Get OnBoard
Start your adventure on the water today
What is RYA OnBoard?
OnBoard is the RYA’s grassroots junior sailing and windsurfing programme, offering young people the opportunity to explore life on the water through their local club or centre.
Open to all, OnBoard is a safe and inclusive beginner programme where getting on the water for the first time is easy. No previous experience or equipment is needed – just a willingness to give it a go.
With plenty of fresh air, adventure, and fun, OnBoard helps young people stay active, build confidence and develop new skills in a supportive and encouraging environment.
OnBoard has introduced over 1.3 million children to sailing and windsurfing
OnBoard helped 82% of children and young people feel better able to work as a team
81% of children and young people felt more confident in themselves with OnBoard
Orson's first OnBoard session
Frequently asked questions
Most children start from around age 8, but many clubs and centres welcome younger children for their first session. OnBoard goes right the way up to age 18.
An OnBoard session often costs less than you’d think – many clubs offer low-cost taster session and affordable options for junior memberships. Exact costs vary between training centres.
A typical starter session is around 2 – 4 hours including getting ready on land. Some sailing courses, such as RYA Stage 1, usually run over two days.
Sailing can be challenging at first, but that’s what makes it so rewarding. Sessions are tailored for complete beginners and use specially designed children’s boats that are safe, stable, and easy to handle.
The programme is progressive, so you can start as a complete novice at RYA Stage 1 and work your way up through the RYA Youth Schemes.
Most beginner sessions include all sailing equipment you need, such as boats, buoyancy aids, and wetsuits. You’ll usually just need to bring a towel, a change of clothes, and shoes that can get wet.
Simply bring yourself, training centres will be able to provide the equipment needed for your session. However, depending on your session type, the RYA has some helpful advice on what to wear to your session.
Ready to get started?
Find your nearest RYA OnBoard provider using our Where’s My Nearest tool:
