Independent Day Skipper theory preparation
Master thetheory of the sea
Comprehensive, self-paced preparation for Day Skipper theory. Navigate with confidence, backed by interactive charting tools, 65 complete lessons and step-by-step guidance.
- modules
- 12
- lessons
- 65
- hours of study
- ~29
- to start
- Free
Precision training for modern mariners
SkipperPrep combines traditional maritime knowledge with modern digital learning, so the theory sticks before you step aboard.
Structured Learning
Twelve modules guide you from complete beginner through a structured Day Skipper theory curriculum at your own pace, with each lesson building on the last.
Interactive Tools
Practise chartwork and tidal calculations in the browser with our interactive instruments, quizzes, flashcards and decision scenarios.
AI Navigator Tutor
Stuck on a tricky calculation? Our AI study tutor uses your current lesson and weak-topic context to give step-by-step guidance whenever you need it.
The syllabus
Structured progression through the core maritime disciplines, with clear starting points for complete beginners.
Seamanship
The language of the sea and the anatomy of a sailing yacht: hull, rig, sails, ropework, boat handling, anchoring and the engine checks every skipper performs.
2.8 hours · 6 lessons02NAVIGATIONChartwork
Reading nautical charts with confidence: position, direction, distance and depth, the compass, and the plotting techniques that underpin all navigation.
2.7 hours · 6 lessons03NAVIGATIONPosition Fixing
Where are we? Dead reckoning, estimated positions and visual fixes: the deduction skills that keep working when the electronics don't.
2.3 hours · 5 lessons04TIDESTides
Why the sea rises and falls, how to work out the height of tide anywhere and anytime, and how moving water affects your course over the ground.
2.8 hours · 6 lessons05NAVIGATIONCourse to Steer
The classic vector triangle: offsetting tidal stream and leeway so the course you steer produces the track you want over the ground.
1.8 hours · 4 lessons06PILOTAGEPilotage
Buoyage, lights and the close-quarters craft of taking a boat safely into and out of harbour with a plan you can follow under pressure.
2.4 hours · 5 lessons07NAVIGATIONElectronic Nav
GNSS, chart plotters, AIS and radar: using modern electronics well, understanding their limits, and integrating them with traditional methods.
2.2 hours · 5 lessons08METEOROLOGYWeather
Pressure systems, fronts, wind, fog and forecasts: reading the sky and the synoptic chart to make sound go/no-go decisions.
2.6 hours · 6 lessonsReady for the water, before the water
Learn the theory
Work through complete lessons with clear explanations, diagrams and worked examples written for people starting from zero.
Practise the skills
Reinforce every module with knowledge checks, flashcards, realistic scenarios and interactive navigation tools.
Prove your knowledge
Sit topic quizzes and full mock examinations, track your scores, and arrive at your course ready to sail.
Ready to take the helm?
Find your strongest and weakest areas in five questions, then use the result to choose what to study next.