Sailing News
All the latest news from the world of sailing and stories from experienced sailors.
The RYA Day Skipper course is one of the most popular we run from Southampton. Whilst most of what you need to know is set out on the course page (including the latest prices) there are some questions we are often asked about both the Practical and Theory courses. Here are just a few of… Read more
What Does Day Skipper Allow You to Do?
The RYA Day Skipper practical course from Southampton is for aspiring skippers and the perfect next step for those that have completed Competent Crew. But what exactly does RYA Day Skipper allow you to do, and what can a Day Skipper do once qualified. RYA Day Skipper allows you to charter a yacht, as once… Read more
Can You Charter a Yacht with Day Skipper?
If you’re considering a holiday where you can charter a yacht for the day, or perhaps looking to get out on the water over a weekend at home, it’s important to understand the qualifications you will need. While you may have some sailing experience from spending a few hours on boats in recent years, telling… Read more
Is Sailing Dangerous? (Statistics & Safety Tips)
One thing that often holds people back from signing up for sailing lessons is a fear of the sea and open water. Whilst it would be ridiculous for us to say there are no risks involved, the dangers of sailing are greatly reduced if you have proper training, equipment, and your own common sense. In… Read more
Difference Between Day Skipper vs Coastal Skipper?
First Class Sailing has been teaching people how to sail for over twenty years. Thousands of students have taken courses with us, including RYA Day Skipper and RYA Coastal Skipper. This short guide will explain the key differences between the RYA Day Skipper and RYA Coastal Skipper courses, and why we recommend this progression in your… Read more
How Much Mileage Do You Need for Yachtmaster Coastal & Offshore?
The aim of the Yachtmaster Coastal and Yachtmaster Offshore courses is to prepare already experienced sailors for the MCA/RYA Certificate of Competence exam. The courses are not structured around a fixed syllabus but instead give you the chance to hone your sailing skills in preparation for the exam. But before you sign up to either… Read more
Is Sailing Physically Demanding?
Have you ever dreamed of learning to sail, and all the freedom and excitement that can bring you, but then wondered whether you were physically up to the challenge? Or maybe you’ve tried sailing before and found yourself exhausted after a short time on the water. Based on this, you might ask yourself whether sailing… Read more
Competent Crew Course (Lymington Stop)
Our RYA Competent Crew course leaves from Southampton, and includes sailing into Lymington, just a twenty mile journey away. It’s an ideal hands-on introduction for beginners and so makes the perfect choice if you have limited sailing experience. Not only will the Competent Crew Course take you to Lymington, but also several other stops in… Read more
What to Pack for Competent Crew? (Gear List)
If you’ve signed up to a RYA Competent Crew and are not sure what to bring, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Below is a comprehensive list of what to pack and bring for the Competent Crew course. Our course takes place off the Isle of Wight, which means the weather is typically mild. But… Read more
What is the Minimum Age for Competent Crew?
Our Competent Crew course is perfect for beginners new to sailing who wish to sail as a crew member, and not just as a passenger. The course starts and finishes in Southampton and takes place in and around the Solent, and at the end of the five days you will be a useful crew member. We… Read more
