IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited
International Yacht Training
Astro Nav UK Ltd. is an IYT Professional Partner School and is a sister company of CTS & SMS UK Ltd which is an MCA ATP.
About this course
Pre Requisites
Candidates should be 18 years of age or older.
IYT Worldwide MOY Unlimited Programme is restricted to current holders of a valid IYT Worldwide MOY Limited Certificate. Note that we will also accept:
- MCA OOW 3000gt (Yachts) CoC
- MCA Notice of Eligibility (NOE) for OOW 3000gt or Master 200gt (we can assist you with this)*
- RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Commercially endorsed subject to also holding an NOE* (we can assist you with this).
- MCA Master (Code Vessel) <200GT CoC
- Marshall Islands Master (STCW II/3) <350GT / Chief Mate (STCW II/3 <500GT)
- AMSA Master less than 35m Near Coastal (Master <35m NC) – previously referred to as Master 4.
Additional requirements:
- A current physical/medical, which must include eyesight and colour blindness check.
- Seatime evidence of either two trips of 250 miles, or one trip of 500 miles out of sight of land (more than 20nm).
The Passage Planning element of the course criteria will be completed during the course and will act as a foundation, providing context throughout the course allowing you to embed new celestial skills as we proceed through the various learning outcomes.
Notes
- Course fees do not include IYT License Fee of $425
- 1 to 1 Tuition for this course is available on request in the UK
- Accommodation available form £30 per night
Check Availability
- 12th - 16th May 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 9th - 13th June 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 14th - 18th July 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 11th - 15th August 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 8th - 12th September 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 6th - 10th October 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 10th - 14th November 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
- 8th - 12th December 2025£1,150.00 Spaces AvailableBook Now
Course Enquiry
We are on hand to help with any queries you may have regarding this course.
Please fill in the form provided, and we will be in touch.
FAQs
IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited vs. RYA Yachtmaster Ocean: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been exploring options to progress from MCA Officer of the Watch 3000gt to MCA Chief Mate 3000gt (Yachts) or to upgrade your CoC from 150nm to an unlimited sea area, you’ve likely come across two popular courses: the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited and the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean. While both certifications are highly regarded in the yachting and maritime industries, there are key differences that make the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited course an exceptional choice – especially for those looking to qualify for higher-ranking positions like Chief Mate or Master / Captain. Let’s break it down.
- What Is the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Course?
The IYT (International Yacht Training) Master of Yachts Unlimited course is a comprehensive program designed for experienced mariners who want to take the next step in their careers. This course is approved by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), which makes it a globally recognized qualification. It’s tailored for those aiming to command yachts up to 200GT or serve as Chief Mate on larger vessels.
USPs of the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Course:
- Exam Included: Unlike some other certifications, the exam is built into the course, streamlining the process for candidates.
- MCA Approval: This qualification is accepted by the MCA, which means it can be used to meet the requirements for Chief Mate roles.
- Hands-On Learning: The course includes practical passage planning and celestial navigation using real sights, ensuring you’re fully prepared for real-world challenges.
- A Commercial CoC: An MCA Approved STCW Master of Yachts 200gt (Power & Sail) and OOW (Officer of the Watch) 500gt Unlimited (sea area)
- What Is the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean?
The RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Yachtmaster Ocean course is another well-respected qualification that focuses on celestial navigation and ocean passage-making. It is often pursued by skippers and crew looking to enhance their long-distance recreational sailing credentials.
However, it’s worth noting that the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean course does not include the exam. Candidates must arrange their exam separately with an RYA examiner, which can add time and complexity to the process. Furthermore, prior to taking the exam, practical celestial sights must be taken on which you are then questioned. IYT incorporate the practical sights into their course ensuring instruction and guidance is on hand.
- Key Differences Between the Two Courses
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which course aligns with your career goals:
| FEATURE | IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited (CoC) | RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course |
| Exam Included | Yes | No |
| MCA Approved Commercial CoC | Yes | No – the qualification is not MCA approved, however the CoC can be commercially endorsed and is then accepted by the MCA as part of the Chief Mate |
| Practical Passage Planning | Included | Not always included / requires submitting for review prior to final exam. |
| Celestial Navigation (Sights) | Practical sights included | Theoretical focus. Sights to be taken separately prior to final exam. |
| Global Recognition | Widely accepted by many countries / flag states, especially for superyachts. | Widely respected in sailing communities |
| Duration | 5-6 days including exam, sights & passage plan | 5-6 days excluding exam, sights & passage plan. |
| Accepted for | Progression to MCA Chief Mate Yachts 3000 or to upgrade from Mater 200/500gt Near Coastal to an Unlimited Sea Area | Entry (within 12 months) to the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Oral Examination
(subject to sights & passage plan & seatime) |
| Final certificate | IYT/MCA STCW Master of Yachts 200gt Unlimited / OOW 500gt (Power & Sail) Certificate of Competency | RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory Course Completion Certificate |
- Why Choose the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited Course?
If your goal is to progress to senior roles like Chief Mate or Captain on superyachts or workboats, the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited course is the clear winner. Its MCA approval ensures that your qualification meets the standards required by the maritime industry, and the inclusion of practical skills like passage planning and celestial navigation prepares you for the challenges of real-world navigation.
Additionally, the fact that the exam is integrated into the course means you can complete your certification without the hassle of scheduling a separate assessment. This makes the IYT course not only more efficient but also more practical for busy mariners.
Conclusion
While both the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited and the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean courses are excellent options for advancing your maritime career, the IYT course stands out for its MCA approval, integrated exam, and practical focus. If you’re serious about climbing the ranks in the yachting world, the IYT Master of Yachts Unlimited course is the smart choice.