If you already hold an RYA Certificate of Competence, such as RYA Yachtmaster Offshore, and want to use it commercially, you’ll need to complete the RYA PPR course.

What Does PPR Stand For?

Professional Practices and Responsibilities

Why Do I Need the RYA PPR Course?

If you want to work commercially using your RYA qualifications, such as skippering a charter yacht, teaching, or operating a workboat, the PPR course is mandatory. It proves that you understand your legal and ethical responsibilities as a professional mariner and are committed to operating safely and responsibly.

What Is the RYA PPR Course About?

The PPR course introduces you to the legal framework and professional standards expected of anyone working commercially at sea.
You’ll learn about your duty of care, safe operation, and professional conduct, as well as the key legislation that governs commercial maritime work: including SOLAS, MARPOL, COSWoP, and the Code of Practice.

The course doesn’t attempt to cover every rule in detail for every operation. Instead, it gives you the confidence to make sound, informed decisions and understand where to find the information you need.

Who can take the RYA PPR course?

Anyone can, there are no age limits or experience requirements. Even if you’re not yet working commercially, the course offers valuable insight into the professional side of the maritime world.

When Should I Take the RYA PPR Course?

You can take the course at any time, but most people do it just before or after completing their RYA Yachtmaster or RYA Coastal Skipper qualification. It must be completed before applying for your commercial endorsement.

Do I Need to Know Anything Before Starting?

No prior knowledge is required. The course is designed to be accessible to all. Though the expectation is that you already have an RYA Certificate of Competence.

How Long Does The PPR Course Take?

The RYA PPR course is online and entirely self-paced. Most people complete it in 6–8 hours, but you can take as long as you need.

What Is in the PPR Syllabus?

The syllabus includes:

• Your role in the professional maritime world

• Safe management of commercial vessels

• Correct manning levels

• Keeping skills and qualifications up to date

• Maintenance and carriage of safety equipment

• Creating and implementing risk controls

How Does the Online PPR Course Work?

The RYA PPR course is delivered entirely online through the RYA’s eLearning platform. When you enrol with Ardent Training, you’ll get full access to the course plus support from our experienced instructors.
You can study on your computer, tablet, or phone, at your own pace, and reach out to us whenever you need help or clarification.

You can find the course here.

How Much Does It Cost?

At the time of writing, the RYA PPR course with Ardent Training costs just £59.

Is the RYA PPR Course Difficult?

Not particularly. It’s designed to be straightforward and practical, with clear explanations, interactive content, and examples based on real-life scenarios. Expect to spend a few focused hours studying, it’s more about understanding principles than memorising facts.

How Do I Pass the PPR Course?

At the end of the course, you’ll complete an online assessment designed to test your understanding of your responsibilities as a commercial skipper or crew member. It focuses on real-world application, showing that you know the duty of care you owe to crew, passengers, and other water users.

Can I Fail the RYA PPR Course?

You’ll have multiple opportunities to review and retry the assessment if needed. The course is designed to help you learn, not catch you out. With Ardent Training’s instructor support, everyone who completes the course with effort passes.

How Long Does the RYA PPR Certificate Last?

Your PPR certificate does not expire, but you’ll need to revalidate your commercial endorsement every five years with the RYA. You won’t need to retake the PPR unless significant changes are made to the regulations in future.

What’s Next After the RYA PPR Course?

Once you’ve passed, you can use your RYA PPR certificate as part of your application for a commercial endorsement on your RYA Certificate of Competence.

You’ll also need a valid RYA Marine Radio (SRC) certificate, so if you haven’t already got one, that’s a great next step, especially if you’re planning to work commercially after completing your RYA Yachtmaster Coastal or Yachtmaster Offshore qualification (motor or sail).