Introduction
Learn to sail with the RYA
If living on board, cruising the coast or sailing offshore appeals to you, why not give sail cruising a go?
Cruising yachts have accommodation and cooking facilities, offering a degree of comfort whilst spending time afloat. How far you venture is up to you.
Whether you are a first-timer wanting to be a useful crew member, or a more experienced skipper wanting to expand your skills, there is an RYA course for you.
Practical sail cruising courses
The scheme comprises the series of practical courses below, complemented by our navigation and other specialist short courses. You can use them simply to increase your knowledge and confidence, or as a progression to the RYA/MCA Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide.
|
An introduction to sail cruising for novices |
A course for those wanting to be active crew members, not just passengers |
Take charge on short passages under instruction |
Skipper more challenging passages by day and night |
| Pre-course experience |
None |
None |
5 days, 100 miles, 4 night hours on board a sailing yacht |
15 days, 2 days as skipper, 300 miles, 8 night hours |
| Assumed knowledge |
None |
None |
Basic navigation and helmsmanship. It is recommended you attend the Day Skipper shorebased course beforehand |
Boat handling to the standard of Day Skipper and navigation to shorebased Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster standard |
| Minimum duration |
2 days |
5 days. Often run over 3 weekends or 3 days plus a weekend. If you have done the Start Yachting course, this course can be completed in 3 or 4 days |
5 days, either as 3 weekends or 3 days plus 2 days |
5 days |
| Minimum age |
None |
None |
16 |
17 |
| Course content |
Steering a yacht, sail handling, ropework, safety on board |
Basic seamanship and helmsmanship |
Pilotage, boat handlings, seamanship and navigation |
Passage planning, pilotage by day and night, boat handling, safety and emergency situations |
| Ability after course |
Basic knowledge of yachting. Reduces the time needed to complete the Competent Crew course |
Able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout, row a dinghy and assist in all the day to day routines |
Able to skipper a small yacht in familiar waters by day |
Able to skipper a yacht on coastal passages by day and night |