Training Course Information
What is the RYA Start Yachting Course?
Whether you’re completely new to yacht sailing or just eager to get a taste of life on the water, the RYA Start Yachting course is the perfect entry point. This two-day experience is designed for those with little or no previous sailing knowledge—think of it as dipping your toes in before taking the plunge!
You’ll join a small group (maximum of four students) for a hands-on introduction to all things yachting. Over the weekend or midweek, you’ll learn the essentials: basic ropework, how to handle a yacht both under sail and engine power, and the crucial safety know-how every sailor needs. Expect to unravel boating jargon, identify parts of the yacht, and try your hand at steering, sail trimming, and even practicing those all-important knots.
What’s more, your learning doesn’t stop at sunset—the course includes a night aboard your training yacht at Premier Marina Gosport, giving you a true taste of onboard living. By the end, you’ll have a solid foundation in yacht sailing, a dash of sea lore, and, quite possibly, the sailing bug!
Joining Instructions: Please click here for training course joining instructions
What is included in the training course cost:
- Yacht hire
- RYA Qualified Instructor
- RYA training course materials and certificates
- Breakfast, lunches, snacks and one evening meal
- Tea, coffee & soft drinks
- Accommodation on board
- Diesel
- Cooking gas
- Wet weather kit hire (not footwear)
- Hire of a Baltic automatic life jacket
We can accommodate most dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian or gluten free. Just let us know when you fill out the booking form.
Recommended Reading
Looking to get a head start before your course? We suggest picking up a copy of RYA Yacht Sailing Techniques G84 (approx. £15). It’s a helpful resource that covers essential skills and is a solid companion for both new and aspiring sailors. This book complements the practical experience you’ll gain and can serve as a handy reference long after your weekend out on the water.
Prerequisites
No previous sailing experience or prior knowledge is needed to join this course—the RYA Start Yachting programme is designed specifically for complete beginners. Whether you’re brand new to boating or just looking to refresh the basics, all are welcome to take part.
Age Requirements
Participants must be at least 8 years old to enrol in this course. If you’re under 18, you’ll need to attend with a parent or guardian—so it’s a fantastic opportunity for family members to enjoy learning together on the water.
Holiday Insurance: We would advise ALL our customers to ensure they have suitable holiday insurance in-place. Yachtsman’s insurance is available from a variety of souces like Topsail Insurance and can cover things like cancellations and personal effects cover.
Important Safety Information
Please note that all events—including the RYA Start Yachting course—are planned with your safety firmly in mind. Activities may be adjusted to suit prevailing weather and tidal conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone onboard. Our instructors continually monitor forecasts and local conditions, making real-time decisions as necessary. The welfare of our students remains our top priority at every stage of the course.
What You’ll Learn
The RYA Start Yachting course offers a friendly and hands-on introduction to life afloat. Whether you’re new to sailing or just brushing up on the basics, you’ll find plenty of practical know-how packed into these sessions.
Key skills and topics include:
- Understanding essential nautical terms and getting to know the key parts of a sailing yacht
- Mastering basic ropework and learning handy knots that you’ll actually use
- Handling the boat’s controls with confidence—everything from winches to jammers
- Discovering the essentials of clothing and safety equipment, so you’re prepared for every situation
- Learning how to respond in emergencies, including man overboard drills
- Getting to grips with the “rules of the road” on the water
- An introduction to weather basics, so you know when to grab your shades or your raincoat
Of course, you won’t just be talking about sailing—you’ll spend plenty of time on the water, learning how to steer and control the yacht both under sail and under power.
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