Course Overview
The RYA Motor Cruising Helmsman course builds confidence around a motor cruiser of the type used for training. It is especially useful for new owners, regular crew and family members who want to contribute safely rather than relying entirely on one skipper.
The programme combines theory and practical work covering preparation, controls, close-quarters handling, berthing, safety, basic engine awareness, securing to a buoy and person-overboard recovery.
No fixed dates are offered yet. Delivery is enquiry-led while the school validates demand and confirms a suitable motor cruiser, instructor and RYA delivery arrangements.
Who Is This Course For?
New motor-cruiser owners, partners and family members, regular crew and anyone who wants a structured introduction to larger powered craft.
Prerequisites
- No previous motor-cruising experience required
- Minimum age 12
- Course requires at least two confirmed students to run
Typical Itinerary
Theory and practical exercises are integrated across both days and adapted to the craft and candidate progress.
- Day 1: preparation, systems, controls, basic handling and coming alongside
- Day 2: berthing consolidation, buoy work, person-overboard recovery and safety scenarios
What Is Included
Included
- Two days of practical and theory instruction
- Use of the nominated motor cruiser and safety equipment
- Course material and completion certificate when the required standard is achieved
Not included
- Overnight accommodation unless agreed in advance and subject to availability
- Flights, transfers, insurance and personal expenses
- Meals and personal provisions
Optional extras
- Airport pickup€30 per trip
Bookable extras can be selected on the booking page.
Delivery dates and final inclusions are confirmed before payment. External examination or certification fees remain separate unless your written quote explicitly includes them.
Course Syllabus
- Boat preparation and safety
- Types of motor cruiser, engines and drives
- Engine operation and basic maintenance
- Close-quarters boat handling and helmsmanship
- Berthing alongside and securing to a buoy
- Person-overboard recovery
- Safety, seamanship and rules of the road
What you will work toward
- Prepare a motor cruiser and carry out basic checks
- Helm safely in a defined operating area
- Come alongside and secure to a buoy
- Respond to a person-overboard situation
- Understand basic engines, drives, seamanship and collision rules
Register your interest
This is an enquiry-led demand-validation programme. We are collecting preferred dates and participant requirements while confirming the appropriate training craft, instructor and delivery arrangements in Phuket.
- No fixed course dates are published yet
- An enquiry does not reserve a place or create a payment obligation
- We will provide written confirmation of the dates, craft, instructor, price and certification arrangements before requesting payment
Any RYA course will only be delivered and certificated once the relevant recognition, equipment and staffing requirements are confirmed for that discipline.
Recommended to Bring
- RYA logbook and evidence of prerequisite sea time
- Relevant theory notes, charts and navigation tools
- Quick-drying clothing and non-marking footwear
- Sun protection, waterproof layer and soft luggage
Supporting Courses
Marine Radio VHF/SRC, RYA First Aid and the appropriate RYA shorebased navigation course support safe progression through the cruising scheme. We will identify any missing qualification when reviewing your enquiry.
Local Information
Flights and Arrival
Yacht Haven Marina is approximately 20–30 minutes by road from Phuket International Airport in normal traffic. Exact boarding, checkout and examination arrangements are confirmed in the written joining instructions.
Typical Weather
Phuket is warm throughout the year, but the monsoon seasons influence wind, rainfall and route planning. These are typical patterns rather than a forecast.
Mid Oct–Jan
24–31°C
Drier northeast-monsoon period with more sunshine and generally comfortable cruising conditions.
Feb–May
25–33°C
Hot, mostly dry weather. Winds can become lighter and more variable as the season progresses.
July–Aug
24–32°C
Southwest-monsoon sailing with tropical showers, fresher winds and more swell on exposed routes.
Sep–Mid Oct
24–31°C
Typically the wettest and most changeable period, with squalls and routes adjusted to conditions.
Your Next RYA Step
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this course have fixed starting dates?
No. We are collecting preferred dates and require at least two confirmed students. The motor cruiser, instructor and delivery arrangements are confirmed in writing before payment.
Is accommodation included?
No. Onboard accommodation may occasionally be available if arranged in advance, but it is subject to the selected vessel and written confirmation.