RYA Sailing Courses
The perfect introduction to sailing — ideal for complete beginners and young sailors. Get a taste of life on a yacht in Greece, Croatia or the UK.
Overview
RYA Start Yachting covers the first two days of the Competent Crew syllabus and can be taken over an extended period for a relaxed introduction to sailing. It is ideal for complete beginners wanting a taster of yachting, or for children too young for the full Competent Crew course.
For most adults able to dedicate 5 or more days, we recommend moving straight to RYA Competent Crew.
Safety is paramount on all RYA courses. To learn more about our standards, see the Training Centres overview page.
None
Pre-course requirements
2–6
Days duration
Age 8+
Recommended minimum age
Beginner
No experience needed
Course Requirements
This course is aimed at those with no previous boating experience. For a more challenging beginners course, RYA Competent Crew is recommended. To find out about our full range, see the RYA Yachtmaster Scheme.
Next Steps
After this course, you will be given a full debrief from your instructor, who will be able to provide you with advice on the best next steps.
For most students, an additional 3 days training will yield the RYA Competent Crew certificate.
Where to Take This Course
The course has a minimum duration of 2 days and can be completed over a weekend at our Southampton UK school or over 5 days or a week if you wish.
For our Mediterranean schools in Greece and Croatia, this course is delivered over 6 days as part of a week-long holiday, giving flexibility for swim stops and longer lunch breaks.
Course Syllabus
The Yacht
Basic knowledge of sea terms, parts of a boat, her rigging and sails.
Ropework
Ability to tie four different knots, secure a rope to a cleat, and use winches and jamming cleats.
Underway
Experience sailing a yacht on all points of sail and steer under sail and power.
Rules of the Road
Keeping an efficient lookout at sea.
Meteorology
Know where and when to obtain a weather forecast.
Man Overboard Recovery
Understand the action to be taken to recover a man overboard.
Clothing & Equipment
Understand and comply with rules for wearing safety harnesses, lifejackets and personal buoyancy aids.
Emergency Equipment & Precautions
Awareness of hazards on board and actions to be taken in the event of an emergency.
Available At
Price Promise
As an independent company, we are able to keep our prices highly competitive. If you see a like-for-like product featured elsewhere cheaper, let us know and we will beat it.
This guarantee applies to tuition berth rates in Greece, Croatia and the UK operated by Seafarer, and is subject to availability at the time of booking.
We will not be beaten on price
Find it cheaper elsewhere and we’ll beat it — guaranteed.
ATOL Protected — Book with Confidence
If booking a flight-inclusive course, your trip is fully ATOL protected. We have been trading since 1995.
Book Your Course
Get in touch with our team to check availability in Greece, Croatia or the UK and find the right course for you.
