Books and Resources

The courses we run often require some knowledge before attending them, and the RYA has recommended reading for each course. In addition there is a wealth of additional information and resources for both the recreational and commercial boat user, whether you are a yachtsman, powerboater, motor cruiser, fisherman, or just want to expand your knowledge. If you are unsure please feel free to contact us by email for advice.

There are specific resources here for Powerboating, Navigation, VHF/SRC Marine Radio, Charts and Almanacs, and other useful books.

There are many other books and resources available in the RYA Online shop, so if you can't find what you are looking for here then click this link to see resources in the RYA Dinghy Sailing Scheme, RYA Windsurf Scheme, RYA Yachtmaster Scheme as well as Instructor Resources.

Powerboat books

RYA Start Powerboating

This is the official course book for Levels 1 and 2 of the RYA National Powerboat Scheme (formally Powerboat Practical Course Notes). It goes through everything you need to know as a novice powerboater, from basics such as the boat and the equipment you need, through to berthing and man overboard techniques.

RYA Powerboat Handbook

This edition of the RYA Powerboat Handbook is a must if you are looking to progress to the intermediate levels of the RYA Powerboat Scheme. It has been updated with new information on electronic navigation and handling at speed, and will help you to acquire the knowledge and confidence to get the most from your time on the water.

RYA Powerboat Scheme Syllabus and Logbook

This new edition of the RYA Powerboat Scheme Syllabus and Logbook details the structure and content of all courses from beginner to advanced within the RYA Powerboat Scheme. There is also a logbook section which enables you to keep a record of your personal powerboating achievements plus information relating to all relevant shorebased courses.

Advanced Powerboat Handbook

This handbook is the official companion to the RYA Powerboat Advanced course, but it is also equally relevant to those who are simply keen to develop and consolidate their knowledge to help improve their theoretical and practical skills. The book focuses on the advanced aspects of powerboating and demystifies the more complicated techniques for operating an open vessel by day and night.

An Introduction to Navigation

The book guides the reader through the basic steps of navigation so that they can learn to navigate successfully. It supports many of the RYA courses, including the RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course.

RYA Yachtmaster Shorebased Notes

This new edition of the RYA Yachmaster Shorebased Notes covers the theoretical knowledge base required before attending the RYA Advanced Powerboat course. It includes enhanced sections on weather, navigation, pilotage, voyage planning and special situations when afloat alongside notes on all aspects of the syllabus.

RYA Weather Handbook

This edition of the RYA Weather Handbook covers the Northern and Southern hemispheres, and is full of practical and useful information, on aspects such as theory, weather charts, clouds, predicting the wind, and the technology used in sourcing meteorological information.

RYA Power Schemes Instructor Handbook

This book includes information on the whole RYA Power Scheme, the instructing qualifications available and the methods required to teach each of the courses.

Navigation books

RYA Yachtmaster Syllabus and Logbook

This book provides detailed information about the structure and content of the practical and shorebased courses for both sail and motor cruising with the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme. It also provides pages for you to log your progress and keep your certificates.

RYA Navigation Handbook

The complete guide to navigation for anyone taking to the water. It provides the reader with a sound understanding of the principles of navigation as well as providing insight into the ways in which electronic navigation can be used to best effect.

RYA Navigation Exercises

Exercises to accompany all RYA Training courses. All vital aspects of seamanship are included,from estimated positions and tide tables to meteorology and maydays. Through full colour illustrations, this book follows the newly revised Yachmaster syllabus and includes recent developments in electronic chart plotting and GPS.

RYA International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea

This edition provides a clear and authoritative explanation of each regulation, helping any seafarer understand their responsibilities. Chapters include Assessing the risk, Who Gives Way, Restricted Visibility, Lights and Shapes, Sound and Light Signals, and guides the reader through the regulations.

RYA Passage Planning

This book will help you make passage planning routine, allowing you to work through some examples of different passages, allowing you to prepare thoroughly before setting off.

Symbols and Abbreviations (5011)

Essential for all mariners using Admiralty charts, this publication illustrates Symbols and Abbreviations in full colour, along with full explanations.

RYA Astro Navigation Handbook

This handbook is ideal for anyone new to celestial navigation, or wanting to update their Astro skills. It is the course book for anyone taking an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory course.

RYA Commercial Regulations - Small vessels

This book covers the responsibilities to the vessel, those around them and the environment while operating commercially. It is designed to accompany the RYA Professional Practices and Responsibilities course.

 

VHF/SRC books

RYA VHF Radio (incl. GMDSS)

The RYA's official title to supprt the RYA VHF Operators Short Range Certificate examination

VHF DSC Tutorial and Simulator

The tutorial and simulator are effective aids to learning the use of your VHF equipment

Local Charts and Almanacs

Admiralty Leisure Folio Chart

West Coast of Scotland (SCF5611). Mull of Kintyre to Point of Ardnamurchan.

Scotland West Coast chart.

Point of Ardnamurchan to Shiant Islands

Reeds Skippers Handbook

Includes latest maritime regulations and electronic techniques, and provides answers to most of the navigation problems that are likely to arise during a coastal passage

Basic Navigation Pack

The essential navigation instruments required for basic navigation. The set includes Dividers, Weeme protractor, Pencil and Pencil sharpener.

Other useful books

RYA Diesel Engine Handbook

Essential reading for all diesel engine boat owners, and the accompanying book for the one-day RYA Diesel Engine course.

RYA Boat Maintenance Handbook

The ideal maintenance and repair guide for all routine maintenance jobs on and off the water, both above and below decks, inside and outside the hull.

RYA An Introduction to Radar

Follows the syllabus of the RYA one-day Radar course and is ideal for anyone requiring a working knowledge of radar.

RYA Sea Survival Handbook

The official text for the RYA Sea Survival course and the RYA/ISAF Offshore Safety course. It highlights the importance of having the correct safety equipment and gives you the knowledge of how and when to use it.