RYA Professional Practices and Responsibilities

Programme

Each year, approximately 4,500 individuals request the "Commercial Endorsement" to use their RYA/MCA qualifications to work professionally as skippers or crew.

RYA/MCA certifications are among the most internationally recognised for professional maritime work.

Roles include, but are not limited to:

• Skipper or transport crew

• RYA instructors (sailing and/or power)

• Charter skippers or crew

• Mega-yacht crew

• Deckhands

• Work-boat skippers

• RIB drivers

• Corporate skippers

Regardless of your role onboard, once you work at sea, you are considered a professional mariner. The laws governing a cruise ship captain are not very different from those you must follow as a professional skipper. You always have a "duty of care" towards your crew, passengers, and other navigators, and you will be held accountable if something goes wrong.

The course covers the legal framework required to become a commercial operator, regardless of vessel type. While specific operational issues (sailing, power, RIBs, workboats…) are addressed, the focus is on "duty of care," providing fundamental principles and guidance for skippers managing a commercial operation.

The course is divided into 4 sections:

• Commercial Environment – demonstrates how a skipper operates within the commercial maritime sector;

• People – explains the importance of crew safety, maintaining skills, and safe vessel management.

• Vessel – discusses necessary onboard safety equipment and its maintenance. Also covers risk control measures and operational procedures.

• Scenarios – ensures your vessel is suitable and legally compliant for commercial operation, covering environmental responsibilities, voyage planning, and navigation control, based on simulated scenarios.

After completing these modules, an online test is taken, and upon passing, you immediately receive your certificate (issued and available for online printing).

Your learning package includes:

• Online learning resources (not available for tablets);

• Email support for questions and guidance;

• In-person support if you visit our facilities;

• Certificate (available for immediate printing upon passing the online exam).

Price