Course content

This course is in two parts and either (or both) may be taken. The theory element includes: Astro-navigation, ocean meteorology and ocean passage planning. The practical element includes a 600 mile passage that complies with the requirements of the MCA Yachtmaster Ocean exam.

Pre-course experience

Yachtmaster MCA is required prior to taking the Yachtmaster Ocean exam.

Assumed knowledge

Navigation to the standard of Yachtmaster Theory, and experience to the level of Coastal Skipper.

Ability after course

Skipper a suitably equipped yacht on an ocean passage.

Suggested itinerary

10:00 - This passage may start from other locations than Tenerife – contact us for more details.

Hanse 400e
Prima 38
Sun Odyssey 39i
Sun Odyssey 45 DS
Nauticat 521

Notes: All our boats are commercially registered in Spain and are therefore fully insured according to Spanish law.  They also meet both Spanish, and the RYA’s safety standards.

As usual with Club Sail the following is included:

• A client instructor ratio of 4:1 for the theory, and 5:1 for the ocean passage;
  
• For courses starting in Tenerife transfers from and to Tenerife South airport are included between
• 10:00 and 19:00 on the Friday – no additional costs or waiting around for a taxi;
  
• Tuition from an experienced Instructor – we do not use instructors who have just qualified;
  
• Light weight waterproofs – just in case;
  
• Food and drink on board;
  
• All evening meals while at sea;
  
• All mooring fees, diesel and gas – no hidden extras.

Notes: We do not include: flights, travel insurance or evening meals ashore.

Must bring your own:

Sun protection – Sun glasses, sun hat and non oily sun cream (without carotene) are a definite must!

Music / DVD – there is a CD on the boat (and a DVD player on Club Class boats), so please bring with you a CD / DVD or 2.

Mobile phone charging – There is a 12v “cigarette” style socket on board the yacht which is live even when sailing, and a 240v socket (Spanish type) for when connected to shore power.

Medication – If you are taking any medication please advise your Instructor on commencement of the course.

Health care – Health care in the Canary Islands is good, but it is a good idea to collect the EHIC form from your local post office or online at www.ehic.org.uk.

Seasickness - It is advisable to bring with you a seasickness remedy if you have suffered in the past.  There is a local chemist in the town of Las Galletas – ask your Instructor where it is at the Friday night drink.

Notes: For the ocean passage a pillow and a towel are provided. We suggest that you bring a sleeping bag with you as it is better for ocean passages. Please make sure that you let us know if you suffer from allergies as we provide feather pillows as standard.

Recommended clothes

The climate in the Canaries is temperate.  You are recommended to bring with you shorts and t-shirts, a jumper/cardigan, long jeans/trousers and jumper for the odd cooler evening in the winter months, shoes with non-marking bottoms for use on the boat, swimwear and something for dinners ashore.  As the boat has limited storage space a sailing bag / holdall is the most suitable luggage.

Following extensive feedback from our clients we have introduced some other options on our larger Club Class yachts according to which option you book: