RYA Radar Operator Course

The aim of this course is to teach students to use small boat radar to assist decision making in collision avoidance, pilotage and navigation. There is an RYA certificate upon completion of the course.

    Radar theory

    Components of a radar set

    Beam with and pulse length

    Understanding the picture

    Refining the picture:

    Clutter controls

    Head Up, Course Up and North Up modes

    Passive reflectors

    Active reflectors

    Fixing position by radar:

    Pilotage by radar:

    The principles of relative motion

    Automatic radar plotting aids

    The implications of IRPCS Rules

    The practical limitations of small craft radar

    Radar plotting

Course Requirements

Some knowledge of navigation and  collision regulations to Day Skipper Shorebased level would be an advantage. 

The course runs from 0900 to 1600 and includes tea, coffee and biscuits.