RYA First Aid Course in Dartmouth. Classes run at Dart Marine Academy, one day of classroom-based training. You'll cover first aid skills relevant to life on the water, from dealing with injuries at sea to managing emergencies when professional help may be some distance away. The course runs during the day and completes in a single session, so it fits around other commitments. You'll need a genuine interest in the subject to get started. An initial assessment will confirm the course is the right fit for you.
Who this course is for
This course offers a basic introduction to navigation and safety, ideal for anyone new to boating, including sailors, powerboaters, sea anglers, divers, and boatmasters. It is also valuable for experienced dinghy and keelboat sailors and inshore racers.The course is held at our state-of-the-art Marine Academy, situated on the banks of the River Dart at Noss Marina.
Entry requirements
You should have a genuine interest in this subject
What you will learn
You'll learn how to respond to medical emergencies on board a vessel.
You'll practise CPR and how to use it in a marine environment.
You'll learn how to treat wounds, burns, and injuries at sea.
You'll understand how to manage a casualty when emergency services are not immediately available.
You'll learn how to recognise and respond to hypothermia and cold-water shock.
You'll gain confidence in making a distress call and coordinating a first response.
How you will learn
The course is delivered in a classroom setting over one day. You'll learn through a mix of instruction and hands-on practical exercises. Assessment is based on your participation and demonstration of first aid skills during the session. There is no written exam.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Dart Marine Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Sailing instructor: first aid is a core requirement for RYA teaching roles.
Yacht skipper: essential knowledge for anyone skippering a vessel with crew.
Marine charter operator: required for commercial passenger boat work.
Watersports coach: supports duty-of-care responsibilities on the water.
Powerboat instructor: RYA first aid qualification often required at this level.
What you could study next
RYA Powerboat Level 2 Certificate: a practical on-water qualification for powerboat handling.
RYA Day Skipper Certificate: the next step for sailors wanting to skipper a yacht on coastal passages.
RYA Yachtmaster Certificate: the advanced qualification recognised by employers in the marine industry.
STCW Basic Safety Training: required for anyone working professionally on commercial vessels.
