RYA Level 1 & 2 Start Sailing & Basic Skills - 2025  

Royal Yachting Association National Sailing Scheme

Start Sailing & Basic Skills (Level 1 - 2) 

This training course is aimed at complete beginners aged 18 to 68, but if you have not sailed for many years or just want a refresher, you are also welcome.

The introduction is on a Thursday evening in the lounge bar. The practice and theory session are all on weekends, dates and times as shown below. 

Dates:  

Equipment/Clothing - Students are required to provide their own buoyancy aids, wet suits and windproof/waterproof clothing. Buoyancy aids must comply with EN 393/ISO 12402-5 at the 50 Newton level. They should fit the user securely so that, once immersed, they do not slide up the body of the user. Crotch straps should be used if appropriate. Buoyancy aids will be checked to ensure they meet these standards. Any queries on clothing or personal flotation devices should be directed to the CI Sailing via RYAAdmin@seafarers-sailing-club.org.uk

Assessment - Students will be assessed continuously during the course.

Capsize Righting - Having practical knowledge of how to right a capsized dinghy is a requirement of the course. Capsize righting drills are dependent on appropriate wind and sea conditions. For this reason, the drills cannot be programmed in advance. The Instructional team will select an appropriate time during the course and, following a thorough, on-shore briefing, will conduct the drills with each student. 

Inclement weather - If sailing is cancelled or postponed, the opportunity will be taken to cover relevant aspects of shore training.  

Certificates - On completion of the course students will be awarded certificates appropriate to the level they have achieved, stage 1 or Stage 1 & 2. 

Fees - The standard cost of the course is £90 which includes an RYA Start Sailing Handbook and RYA syllabus and Logbook. If you already have them then the fee is £85. Select the reduced 'no handbook & Logbook' fee. You will be required to have both with you during the course.  

Training Course Cancellation Policy - Applications will not be confirmed until the relevant course fee has been paid. Applicants who cancel their booking more than 7 days before the course start date will have their course fee refunded in full. Applicants who cancel their booking less than 7 days before the course start date will not normally have their fee refunded. In special cases applicants may seek a refund by writing to the Training Secretary. In all cases the decision of the RYA Principal will be final.  

Applicants should note that Joining fees and Membership fees are dealt with by the Membership Secretary in accordance with Section 3 of the Club Rules.  

Location: Seafarers Sailing Club

Contact: RYA Admin