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RYA Start Sailing Course (Level 1)
RYA Level 1 – Start Sailing
Scammonden Water Sailing Club
Your first step into sailing.
Our 2-day RYA Level 1 course is the perfect introduction to dinghy sailing for complete beginners. It’s the first stage in the Royal Yachting Association training scheme and is designed to give you the confidence to get afloat in light winds under the supervision of an instructor.
During the course, you’ll learn how to:
- Rig and launch a dinghy
- Steer and control speed using the tiller and mainsheet
- Sail in all directions, including upwind and downwind
- Tack and come ashore safely
- Recover from a capsize
- Understand basic sailing theory, weather, and safety
We use Laser Picos and Wayfarers for training, giving you experience in both single-handed and double-handed boats.
By the end of the course, you will be able to sail safely under supervision and be ready to progress to RYA Level 2 (Basic Skills).
Course Format
- Duration: 2 days (min. 16 hours)
- Time: 09:45 – 16:30 each day (arrive by 09:30)
- Location: Scammonden Reservoir, Huddersfield
- Instructors: RYA-qualified, friendly, and supportive
- Learning style: Hands-on water sessions with short, engaging shore-based theory
What’s Included
- Use of club boats, buoyancy aids, and safety cover
- RYA Start Sailing workbook and certificate (on successful completion)
- Tea and coffee throughout the day
What to Bring
- Trainers or wetsuit boots (with socks) that can get wet
- Comfortable bottoms (leggings/joggers – no denim)
- Warm jumper/fleece and old t-shirt
- Swimwear (under wetsuit/clothes)
- Windproof top (cagoule or spray top)
- Hat (sun or warm, depending on weather)
- Spare dry clothes (including socks)
- Packed lunch & drinks
- Pens and paper
Key Contacts
Sally Ratcliffe
SWSC Training Centre Principal and CI
sallyratcliffe1464@gmail.com