Sailing News
All the latest news from the world of sailing and stories from experienced sailors.
We’ve noticed that a few people on social media and on web forums ask whether the RYA Competent Crew course is worth it. The main driver behind these comments seems to relate to price and what you get from a 5 day Competent Crew course. As you know, we have skin in… Read more
Can You Do Day Skipper Online?
It’s possible to take the RYA Day Skipper theory course online with First Class Sailing. The online version of the Day Skipper course gives you the freedom to learn about navigating a sailing yacht or motor cruiser, but in your own time, and from wherever you want. All you need is a computer… Read more
RYA Lost Certificate: How to Get a Replacement
If you have lost or damaged an RYA certificate then you should contact the RYA Training Centre with whom you took your course.. They can then advise you on the best route to get a replacement. There are two ways in which you can get an RYA replacement certificate, and the option you… Read more
How Far Offshore Can a Day Skipper Go?
The RYA Day Skipper qualification gives you the skills you need to skipper a yacht in familiar waters by day. It’s a practical course set over five days, and when taken with First Class Sailing takes place in the Solent. One of the most common questions asked by aspiring Day Skippers or… Read more
What is Day Skipper Theory?
The RYA Day Skipper Theory course is your guide to mastering chartwork, navigation, weather forecasting, and the basics of seamanship.
Discover the Thrill of the Taittinger Regatta
The Taittinger Regatta is not just a sailing competition; it has a vibrant spirit of camaraderie and a buzzing social scene. Held annually in the picturesque setting of Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight, this event has become very popular in the sailing community.
Do You Need a License to Drive a Boat?
One of the most common questions we’re asked by people interested in our beginner sailing lessons, is whether they will need a license to drive a boat. Here’s all you need to know about sailing a boat with or without a license… Do you need a license to drive a boat? … Read more
How to Prepare for Day Skipper
Many students ask us how to best prepare themselves for the RYA Day Skipper practical and theory courses. To take the Day Skipper practical course you first of all have to do the Day Skipper shorebased theory course or at least have knowledge to the same level as if you had done the… Read more
How Long is the Competent Crew Course?
The RYA Competent Crew course is 5 days long, which can be taken either over consecutive days in one go, or it can be split over 2 weekends consisting, one of which will include a Friday. The Competent Crew course starts from our Southampton HQ and takes place in the Solent. The… Read more
Is the Mediterranean Tidal?
Prerequisites for the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore exams include an amount of tidal miles. At least 400 for the YMC and 1250nm for the Offshore. If all your sailing has been in UK waters then you can consider all of your miles as tidal. But what about if sailing in the… Read more
