Navigator Courses

Overview

In 2026, traditional paper charts, including raster charts, are expected to be phased out worldwide. For navigators, this means a complete shift to Electronic Navigation Charts (ENCs) and vector charts. But what does that really mean for you on the water?

Today’s navigator works in a very different world than even a decade ago—one where weather data is live, instruments are more accurate, and charting is digital. Modern navigation is about blending these technologies with the time-proven skills that still matter: reading the chart, planning your passage, and making confident decisions when conditions change.

ORCV’s Fundamental Navigator and Tactical Navigator Courses are designed to bridge that gap. Led by experienced ocean skippers and navigators, these courses combine interactive learning with practical examples, giving you the knowledge and confidence to navigate anywhere—whether you’re racing offshore, cruising the coast, skippering a motor yacht, or part of a delivery crew.

We cut through the noise of countless apps, software platforms, and chart plotters, focusing on the core skill every navigator needs: understanding charts and using them effectively, no matter the tool.

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Fundamental Navigator Course

At a Glance:

Course Level: Beginner / Foundation
Focus: Hands-on chart reading, app navigation, essential skills
Format: In-person classroom & practical exercises
Cost: $122.50 for ORCV Youth members, $220 for ORCV members, $270 for non-members

The Fundamental Navigator Course Includes:

An introduction to the basic navigation skills required for safe yachting in coastal waters including:

Explanation of underlying concepts which underpin navigation theory
Concepts of time, and distance
Use of latitude and longitude to define position
Basic training in the use of electronic charts and the information they contain
Understanding bearings, magnetic variation and chart datum
Plotting and planning
Tides and their influence
Route Planning Fundamentals
Navigation technology – Chart plotters, GPS, AIS and related satellite services.

Upon completion of this course, participants will have the basic knowledge required to:

Interpret charts, identifying, lights, leads markers and common hazards
Calculate bearings and plot positions
Understand the key components required for successful route plans for short coastal trips.

The course includes 2 teaching sessions, a follow up Q&A (Optional) and home assignments.

Pre-requisites:

Basic familiarity with the use of your navigational app
Access to an electronic chart on Tablet, Ipad or PC for use during the course
Some familiarity with the use of chart plotters would be helpful.

Note that this course does not instruct you on the use of your chart plotter or app (phone or computer).

2026 Course Dates

The 2026 Fundamental Navigator course has been completed.

2027 Course Dates

2027 Dates	Venue
Session 1: Tuesday 13 July, 7-9pm.	TBA
Session 2: Thursday 15 July, 7-9pm.	TBA
Session 3: Tuesday 20 July, 7-9pm.	Online

Please use the Waitlist button below to add your name to the waitlist to receive a notification when the 2027 Fundamental Navigator course is open for bookings.

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Tactical Navigator Course

At a Glance:

Course Level: Intermediate
Focus: Pre-race & cruise planning, weather routing, tactical decision-making, contingency planning, post-race analysis
Format: Classroom with hands-on exercises
Software: Expedition (bring your own apps if desired)
Cost: $150 for ORCV Youth members, $270 for ORCV members, $330 for non-members

Take your navigation skills to the next level!
You’ve mastered the fundamentals—reading charts, interpreting formats, and navigating confidently across different apps and tools. Now it’s time to put those skills into practice with real-world navigation strategies.

Whether planning a coastal cruise or preparing for a regatta, the Tactical Navigator course will help you make informed decisions that put your boat in the right place at the right time.

In this Tactical Navigator course, you'll explore:
- Pre-race/cruise planning
- Weather routing and tactical decision-making
- Contingency planning and “what if” scenarios
- Post-race analysis and performance reviews
This course is based in the classroom—because hands-on learning with expert guidance makes all the difference. Our instructors will be right there with you to ensure everything clicks.
We’ll be using Expedition as our primary navigation software. You're welcome to bring your own tools or apps, but the demonstrations and examples will focus on Expedition.

Hands-On Learning:
Classroom-based instruction ensures concepts click, with plenty of opportunities to practice skills in real-world scenarios.

2026 Course

The 2026 Tactical Navigator course has been completed.

2027 Course Dates

Dates for the 2027 Tactical Nacigator course have not yet been confirmed.

Please use the Waitlist button below to add your name to the waitlist to receive a notification when the 2027 Tactical Navigator course is open for bookings.