Stepping into the world of sailing for the first time is exciting and exhilarating. The courses in the RYA Yachtmaster training scheme will help you learn to sail and build confidence, become a useful crew member and even learn how to skipper a sailing yacht and manage it’s crew.
Most courses can be taken either on your own or with friends and family, including children provided they meet our minimum age recommendations. There are also flexible options allowing you to do the course in one go or split over several days or weekends.
Our sail cruising courses can also help you progress to the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide and can be commercially endorsed for professional skippers and crew.
So whether you’re new to boat ownership, want to charter a yacht on holiday, or to venture further offshore – there’s an RYA course for every level.
Our practical on-the-water courses build confidence, teaching you everything from basic terminology and safety tips to how to skipper a yacht and manage its crew. You can enter at any level, provided you have the correct level of experience.
Cruising Level 1 - An entry level course focusing on the principles of sailing a yacht. Can be run in conjunction with the Basic Skills course.
A short introduction to sailing for complete beginners.
Cruising Level 2 - Build on the skills gained during Start Sailing, Competent Crew or Day Skipper, focusing on sailing techniques as both crew and helm.
A hands-on course for anyone interested in becoming a useful crew member.
A course for aspiring skippers with some yachting experience and basic navigation and sailing skills.
Advanced skippering techniques for those with considerable knowledge of sailing and navigation, wanting to undertake coastal passages by day and night.
A basic introduction to navigation for new skippers, crew or anyone interested in getting out on the water.
A more comprehensive course recommended for inexperienced skippers and anyone thinking of doing the Day Skipper practical course.
Take your theory knowledge to the standard required for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore practical exams.
Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, using a sextant, ocean passage planning, worldwide meteorology and electronic navigation aids.
Get qualified to use a handheld or fixed marine VHF radio with our course and exam.
From first aid to diesel engine, there are a number of related classroom and online courses you may find useful as you develop your knowledge.
You are capable of coastal passages
You are competent to undertake passages up to 150 miles offshore
You have the knowledge and experience to sail worldwide
Sailing is great fun for all ages and there are plenty of opportunities for young people to get involved. Check our course descriptions for minimum age recommendations.
If you want to cruise outside of the UK you are likely to need an ICC. RYA course completion certificates can be used as evidence of your competence.
Find out more about commercial endorsements, professional qualifications and what it takes to work on the water.