First aid on a boat is different from first aid on land. Space is tight, the platform is moving, you may be cold and wet, and help can be further away. The RYA First Aid course is a one-day, classroom-based course designed specifically for people who go afloat, from inland waters through to coastal and cross-channel sailing.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Course length: one day.
• Format: classroom based.
• Minimum age: none.
• Experience required: none.

It is MCA approved and is used to satisfy first aid requirements for specific RYA Certificates of Competence.

Who Can Do an RYA First Aid Course?

Anyone can take it. The RYA lists no required experience and no minimum age, and the course is aimed at anyone who goes afloat.

Is the Course MCA Approved?

Yes. The RYA states the course is MCA approved, and that it satisfies the first aid requirements for the Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster and Advanced Powerboat Certificates of Competence, plus some commercial work afloat.
If you’re aiming for commercial endorsement, remember first aid is only one piece of the wider requirement set (for example PPR, medical fitness, sea survival, and radio).

How Long Does the Course Take and Can It Be Done Online?

It is a one-day course and classroom based. It cannot be taken online.

What Does the Course Cover? Is There a Set Syllabus?

The course content includes recovery position in a confined space, CPR including the drowning protocol, cold shock and hypothermia, seasickness and dehydration, getting medical assistance or advice by VHF, and helicopter rescue.
The RYA also highlights topics like bleeding and head injuries in its safety guidance around first aid afloat.

How Much Does It Cost?

Prices vary by centre and what’s included (for example, some include materials and refreshments, others do not). Before booking, ask what the instructor : student ratio will be, and remember, cheaper is usually not better.

What’s Included?

All required equipment for the training will be provided on the day, along with an RYA First Aid Book to take home. A certificate will also be provided on successful completion.

How Do I “Pass”?

This course is a practical, instructor-led training with ongoing checks that you can apply the skills, rather than a single written exam. If you’re choosing between schools, ask how they structure practice and scenarios so you can pick a course that fits how you learn best.

How Long Is the Certificate Valid For?

First aid certificates should be renewed every three years (STCW first aid refresh cycles may differ).

What Comes After the RYA First Aid Course?

If you’re building toward commercial endorsement, additional requirements include PPR, medical fitness evidence (ML5/ENG1), Basic Sea Survival (or STCW equivalent), and a VHF SRC or other acceptable marine radio certificate.
If you’re boating privately, you will want to consider carrying a suitable first aid manual and tailoring onboard kits and training to the level of self-sufficiency your boating demands.

Any first aid course has an expiry date, and so you will be looking to re-validate your first aid knowledge in the future, or perhaps doing a more advanced first aid course. 

You could also check out some other RYA courses such as RYA Day Skipper Theory or RYA Yachtmaster Ocean.

Commercial Use

If you work on coded vessels up to Area Category 2 (up to 60 miles from a safe haven), first aid can link into Category C medical stores. The RYA notes that for commercial endorsement holders, accepted first aid options include RYA First Aid and STCW Elementary First Aid, and that if someone is responsible for first aid onboard, the course must cover Category C medical stores as detailed in MSN 1905 (M+F).