A Yachtmaster prep week is an intensive training course designed to prepare candidates for their final RYA/MCA Yachtmaster examination. The course is structured to be all-encompassing, covering both theoretical knowledge and practical boat handling skills. A key feature of this preparation is that it is often split into three progressive levels, catering to different aspirations and experience levels.​

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The first level is the Yachtmaster Coastal, which is suitable for those looking to skipper a small yacht on short coastal passages. The prep week at this level focuses on close-quarters boat handling, passage planning for shorter trips, and pilotage within sight of land.

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The next level, Yachtmaster Offshore, is the most popular and represents a significant step up. This level is for those who wish to command a yacht on longer offshore passages, day or night. The prep week for Yachtmaster Offshore hones advanced skills such as celestial navigation basics, weather forecasting, passage planning for extended trips, and dealing with emergency situations far from shore.

Finally, the pinnacle is the Yachtmaster Ocean. This is a qualification for those who plan to undertake transoceanic voyages. The prep week for this level focuses heavily on advanced celestial navigation using a sextant, worldwide meteorology, and the complex planning required for a truly long-distance passage, including a detailed understanding of ocean currents and routes.

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