A Yachtmaster certificate is a certificate of competence that proves the ability to handle either a sailing boat or motor boat in certain prescribed conditions. It is the pinnacle of yachting qualifications and is widely recognized throughout the world as a prestigious accomplishment. There are three different titles of Yachtmaster certificates: Coastal, Offshore, and Ocean.

• Yachtmaster Coastal Certificate of Competence: This certificate allows the holder to work on board British flagged vessels subject to the MCAs codes of practice for small commercial vessels up to 24 metres in length, operating in category 3, 4, 5 and 6 waters - that is up to 20 nautical miles from a safe haven.

• Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence: This certificate allows the holder to work as a Master on board vessels sailing under the British flag subject to the MCAs codes of practice for small commercial vessels of up to 200gt in category 1 to 6 waters - that is up to 150 miles from a safe haven, or Master Category 5 operating up to 200 nautical miles offshore, depending upon country. This certificate is the gateway to employment, and most employers ask for the Offshore or Ocean qualification.

• Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence: This certificate allows the holder to work as a Master on board British flagged vessels subject to the MCAs codes of practice for small commercial vessels of up to 200gt in all waters around the world with no legal restrictions on how far.

Unlike other qualifications in the cruising program, there is no formal training course to become a Yachtmaster. Instead, provided you have sufficient experience, certification, and seatime, you can put yourself forward for an exam to test your skills and knowledge. The Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore exams are practical tests afloat, and the Ocean is an oral exam.

With an RYA Yachtmaster Coastal, Offshore, or Ocean Certificate of Competence, you can start a career at sea. If you want to work commercially, youll need a commercial endorsement.