RYA Level 1 (Start Sailing)
Your journey into the world of sailing starts here!
Have you ever dreamed of gliding across the water, feeling the wind in your sails, and having the freedom to explore? Whether you want to race on a Wednesday night, enjoy relaxed weekend sailing, or even set off on a Caribbean sailing holiday one day, the RYA Level 1 - Start Sailing course is the perfect place to begin.
This introductory course is designed for complete beginners and provides the essential skills needed to get you sailing confidently under supervision. Taught by our RYA-qualified instructors in a safe and friendly environment, this course will give you the perfect foundation to develop your skills and love for the sport. No experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!
Prerequisite: No prior experience required
Duration: 2 days
Ages: Adults and Youth (16+). Junior sailors follow learn to sail through our Junior Sailing Scheme
What you'll learn (Syllabus):
- Boat Familiarisation & Rigging Learn the parts of the boat, how to rig and de-rig a dinghy, and understand basic sail controls.
- Launching & Recovery Gain confidence in getting a boat safely into and out of the water.
- Basic Boat Handling Learn how to steer, control the sails, and adjust your position in the boat for stability.
- Tacking & Gybing Understand and practice turning the boat efficiently through the wind.
- Sailing in Different Directions Learn how to sail across the wind, upwind (towards the wind), and downwind (away from the wind).
- Basic Safety & Weather Awareness Get an introduction to weather conditions, wind direction, and key safety procedures.
- Capsize Recovery Demonstration Learn the basics of how to recover from a capsize in a safe and controlled way.
What the course enables you to do
- Sail Under Supervision By the end of the course, you'll have the basic skills to handle a dinghy and sail in light winds under the guidance of an instructor or experienced sailor.
- Build Confidence on the Water You'll gain an understanding of how to control a boat, what to do in different wind conditions, and how to stay safe while sailing.
- Progress to RYA Level 2 After completing Level 1, you can move on to RYA Level 2 (Basic Skills), which will develop your independence and sailing ability.
- Enjoy a Fantastic New Sport! Sailing is a lifelong skill that opens the door to exciting new experiences, from club racing and cruising to global adventures on the water.
- Whether you're looking to race, cruise, or simply enjoy time on the water, the RYA Level 1 course is the first step in an incredible journey. Elton Sailing Club offers a welcoming environment with plenty of opportunities to continue developing your skills after the course.
Ready to start your adventure? Book your place on the RYA Level 1 course today!
Related
- 2025 RYA Level 1 : Course 1 Day 1 (17 May, 09:00 - 16:30)
- 2025 RYA Level 1 : Course 1 Day 2 (18 May, 09:00 - 16:30)
Last updated 1:22pm on 14 March 2025
