We are the official partner school for IYT licenses

 

Yachtmaster Offshore

The IYT Yachtmaster Offshore is an internationally recognized recreational certificate that authorizes the holder to skipper sailing or power yachts up to 24 meters in length, up to 150 nautical miles from the coast. This certificate also allows operation of sailing yachts with a sail area exceeding 80 square meters.

Important Note: The IYT Yachtmaster Offshore is suitable only for recreational use and cannot be converted into a professional (commercial) certificate.

The training consists of 5 days of theory (including the final exam) followed by one week of practical sailing in a tidal area, concluding with a practical exam. Due to the extensive material, it is nearly impossible to fully cover everything in this short time—candidates should thoroughly master the theoretical content through self-study before the course begins.

The in-person theory classes take place in our training rooms in Bremen. Over these 5 days, we comprehensively review all key topics, clarify any questions, and ensure solid preparation for the theoretical exam. Additionally, we conduct 2 hours of navigation exercises daily to avoid surprises in that subject.

The practical training occurs either on our school’s own yacht in Montenegro or on a charter yacht in the Netherlands. The practical exam is held on the final day. During the practical voyage, a minimum of 500 nautical miles must be logged.

On board, there will be a maximum of 4 trainees + skipper, providing ample time and space for hands-on learning and practice.

The theory and practical components do not need t

o be completed consecutively. Both exams must be passed within one year.

Prerequisites

• 50 days at sea on a yacht as an active crew member
• 3,000 nautical miles logged on a sailing or power yacht (at least 2,000 NM must be coastal voyages, not ocean crossings)
• 30 hours of night watch at sea as an active crew member (including 6 hours as watch leader)
• Current medical examination (including eyesight test)
• Valid VHF radio certificate (e.g., SRC)

Theory Training Location

Training rooms of Yacht School YNFA: Berliner Freiheit 3, 28327 Bremen

Practical Training Locations

We offer two practical voyages per year for the Yachtmaster Offshore, with two route options:

Option 1: Spring voyage – From Bar/Montenegro to Malta and back (9 days duration)

Option 2: Autumn voyage – From the IJsselmeer (Netherlands) to Helgoland and back (14 days duration)

A minimum of 500 NM must be logged during the voyage. Maximum 4 trainees + skipper on board for personalized attention.

Included Services on the Yacht

• Berth in a shared double cabin (2-person occupancy)
• Practical sailing training
• All exam fees
• Bed linen
• Towels
• Automatic life jackets

Not Included (Extra Costs)

• Travel to/from the yacht
• Course materials
• Fuel (based on consumption)
• Ship’s kitty (food and drinks based on consumption) – The skipper eats free on board; contributes when dining ashore
• Mooring fees (except Marina Bar/Montenegro)
• Certificate issuance: €130 (may take up to 5 weeks)

Course Materials

To ensure all participants use the same resources, we provide a mandatory list of books and materials. This facilitates discussion and problem-solving. The full list for all courses is available here: [Link to materials list on the school’s website].

Total Prices (Theory + Practice)

• €2,100 per person (shared double cabin) – “Malta” voyage
• €2,500 per person (shared double cabin) – “Helgoland” voyage

Upon request, we can share contact details of fellow participants to coordinate shared travel arrangements.

Ready to advance your skippering skills? Contact Yacht School YNFA for more details and bookings!