RYA One-Day First Aid Course – MCA-approved emergency training for boaters, skippers, and instructors

RYA Certified Training Courses

RYA One Day First Aid Classroom Course

Q: Is this course MCA approved and accepted for RYA qualifications?

Yes. It’s MCA approved and satisfies first-aid requirements for Coastal Skipper, Yachtmaster and Advanced Powerboat Certificates of Competence, and for many commercial endorsements.

Q: Do I need prior first-aid experience?

No. The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as those needing a boating-specific refresher.

Q: How long does the certificate last?

The RYA First Aid certificate is typically valid for 3 years. After that, a refresher is recommended.

Q: What’s different about this versus a standard first-aid course?

Content is tailored to the marine environment: drowning protocol, cold shock/hypothermia, seasickness/dehydration, calling for help by VHF, and coordinating with rescue services.

Q: Is there a written exam?

Assessment is through practical participation and scenarios throughout the day rather than a formal written test.

Q: What will I be able to do by the end?

Perform CPR (including drowning protocol), place a casualty in the recovery position, manage bleeding, fractures and burns, recognise/treat cold shock and hypothermia, handle seasickness and dehydration, and request medical assistance.

Q: Where is the course held and how long is it?

A one-day classroom course (typically 6–8 hours) at Hamble Point Marina, Southampton (SO31 4NB).

Q: What should I bring/wear?

Comfortable clothing suitable for practical scenarios, any regular medication, snacks/drinks, and a photo ID if you have one.

Q: Is this accepted for commercial endorsements?

Yes—this course is commonly accepted for RYA commercial endorsements. If your employer/flag state has additional requirements, bring those details when booking.

Q: Is it suitable for inland, coastal and offshore boating?

Yes. The course is relevant for inland waters, rivers, estuaries and cross-Channel/coastal passages.

From £99.00

Learn essential first aid skills for managing medical emergencies on the water.

The RYA One Day First Aid Classroom Course is designed for anyone who spends time afloat and wants the confidence to respond effectively in an emergency.

Delivered in a classroom environment, this course focuses on practical, scenario-based training tailored to boating and marine conditions.

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Course Overview & What You’ll Learn

This course focuses on first aid situations commonly encountered on the water, where access to immediate medical assistance may be limited.

Through instructor-led teaching and practical demonstrations, you’ll develop the skills needed to respond confidently in real-life situations.

You’ll learn how to:

Perform CPR, including drowning protocol
Use the recovery position in confined spaces
Recognise and treat cold shock and hypothermia
Manage seasickness and dehydration
Treat bleeding, fractures, burns and onboard injuries
Call for help using VHF and understand helicopter rescue procedures
Manage incidents until professional medical help arrives

Who Is This Course For?

This course is suitable for anyone involved in boating, whether recreational or professional.

Ideal for:

Skippers and crew members
Motorboat and sailing boaters
RYA instructors and trainees
Commercial operators and crew
Anyone progressing towards higher RYA qualifications

Experience Required & Entry Requirements

No previous first aid or boating experience is required.

This course is suitable for beginners and experienced boaters, providing practical and relevant training for real-world situations.

Course Duration, Price & Certification

This is a one-day classroom-based first aid course, focused on practical decision-making and emergency response in a marine environment.

Course details:

Duration: 1 day (approximately 6–8 hours)
Price: From £99.00
Format: Classroom-based tuition
Certification: RYA One Day First Aid Certificate (MCA approved)

On successful completion, you’ll receive an RYA First Aid certificate recognised for use across a wide range of RYA qualifications.

This certificate satisfies the first aid requirements for:

Coastal Skipper
Yachtmaster
Advanced Powerboat
Certain commercial endorsements

Course Locations & Training Areas

This course is delivered at:

Saltmakers House, Hamble Point Marina, SO31 4NB
Marchwood Yacht Club, Maritime Avenue, Marchwood, Southampton, SO40 4AD

Both locations offer convenient access, on-site facilities and parking.

FAQs

Is this course MCA approved and accepted for RYA qualifications?

Do I need prior first-aid experience?

How long does the certificate last?

What’s different about this versus a standard first-aid course?

Is there a written exam?

What will I be able to do by the end?

Where is the course held and how long is it?

What should I bring/wear?

Is this accepted for commercial endorsements?

Is it suitable for inland, coastal and offshore boating?

How much does it cost and what’s included?

How do I book or ask a question?

Customer Reviews

“Cloud Nine is a fantastic boat that handles the sea well-lots of power to get on the plane and kept going if you wanted it. My wife who is not the most confident boater said she wasn’t worried as the boat always felt planted to the water. Rob is a really great guy very laid back and gives you confidence going over the boat and its equipment to give you a great day out on the water.”

Star Google Rating – Trusted by Happy Customers

Martin Gordon

“Rob skippered us and our 35ft Sailboat from Portishead to Falmouth. We encountered weather and issues on the boat which without Rob’s leadership, skill and confidence would have caused us to turn back. On the 36 hour journey Rob was consistently professional and friendly, providing coaching and friendly pointers throughout. The entire journey felt like a very easy lesson and we will benefit for many years to come from Rob’s advice and the simple standards he set aboard. Can’t thank him enough and will definitely be in touch in future!.”

Ricky Velai

“Great School, great instructors, great boat, highly recommend taking course with these guys. Instructor Ramos was a great teacher”

Antony Clark

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