:
- Waterproofs and non-slip deck shoes
- Warm layers and a woolly hat
- Sleeping bag and pillow
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Headtorch (ideally with a red light setting)
- RYA logbook and theory course certificate
⚓ The Start of Your Skippering Journey
Your Day Skipper Practical Course is more than a training week — it’s your first taste of real responsibility at sea. You’ll leave with the skills and confidence to skipper a yacht in familiar waters, along with a few sea stories and (probably) some new friends.
If you’re preparing for your course, explore our free downloads and crib sheets to brush up before you step aboard.
Ready to book your Day Skipper Practical Course? Check out our RYA-approved online theory and practical training options.
