The RYA, Royal Yachting Association, is the English and worldwide standard for international recognition. The Dutch Offshore Sailing Academy / Zeezeilers is a RYA Training Centre based in the Netherlands.
Qualification as a Yachtmaster™ Offshore is the ultimate aim of many skippers, both professional and recreational. We offer several RYA courses for different levels of experience.
In the spring of 2025 we offer a Full Fasttrack Program "From Zero to Hero"! More information can be found here: https://www.zeezeilers.nl/cursusaanbod/fast-track-to-rya-yachtmaster-offshore
Curious about where you are in the scheme? Please contact us for advise.
Competent Crew Course (5 days practical course)
This course is for beginners who would like to become active crew members rather than just passengers. Dates and Prices >
Additionally you can choose for a jump start in navigation with the RYA's Essential Navigation online. More information >
Day Skipper Course (5 days practical course)
A course for aspiring skippers with some yachting experience and basic navigation and sailing skills. Dates and Prices >
We strongly advise to do a Day Skipper online theory course beforehand. More information >
Qualifying Miles (6 - 14 days sailing)
Routinate your skills by building miles. Gain more experience before the next step. Dates and Prices >
Coastal Skipper Course (5 days practical course)
Advanced skippering techniques for yachtsmen and women with considerable knowledge of sailing and navigation. Dates and Prices >
You must have your theory up to speed on a Coastal Skipper / YM Offshore level beforehand. More information >
Qualifying Miles (30 - 40 days sailing)
Milesbuilders and training challenging passages and pilotage to apply knowledge.Dates and Prices >
In these variety of trips are at least 5 x 60 qualifying miles. For these we advise to obtain a Coastal Skipper certificate first.
RYA VHF Short Range Certificate (online + practical assessment) Qualification required to operate marine VHF radio equipment. More information >
RYA First Aid (1 day) Highly recommended for all sailors and mandatory for aspiring Yachtmasters. More information >
Yachtmaster Offshore Prep & Exam (5 + 2 days)
Preparation Course prior to the exam. The final exam takes 2 days. Dates and Prices >
More information on the Yachtmaster Offshore can be found here: https://zeezeilers.nl/rya-yachtmaster-offshore