From Total Beginner to Active Crew in Just One Week
Learn the essentials of sailing on a supportive, hands-on course that takes you from complete beginner to confident, active crew.
RYA recognised training. Small groups for focused, high quality instruction.
RYA Courses From £716pp
Key Facts
- Duration: 5 days UK . 6 days in the Med
- Level: Beginner . No experience needed
- Locations: UK . Greece . Croatia
- Minimum Age: 12+
Who This Course Is For
- Anyone keen to learn real hands-on sailing
- Travellers who want to be active crew, not passengers
- Families with teens looking for a recognised RYA course
- Anyone planning to progress to Day Skipper
What You Will Be Able to Do
By the end of your RYA Competent Crew course, you will be able to:
- Steer a yacht under sail and power with confidence
- Handle sails, lines and winches safely and efficiently
- Keep a proper lookout and understand basic rules of the road
- Take your turn in everyday duties on board, above and below deck
- Row and handle the dinghy safely, including loading and landing
- Take part in a short passage and experience night sailing
Requirements & Next Steps
Requirements & Practical Details
- Experience required: None
- Minimum age: 12+
- Course duration:
- 5 days in the UK
- 6 training days within a 7-day week in the Med
- Accommodation: Cabin on board your training yacht
- Included: Tuition, accommodation, most on-board meals, fuel, moorings, safety equipment
- Not included: Travel to base, evening meals ashore (Med), personal insurance
- Cabin sharing: Same-sex cabin shares arranged when travelling solo
Your Next Steps After Competent Crew
Take Day Skipper Theory
Online or classroom. Many students prefer doing this before the practical.
Progress to Day Skipper Practical
Once you complete theory + Competent Crew, you’re ready for the practical skipper course.
What this qualifies you to do
You’ll be prepared to take charge of a yacht on short, daytime coastal passages and book flotilla or bareboat holidays confidently.
Booking a Training Course
To book or check availability get in touch with our experienced team on one of the links below.
FAQs about RYA Competent Crew
What is RYA Competent Crew?
RYA Competent Crew is the entry-level practical sailing course that teaches you the essential skills to become an active, useful member of a yacht’s crew. It’s the first step in the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme and the ideal starting point if you want to progress towards RYA Day Skipper and beyond.
Do I need any sailing experience?
No. RYA Competent Crew is designed for complete beginners. Your instructor will teach you everything step by step, from basic sail handling to helming, safety and daily routines on board.
What will I be able to do after this course?
You’ll be able to steer a yacht under sail and power, handle lines and sails, keep lookout, row the dinghy, and take part confidently in all normal duties on board. You will also have completed the practical foundation needed before moving on to RYA Day Skipper.
What should I bring?
You don’t need expensive sailing gear. Comfortable clothing, soft-soled shoes, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, and a refillable bottle are usually enough. We’ll provide all safety equipment, including life jackets.
What comes after Competent Crew?
Most students complete RYA Day Skipper Theory next, followed by Day Skipper Practical. This qualification allows you to take charge of a yacht on short coastal passages and book flotilla or bareboat sailing holidays with confidence.
Is the course suitable for solo travellers?
Yes, absolutely. Many students join alone because small groups and shared accommodation create a friendly, supportive atmosphere on board.
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