What experience do I need for RYA Day Skipper and Competent Crew courses?

For Competent Crew, none: it is designed as a beginner's course.  For Day skipper, 100 miles, 5 days on board and 4 night hours are needed before the course.  It is also advisable to have taken an RYA Day Skipper Theory course unless you have experience of tides and navigation.

Can I take a Day Skipper course without any experience?

Yes, but it would need to be a 9 day one, to enable you to manage the theory and the mileage required.

I have lots of experience, but it isn't logged.  Is this a problem?

The RYA personal log book has a section that allows you to record experience prior to buying the log book.  So it is possible to record your mileage and experience there.

Can you cater for special diets?

Yes, it is not easy with the limited cooking facilities on a yacht, but it can be done.

What is the youngest age for Competent Crew and Day Skipper Practical?

There is no lower limit for competent crew, but a child would need to be strong enough to carry out the tasks requiring muscle power.  For Day Skipper practical, the youngest allowed is 16.