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This or that
14 comparisons, each with the answer at the top. If the honest conclusion is “they are the same thing under two names”, the page says that rather than manufacturing a difference.
Training schemes
RYA vs Australian Sailing
One is the national body with a club in every harbour. The other is what the yacht world outside Australia recognises.
RYA vs IYT
Two international schemes covering nearly identical ground, with two genuine differences worth knowing.
RYA vs American Sailing
A fair comparison on paper, and a lopsided one in Australia.
Courses and levels
Competent Crew vs Day Skipper
The difference is not difficulty. It is whether the boat is your responsibility.
Day Skipper vs Yachtmaster
One is a course you book. The other is an examination you become ready for.
Yachtmaster Coastal vs Offshore
Same examination format, materially different sea time, and a real consequence at the commercial end.
How you learn
ICC vs a skipper certificate
One proves you can sail. The other satisfies a government. They are not substitutes.
Boat licence vs sailing certificate
The single most common confusion in Australian sailing, and the one with legal consequences.
Theory vs practical courses
The order is not a matter of taste. Get it wrong and you pay for a week you do not get.
Liveaboard vs day courses
Same syllabus, same certificate, very different weeks — and only one of them gets you out at night.
Private tuition vs group courses
Private tuition is not simply the expensive option. For some people it is the only one that works.
Sailing school vs yacht club
A school sells you a certificate. A club sells you a season. They are not competing.
Still not sure?
Three questions — your experience, the boat you want to sail, and your goal — give you a starting course and the schools that teach it near you.