RYA Start Yachting

This excellent RYA course provides a short introduction to yacht sailing for those who have never sailed before. It is a relaxed and fun 2 day course ideal for those who are new to sailing who want to learn a little more. The short course aims to introduce many aspects of sailing and you will learn some of the skills required to be useful crew on a yacht anywhere in the world.

You do not need any previous sailing experience and it is an excellent introduction to the RYA training scheme. It provides an opportunity to be involved in handling the boat under sail and power, knots and rope handling, sailing terms, points of sail, safety and much more.

Once you have completed the course your Instructor will sign your logbook to enable you to keep a record of your sea miles and syllabus completed. On successful completion of your RYA Start Yachting Course you will also receive an official RYA certificate. The course completion certificate is included in the cost of your course.

RYA Start Yachting Course Syllabus

The RYA course provides a short introduction to sail cruising for beginners. By the end of the course you will have had a go at steering the yacht, sail handling, ropework and have learned about safety on board. If you’ve enjoyed the RYA Start Yachting course you can go on to gain your RYA Competent Crew certificate.

Experience needed: None required

Following Course:    RYA Competent Crew

Minimum age: 12 years old

The yacht

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

Ropework

Ability to tie the following knots: figure of eight, round turn and two half hitches, bowline
Securing a rope to a cleat
Use of winches and jamming cleats

Underway

Has experienced sailing a yacht on all points of sail
Can steer a yacht under sail or power

Rules of the Road

Can keep an efficient lookout at sea

Meteorology

Knows where to obtain a weather forecast

Man Overboard recovery

Understands the action to be taken to recover a man overboard

Clothing and equipment

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

Emergency equipment and precautions

Is aware of hazards on board a yacht
Knows the action to be taken in the event of an emergency

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