BBDouro Nautical Experiences - Formações Náuticas

Preparing for the Navigation License Exams

Find out how to prepare for your Sailor or Local Master exam with practical tips and strategies for staying calm and confident on the day of the test.

Before you hoist the sails or speed off towards the horizon, there’s one challenge: passing the Sailor or Local Master exam. To make sure you arrive on the big day with the confidence of someone who knows what they’re doing, we’ve put together a set of practical strategies that will help you master each stage – without letting stress stir the waters.

THEORY DOESN'T HAVE TO BE A RAGING SEA

The theoretical exam requires a solid knowledge of the main topics in navigation, but there are areas where the rigor is even greater.
To begin with, it is essential to master the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (RIEAM). And here there is a crucial point: in the exam, the result cannot be less than 75% in the questions dedicated to RIEAM. Another essential subject is safety and first aid, where there is also a specific criterion: the result cannot be less than 60%.
In short, it’s not enough to “know a bit about everything”. You need to ensure that you have a real grasp of these areas – not just to pass the exam, but above all because of the responsibility you will have at sea.
BBDouro Nautical Experiences - Formações Náuticas

TIPS FOR PREPARING

– Read and re-read the RIEAM. Understanding the regulations allows you to answer the exam questions more intuitively – and to navigate much more safely once you’ve graduated;

– Review the safety procedures on board, from mandatory equipment to basic first aid techniques;

– Make short but frequent revisions;

– Take the last few days to simulate previous exams. Practicing with questions similar to the official ones will help you get used to the format and identify topics where you need reinforcement.

– Plan to arrive early to avoid unforeseen events;

– Take a deep breath before you start;
– In the theory test, don’t get stuck on the most difficult questions; answer the clearest ones first.

PREPARE WITH THOSE WHO KNOW

If you want to prepare yourself with someone who really knows the sea, BBDouro Nautical Experiences’ Nautical Trainings are the ideal choice:

– Complete and up-to-date e-learning platform: Study and exam preparation content accessible at any time.

– Practical lessons: Experience on the water makes learning real and prepares you for real sailing situations.

– Experienced trainers: Our lecturers have years of experience and are passionate about sharing their knowledge, offering ongoing support.

– Flexibility: The lectures are held after work, but all the sessions are recorded, allowing you to attend at your own pace and easily reconcile them with your day-to-day life.
Good studies and good tides!
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