If living on board, cruising the coast or venturing further offshore appeals, why not give motor cruising a go? 

Motor cruisers have accommodation and cooking facilities on board, offering a degree of comfort while afloat. How adventurous you are is up to you! 

Whether you are a beginner wanting to get to grips with your first boat, or a more experienced skipper simply wanting to increase your knowledge and confidence, there's an RYA course for you.

Our motor cruising courses can also help you progress to the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide and can be commercially endorsed for professional skippers and crew. 

Whatever your goal, find out more about our motor cruising courses below.   

 

Find a course
Motor Boating
Practical courses

Our practical on-the-water courses build confidence, teaching you everything from basic terminology and safety tips to how to skipper a motor cruiser and manage its crew.

 

Start Motor Cruising

This is an entry level course and can be run in conjunction with higher level courses for mixed ability groups.

 
Helmsman

A two-day course covering basic boat handling, engine checks and safety.

 
Day Skipper Motor

Take charge on short passages under instruction, with help and advice from your instructor.

 
Coastal Skipper Motor

For the more ambitious skipper to improve their skills, take charge and learn to make full use of the boat on longer, more complex passages.

 
Courses ashore

Our navigation and other specialist short courses complement the motor cruising practical courses and will take your knowledge and confidence to the next level.

 

Essential Navigation and Seamanship

A basic introduction to navigation for new skippers, crew or anyone interested in getting out on the water.

 
Day Skipper Theory

A more comprehensive course recommended for inexperienced skippers and anyone thinking of doing the Day Skipper practical course.

 
Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory

Take your theory knowledge to the standard required for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore practical exams.

 
Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, using a sextant, ocean passage planning, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigation aids.

 
Marine Radio (SRC)

Get qualified to use a handheld or fixed marine VHF radio with our course and exam.

 
More courses ashore...

From first aid to diesel engine, there are a number of related classroom and online courses you may find useful as you develop your knowledge.

 
RYA Yachtmaster® exams

An RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence is the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving your experience and competence.

RYA Yachtmaster Coastal

You are capable of coastal passages

 
RYA Yachtmaster Offshore

You are competent to undertake passages up to 150 miles offshore

 
RYA Yachtmaster Ocean

You have the knowledge and experience to sail worldwide

 
Find a training centre
RYA Day Skipper Handbook cover - illustrations of motor cruiser

With more than 100 different titles to choose from, there’s an RYA book, eBook or audiobook for every age, interest and ability. Visit our webshop for course books and a range of supporting titles.

Instructor and young boy looking at charts on motor cruiser

Motor cruising can be a great way for the whole family to get out on the water. Check our course descriptions for minimum age recommendations.

Woman on flybridge helming motoryacht

Find out more about commercial endorsements, professional qualifications and what it takes to work on the water.

Motor cruiser in marina overseas. Woman stood on bow wearing shorts, white t-shirt and a lifejacket

If you want to cruise outside of the UK you are likely to need an ICC. RYA course completion certificates can be used as evidence of your competence.