Maritime Skills Level 5 NQ

What is special about this course?

This course is perfect for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and working as part of a team.    

Offering a comprehensive introduction to maritime skills, you will gain several industry recognised tickets and RYA qualifications such as Powerboat 2, VHF Radio, and Essential Navigation.  

Our friendly team of highly qualified teaching staff will guide and support you every step of the way. Working as part of the crew, you will develop essential skills that are crucial for success in industry.

With plenty of time to practice your new skills, you will build the confidence and capabilities needed to pursue cadet training or step directly into a maritime role.  

The course opens doors to a variety of employment opportunities in the merchant navy, leisure industry and aquaculture sectors. 

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course however, we recommend that you enjoy practical outdoor activities. You must be 16 years of age at the start of the course.  

Much of your time will be spent outside and on the water learning practical skills such as:

  • How to handle a small power boat, including anchoring and mooring exercises. Most learners manage to complete level 1 and 2 of this RYA qualification
  • Ropework: learning to tie essential knots and develop rope handling techniques
  • Radio operations: how to communicate legally, professionally and effectivity on VHF radios

In the classroom environment you will learn about:

  • Coastal navigation and using charts
  • Understanding meteorology and weather
  • Basic first aid skills
  • Basic numeracy

You'll have the opportunity for personal development too and we'll support you to:

  • Gain effective communication skills like giving orders and being part of a team
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Take responsibility for your own, and others, health and safety
  • Build your confidence and resilience 

Equipment

The college will provide access to the College RIB, outboard engines and other specialist equipment. All PPE and lifejackets will be provided.

How will I study my course?

  • Full Time

Theory based sessions will take place in either Dunoon or Oban learning centres. Practical activities will be arranged by your lecturer and may be weather dependant.

You will attend class for approximately 3 days per week.

How long will my course last?

17 Weeks

Where can I study my course?

    • UHI Argyll
    • Dunoon Learning Centre
    • Oban Learning Centre

Start date

  • 25 August 2025 in Dunoon
  • 19 January 2026 in Oban

Fees

For the latest information on fees please see our fees policy.

What can I do on completion of my course?

When you successfully complete this course, you will have achieved many of the tickets which are highly sought after by employers. This opens doors to a variety of employment opportunities in the merchant navy, leisure industry and aquaculture sectors.

Some of our students have gone on to work on locally on tour boats and fish farms, whilst others are travelling worldwide on superyachts. The world really is your oyster!  

Is there more information available online?

QR Code - scan to visit course page

You can use the above QR code to connect directly to the course details.

The course gives you a good test in the water to see if this lifestyles for you. It’s not like you’re thrown in at the deep end, the lecturers are slowly building you up and before you know it, you’re taking command. 

Morne Bootsma - former student 

Maritime Skills NQ

I want to start in Sept 25 in Dunoon

We are delighted that you are thinking about studying at UHI Argyll. UHI Argyll operates a fair and open admissions system committed to equality of opportunity and non-discrimination. We consider all applications on merit and on the basis of ability to achieve, without discrimination on grounds of age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity status, race, religion and/or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background. We welcome applications from all prospective students and aim to provide appropriate and efficient services to students with disabilities.