Sail Offshore Skipper Course

The ISSA Sail Offshore Skipper course is designed for experienced sailors who wish to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to lead open ocean crossings, far from shore, day and night, in varying conditions. This certification is ideal for those who wish to make ocean or offshore crossings safely, and is internationally recognized.

ISSA Sail Offshore Skipper Course Contents

This course covers advanced training in navigation, safety and crew management, as well as providing a solid foundation for ocean voyage planning.

1. Oceanic and Astronomical Navigation
   

   • Use of the sextant and position calculations on the high seas by astronomical navigation.

      

   • Estimated navigation without the support of coastal references.

      

   • Advanced reading of ocean charts and use of electronic instruments such as radar, AIS and GPS.

      

   • Methods to calculate course and drift on long distance routes.

2. Advanced Meteorology
   

   • Analysis of global weather systems (cyclones, fronts, high and low pressure systems).

      

   • Interpretation of weather maps and forecasts for ocean routes.

      

   • Route planning according to ocean current patterns, tides and prevailing winds.

      

   • Techniques to face extreme weather conditions in the open sea.

3. Ocean Voyage Planning
   

   • Elaboration of a complete navigation plan for long voyages.

      

   • Calculation and management of essential consumables (fuel, water, food) for long voyages.

      

   • Identification of ports of refuge and anchorage points on long voyages.

      

   • Contingency planning and alternative routes in case of emergency.

4. Offshore Vessel Handling

   • Trimming sails and advanced maneuvers for ocean crossings, including sail balancing techniques and use of the autopilot.

      

   • Techniques for steering the boat in heavy seas and strong winds.

      

   • Deep water anchoring procedures and methods for safe anchoring offshore.

      

   • Safety manoeuvres in emergency situations in ocean conditions.

5. Offshore Safety and Survival
   

   • Emergency procedures for man overboard in high seas and crew rescue.

      

   • Specific safety equipment for ocean navigation (life rafts, EPIRB, immersion suits, among others).

      

   • Contingency plans for critical failures at sea, including emergency communications by VHF radio and satellite.

      

   • Abandon ship drills and survival techniques at sea.

6. Crew management
   

   • Organization of watchkeeping shifts and rotation of duties on extended voyages.

      

   • Effective communication and conflict resolution at sea.

      

   • Leadership and maintenance of crew welfare, especially in isolated conditions.

      

   • Fatigue management and safety strategies for long voyages.

7. International Regulations and Maritime Legislation
   

   • Mastery of the Collision Avoidance Rules on the High Seas (COLREG).

      

   • Knowledge of international regulations for navigation in international waters.

      

   • Customs and immigration formalities in foreign ports.

      

   • Environmental legislation and regulations for the protection of oceans and coasts.

8. Maintenance and Repairs on the High Seas
   

   • Preventive maintenance techniques for critical systems on board.

      

   • Basic emergency repairs on propulsion system, sails and ropes.

      

   • Diagnosis and troubleshooting of electrical, hydraulic and electronic systems at sea.

      

   • Benefits of Sail Offshore Skipper ISSA Certification

This certification is an internationally recognized professional qualification that allows sailors to charter, lead and operate vessels on ocean routes autonomously. The Sail Offshore Skipper ISSA accreditation is ideal for those who wish to explore distant destinations, cross oceans or work as skippers in the yachting industry.

The Sail Offshore Skipper ISSA course is a significant step in any serious sailor's career, providing the tools and knowledge needed to sail confidently and safely on the high seas, from strategic route planning to emergency management in challenging conditions.