Sailing News

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

    To take the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore exams you need to have successfully sailed specific miles, of which half should be in tidal waters. Offshore requires experience of 2,500 miles, and Coastal requires 800 miles, therefore tidal miles of 1,250 and 400 should have been logged respectively.   The Yachtmaster scheme is Read more

Day Skipper on Your Own Boat: How it Works

Whilst most sailors will take our RYA courses on boats belonging to First Class Sailing, it is also possible to take Day Skipper on your own boat with our instructors. There are some things to consider including the safety equipment you have on board: here’s how it works. Doing Day Skipper on your own boat Read more

10 Reasons to Try Sailing for the First Time

If you’ve never set foot on a sailing yacht, you might be missing out on an incredible adventure that combines the thrill of the open water with escapism at its finest. In this article, we’ll explore 10 reasons to try sailing for the first time and join us on a Sailing Experience Day.

Day Skipper Theory and Practical Combined (Fast Track)

We are often asked whether it’s possible to take RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical combined. In effect, a fast track version of Day Skipper. The simple is, yes, we can. If you have browsed our list of RYA courses, you won’t see it a Day Skipper Fast Track (Theory and Practical combined) course, as Read more

Day Skipper Requirements & Prerequisites

Before you take the RYA Day Skipper course, there are certain requirements you must meet. The Day Skipper prerequisites are as follows. Requirements for starting RYA Day Skipper include having logged at least 5 days and 100 sailing miles of which no fewer than 4 hours should have been completed at night. For the Day Read more

How Long is Day Skipper Valid For?

First Class Sailing is one of the UK’s leading sailing schools, offering the range of RYA courses, including Day Skipper practical and theory. A common question we get asked is just how long the RYA Day Skipper qualification is valid for. Your Day Skipper qualification is valid forever. There is no expiry date on it. Read more

Day Skipper Weekend Courses Available with First Class Sailing

First Class Sailing is one of the UK’s leading sailing schools offering the full range of RYA Courses. One of our most popular is the Day Skipper Practical course which teaches basic pilotage, boat handling, seamanship, and navigation over five consecutive days. However, we understand that it’s not possible for everyone to commit to spending Read more

Sailing Health Benefits: Exercise & Muscle Strength

Sailing is a fun way in which you can get into shape, but that doesn’t mean it has to be physically demanding all the time. You can sail at different levels and start off slowly and at a pace to suit you. Sailing truly is an excellent way to improve your health. As you can Read more

Homestyle Cooking at Sea

    During our trips, whether it’s a sailing holiday or an RYA course, we understand the importance of serving homestyle cooking at sea, hearty and delicious meals that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring everyone on board is well-fed and satisfied.   Catering to Every Palate One of the key elements is Read more

Celebrating an Inspiring Journey: 94-Year-Old Alison Takes Control of Golden Vanity

A heart-warming story unfolded on the Solent as 94 year old Alison takes control of First Class Sailing’s iconic Golden Vanity yacht.