Sailing News

All the latest news from the world of sailing and stories from experienced sailors.

Check out our infographic on Three Steps to Skippering a Yacht in the Med. 

International Certificate of Competence

The RYA International Certificate of Competence

14 Great Reasons to Book a Sailing Course or Sailing Holiday with First Class Sailing

First Class Sailing’s sailing area on the South Coast is mainly the Solent area which is a fantastic place to sail. It is one of the best places to learn to sail in the world, for a number of reasons. 

Winter Sailing Holidays with First Class Sailing

    We offer sailing courses throughout the year, including in the colder months. It’s possible to choose a course that takes place over 5 days. Or perhaps you might opt for a 7 day mile building trip in the Channel? The point is, any one of our courses is a break from your daily Read more

Is Competent Crew Worth It?

    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

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