About Urban Truant
One of the UK's leading RYA sail and power training schools, based at Hamble Point Marina on the River Hamble.
Our Instructors
Meet our experienced team of RYA professionals dedicated to delivering quality training.
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1 of 22 Instructor Trainers WorldwideRichard Beniston
RYA Instructor Trainer
Richard brings 23 years of experience skippering yachts across the world – from running luxury yachts across the Atlantic and through the Caribbean, to competing in three Fastnet races and numerous RORC campaigns as skipper. He has delivered sail training on 70ft tall ships around the Baltic, and founded his own RYA school in the North East of England.
Qualifications
- RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean
- RYA Yachtmaster Instructor & Examiner
- RYA Instructor Trainer – 1 of 22 worldwide
- 3 Fastnet Races & RORC Campaigns
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Founder | RYA Committee MemberRussell Lake
RYA Yachtmaster™ Instructor
Russell founded Urban Truant and Sailing Course Online, building the business into a leading authority in both RYA practical training and e-learning. A serving RYA Training Committee member, his expertise shapes how sailing is taught across the UK. His work has been featured in multiple RYA publications for excellence in training delivery, and he continues to instruct and examine to the highest standards.
Qualifications
- RYA Yachtmaster™ Instructor – Sail & Motor
- Member, RYA Training Committee
- Founded Egypt's First RYA Training Centre
- 3 Fastnet Campaigns & Britain Circumnavigation
What We Offer
From beginner to advanced, on the water and online
Practical Training
Step on board our well-equipped modern boats. From Start Yachting to Yachtmaster™, your training begins the minute you're on the water.
Classroom Theory
Join us in our cosy training room equipped with the latest IT and learning aids. Navigation, radio, and shorebased courses with experienced instructors.
Online Learning
Our exclusive SailingCourseOnline platform delivers bite-sized modules with clean graphics, working seamlessly across desktop, tablet and mobile — learn at your own pace, wherever you are.
Why Choose Urban Truant?
We never compromise on quality. Our friendly, knowledgeable instructors are with you during every step of your learning experience.
3:1 Instructor Ratio
With your progression as our priority, we impose a maximum of 3 students for every course on board. This means more time with your instructor, more time practising your skills, and the ability to focus on any areas that need attention. You'll also have a cabin to yourself.
Quality Yachts
Our yachts are equipped and furnished with training in mind. Well-maintained with quality instruments including modern Chartplotters, Radar and AIS. We take your comfort seriously too — your own cabin, 240v sockets on shorepower, and complimentary use of lifejackets and wet weather gear. Marina fees are always included.
Experienced Instructors
We pride ourselves on using the very best instructors available. They're a friendly, experienced team who take the time to ensure you fully understand what you're learning. Our shorebased tutors include Yachtmaster Instructors, examiners and instructor trainers.
Online Learning
Our exclusive SailingCourseOnline portal offers an advanced way to learn at your own pace, working seamlessly across desktops, laptops and mobile devices. Content is written specifically for on-screen learning with bite-sized modules, clean graphics and animations. Our instructor team provides fast, knowledgeable assistance whenever you need it.
Modern Training Facilities
Our training facilities at Hamble Point Marina provide small groups with the perfect environment to study and learn. The room is well-equipped with full audio/visual, a large whiteboard, and plenty of space to spread out your charts. Refreshments are included with every course, with decent coffee always on tap.
Highfield RIBs
All our Powerboat training courses are delivered on our exceptionally maintained Highfield Patrol RIBs (rigid inflatable boats) which perform brilliantly at speed and during close-quarters manoeuvres, giving you confidence in a capable vessel.
Our Location
We're based at Hamble Point Marina on the River Hamble, with the entire Solent within easy reach. The Solent offers some of the best sailing waters in the UK, with varied conditions perfect for learning and progression.
- Address
- 102-103 Saltmakers House
Hamble Point Marina
Hamble, SO31 4JD
Ready to Start Your Sailing Journey?
From learning to sail a yacht to skippering a motor cruiser, we never compromise on quality.