We will be running a one day RYA First AId course in Dorset in the Weymouth & Portland area on 17th December 2025 starting at 0900. The cost of the course will be £75 + VAT per person.
The RYA First Aid Course is a one-day, classroom-based course specifically developed for people using small craft and designed to teach the essential first aid procedures needed in a marine environment. It is MCA (Maritime and Coastguard Agency) approved and a prerequisite for many RYA instructor qualifications and Yachtmaster practical exams.
Key Details
- Duration: 1 day (typically 8 hours of tuition).
- Format: Classroom-based, often including practical scenarios in a confined space setting to simulate a boat environment.
- Prerequisites: No prior experience is required, and there is no minimum age (though it is recommended that participants are physically able to perform practical aspects like CPR).
- Certificate Validity: The RYA First Aid certificate is valid for three years.
- Dual Certification: Many providers offer the option to receive dual certification, such as the HSE Emergency First Aid at Work qualification, as the syllabus aligns with HSE recommendations.
Syllabus & Topics Covered
The course covers standard first aid subjects but with a particular emphasis on situations likely to be encountered at sea or in remote locations. Topics include:
- Immediate Actions: Assessing an emergency situation and prioritizing actions.
- Resuscitation (CPR): Including specific protocols for drowning victims, and the use of a defibrillator (AED).
- Recovery Position: Modifying the recovery position for use in a confined space.
- Cold Shock & Hypothermia: Understanding and treating hypothermia and cold shock from immersion and/or exposure.
- Bleeding: Management of external and catastrophic bleeding using direct pressure, dressings, and tourniquets.
- Other Illnesses/Injuries: Treatment for shock, seasickness and dehydration, head injuries, burns, fractures, and heart attacks.
- Emergency Procedures: How to obtain medical advice or assistance via VHF radio and the procedures for helicopter rescue (Medevac).
- First Aid Kits: The contents and use of Category C first aid kits for commercial vessels.
Who is it for?
The course is designed for a wide range of individuals:
- Recreational Boaters: Anyone who goes afloat on inland waters, rivers, estuaries, or on cross-channel passages.
- RYA Instructors: A valid certificate is a mandatory requirement for all RYA instructors across various disciplines.
- Commercial Skippers & Crew: It satisfies the requirements for professional skippers of small commercial vessels working up to 60 miles from a safe haven.
- Yachtmaster Candidates: The certificate is a prerequisite for the Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.
- Offshore Racers: It fulfills the first aid training requirements for offshore racing events subject to World Sailing’s regulations.
