Two hundred RYA Yachtmaster and Cruising Instructors from across the UK and as far afield as New Zealand met in Bournemouth for the annual RYA Instructor Conference.

Now in its 25th year the conference allows the RYA and RYA Instructors to get together and discuss topics pertinent to Instructors out in the field, enjoy a selection of key note speakers, as well allowing the opportunity to socialise and network with like minded people.

Spread over two days, day one opened with a talk from Paul Bossier, Chief Executive of the RNLI, followed by an informative session from Rear Admiral Ian Moncrieff; National Hydrographer from the UKHO. 

Delegates then broke off in to groups to discuss a number of issues, including the future development of the day skipper shorebased course.
Day one ended with a presentation from marine photographer Rick Tomlinson, treating delegates to a photographic tour of the Volvo Ocean Race.

Feedback from the group discussions kicked off day two, followed by briefings on the new RYA Instructor membership, partner programme and an update on RYA activities.

As well as the speakers and break-out sessions there were a number of specialist exhibitors present throughout the weekend including Ocean Safety, RNLI, The Green Blue and Royal Institute of Navigation providing guests with special offers and information.