Day skipper theory syllabus
A comprehensive introduction to chart work, navigation, meteorology and the basics of seamanship for Competent Crew. The assumed level of knowledge before starting this course is nil.
Nautical terms
Parts of the boat and hull.
General nautical terminology.
Ropework
Knowledge of the properties of synthetic ropes in common use.
Anchorwork
Characteristics of different types of anchor.
Considerations to be taken into account when anchoring.
Safety
Knowledge of the safety equipment to be carried, its stowage and use.
Fire precautions and fire fighting.
Use of personal safety equipment, harnesses and lifejackets.
Ability to send a distress signal via VHF radiotelephone.
Basic knowledge of rescue procedures including helicopter rescue.
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
Steering and sailing rules (5, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 12 - 19).
General rules (all other rules).
Definition of position, course and speed
Lattitude and longitude.
Knowledge of standard navigation terms.
True bearing and course.
The knot.
Navigation charts and publications
Information shown on charts, chart symbols and representations of direction and distance.
Navigation publications in common use.
Chart correction.
Navigation drawing instruments
Use of parallel rulers, dividers and proprietary plotting instruments.
Compass
Application of variation.
Awareness of deviation and it's causes.
Use of hand-bearing compass.
Chartwork
Dead reckoning and estimated position including an awareness of leeway.
Techniques of visual fixing.
Satellite-derived positions.
Use of waypoints to fix position.
Course to steer.
Tides and tidal streams
Tide definitions, levels and datum.
Tide tables.
Use of Admiralty method of determining tidal height at standard port and awareness of corrections for secondary ports.
Use of tidal diamonds and tidal stream atlases for chartwork.
Visual aids to navigation
Lighthouses and beacons, light characteristics.
Meteorology
Sources of broadcast meteorological information.
Knowledge of terms used in shipping forecasts, including the Beaufort scale, and their significance to small craft.
Basic knowledge of highs, lows and fronts.
Passage planning
Preparation of navigational plan for short coastal passages.
Meteorological considerations in planning short coastal passages.
Use of waypoints on passage.
Importance of confirmation of position by an independent source.
Keeping a navigational record.
Navigation in restricted visibility
Precautions to be taken in, and limitations imposed by fog.
Pilotage
Use of transits, leading lines and clearing lines.
IALA system of bouyage in Region A.
Use of sailing directions.
Pilotage plans and harbour entry
Marine Environment
Responsibility for minimising pollution and protecting the marine environment.
You will be required to sit two written examinations at the end of the course. Written tests are used throughout the course to ensure understanding.