RYA Start Yachting
A short introduction to sailing ideal for complete beginners. If you've always wondered what sailing is like and wanted to give it a go, this fun weekend aboard a yacht is the perfect first step.
RYA Start Yachting is a short introduction to sailing ideal for complete beginners. If you've always wondered what sailing was like and wanted to give it a go, then this is the course for you.
The emphasis is on learning basic skills while having fun. You'll be welcomed by one of our friendly knowledgeable skippers and during your time on board you will be encouraged to participate fully, enabling you to understand how life on board a yacht works.
By the end of the course you will have experienced steering a yacht, sail handling, ropework and be aware of safety on board. Holders of the Start Yachting certificate can go on to complete the Competent Crew course in a reduced time of three days.
What You'll Learn
- Basic sea terms and parts of a boat
- Rigging and sails
- Essential ropework and knots
- Steering under sail and power
- Rules of the road and lookout
- Weather forecasts
- Man overboard recovery
- Safety equipment and harnesses
- Emergency procedures
Detailed Syllabus
The Yacht
- Basic knowledge of sea terms, parts of a boat, her rigging and sails
Ropework
- Ability to tie essential knots: figure of eight, round turn and two half hitches, bowline
Underway
- Experience sailing a yacht on all points of sail
- Steer a yacht under sail or power
Rules of the Road
- Keep an efficient lookout at sea
Meteorology
- Where to obtain a weather forecast
Man Overboard Recovery
- Understand the action to be taken to recover a man overboard
Clothing and Equipment
- Understand and comply with rules for wearing safety harnesses, lifejackets and personal buoyancy aids
Emergency Equipment and Precautions
- Awareness of hazards on board a yacht
- Action to be taken in the event of an emergency
After the Course
You'll have a basic understanding of life on board a yacht, including knowledge that is useful towards becoming competent crew. You will leave with a much better idea of whether you would like to spend more time on the water, and the confidence to continue your sailing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any sailing experience?
No — Start Yachting is perfect for complete beginners. Over two days you will learn the basics of sailing, ropework, and safety on board. It is a great introduction before committing to the longer Competent Crew course.
What is the difference between Start Yachting and Competent Crew?
Start Yachting is a two-day taster that gives you a feel for life on board. Competent Crew is a more comprehensive five-day course that covers everything you need to be a confident crew member. Many students do Start Yachting first to decide if sailing is for them.
Do I stay on the yacht overnight?
No — Start Yachting is a day course. You return to shore each evening. The longer Competent Crew and Day Skipper courses include overnight stays on the yacht.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We sail in most weather conditions as it is all part of the experience. In extreme conditions we may need to adjust the plan, and we will contact you as early as possible if the course needs to be rescheduled.
Where do I meet and what time?
Full joining instructions including the exact meeting point, start time, and parking information will be sent to you by email before the course.
What if I need to cancel?
Please see our terms and conditions for our cancellation policy. We understand plans can change and will always try to move you to an alternative date where possible.