Weather appropriate clothing and sunscreen if it’s sunny
Closed-toe shoes you don’t mind getting wet
Advanced
MCA/RYA Advanced Powerboat Certificate of Competence Exam
Event Date:
November 21, 2026
Event Description
Advanced powerboat exam
An assessment of skippering ability for those seeking commercial endorsement
This is an examination, not a course.
A practical and theoretical examination of advanced skippering ability by day and night. The exam will thoroughly test your practical boat handling skills, as well as your theory knowledge up to the level of Coastal Skipper Yachtmaster Offshore. Required for commercial endorsement on vessels up to 24 metres. If you feel you require additional preparation before taking the exam, check out our MCA/RYA Advanced Powerboat Exam Prep Day.
Exam Duration: 1 candidate 4 – 5 hours, 2 candidates 5 – 6 hours, and 3 candidates 6- 7 hours
Timings vary depending on dates and number of candidates booked; an email confirming course timings is sent after booking.
Prerequisites
- Minimum age: 17
Required certification
- GMDSS-compliant Marine Radio Operator’s Certificate (e.g. RYA Short Range Certificate)
- Valid RYA First Aid certificate
- Advanced Powerboat course completion certificate if claiming reduced sea time
It is highly recommended that you hold a Coastal Skipper Yachtmaster Offshore certificate (although not essential) prior to your exam, as it is unlikely that your theory knowledge will be at the required level to pass the examination without it.
Required seatime, documented minimum sea time completed on a seagoing powerboat in the last 10 years:
- 30 days at sea (Reduced to 20 days if an RYA Advanced Powerboat course completion certificate is held)
- 2 days as skipper
- 800 miles (Reduced to 400 miles if an RYA Advanced Powerboat course completion certificate is held)
- 12 night-hours
What you’ll achieve
MCA/RYA Advanced Powerboat Certificate of Competence. When commercially endorsed: authorised to work on small commercial vessels up to 24 metres, up to 20 miles from shore, day and night.
Examiner to student ratio
- 1 examiner to 3 students
Course Materials
- None
Assessment Method
- Candidates will be observed throughout the exam
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to bring?
What course(s) would be suitable after this?
MCA/RYA Commercial Endorsement