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 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
• Status: Opening soon
• Cost:  $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).

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Tactical Navigator Course (new in 2025)

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: $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.

Register now to secure your spot and advance your navigation skills with expert guidance!

Course dates:

If you are interested in attending the course, please put your name on the waitlist.