RYA Start Yachting

Get started with sailing on our RYA Start Yachting course, designed for complete beginners. This 2-day introductory program offers hands-on experience aboard a cruising yacht.

Course Highlights:

• Learn the Basics: Discover yacht steering, sail handling, and rope work with our expert instructors.
• Safety First: Gain essential safety awareness to ensure the best sailing experience.
• Weekend Adventure: The course begins on a Friday evening, and you'll set sail the following day.
• Onboard Comfort: Stay onboard for the entire course, enjoying well-equipped yachts and provided meals.
• Teamwork: Collaborate with fellow crew members to navigate the yacht and share the adventure.
• Scenic Beauty: Sail along local rivers and coastlines, experiencing stunning scenery.

Start your yachting journey with us and book your spot today for an unforgettable sailing experience.

 ****Late availability 1 place only on a 3 day course 7/8/9 June - call the office to book****

What's Included:

• Instruction: You'll receive coaching covering the entire RYA course syllabus while living aboard one of our school-owned yachts.
• Meals Included: Enjoy all-inclusive meals throughout the course, including a nourishing home-cooked evening meal—perfect for replenishing your energy after a day of sailing and learning.
• Onboard Accommodation: You'll stay on board the yacht during the course. Be sure to bring your sleeping bag, and anticipate overnight stays at other local marinas.
• Convenient Parking: Parking facilities are available at Suffolk Yacht Harbour, ensuring hassle-free access to our location.
• Inclusive Fees: Your course covers all mooring fees, safety equipment, fuel, and expert tuition from our experienced RYA instructors.
• Teaching ratio: Benefit from a maximum teaching ratio of 4 students to 1 instructor, ensuring personalized attention and guidance.
• Course Language: English

Enjoy a comprehensive and hassle-free learning experience with all these inclusions as part of your course.

One weekend commencing at 2030 hours on Friday and ending Sunday afternoon, available most weekends from March to October.

RYA Start Yachting Practical Certificate.

Holders of a Start Yachting certificate can go on to obtain a Competent Crew certificate by completing a further 3 days or 2 weekends of the Competent Crew course. This Start Yachting course will provide you with a good foundation for many years of happy and confident cruising.

If the weather is not looking great or is forecast to be a bit chilly or windy you can hire wet weather gear from us.

Musto Waterproofs available in S, M, L, XL and XXL. £22.00 for the weekend.

You are expected to bring the following comfort pack items with you; however if you don't want to bring your best duck down pillow or you haven't got a sleeping bag, don't worry you can hire a comfort pack from us!

A Comfort Pack comprises of a freshly laundered sleeping bag with liner, pillow, pillow case and towel. £16.00 for the weekend.

The Yacht

Basic knowledge of sea terms, parts of a boat, her rigging and sails

Ropework

Understands how to tie a bowline

Can tie the following knots:

• Figure of eight
• Round turn
• Two half hitches

Can secure a rope to a cleat 

Can use winches and jamming cleats

Underway

Has experienced sailing a yacht on all points of sail

Can steer a yacht under power and sail

Rules of the road

Can keep an efficient lookout at sea

Meteorology

Understands where to obtain a weather forecast

Man overboard recovery

Understands the action to be taken to recover a man overboard

The effects of cold-water shock on a casulty 

Clothing and equipment

Understands and complies with the rules for the wearing of life jackets, safety harnesses and personal buoyancy aids

Emergency equipment and precautions

Is aware of the hazards on board a yacht

Knows the action to be taken in the event of an emergency