Sailing News
All the latest news from the world of sailing and stories from experienced sailors.
We don’t believe there are many things you can do in life that can beat one of our sailing experience days from or to the Isle of Wight. On this fun-filled day you will experience the joys of sailing on a classic boat that’s over one hundred years old. When you book with First Class… Read more
Sailing on the Solent: Start with First Class Sailing
The Solent is a beautiful stretch of water that lies between the south coast of England and the Isle of Wight. With its stunning coastline, picturesque harbours, and breath-taking views, the Solent is a sailing paradise. Sailing on the Solent either as an experienced sailor, or as a beginner taking lessons, offers an incredible and… Read more
Day Skipper Practical Syllabus (Explained)
Our 5-day Day Skipper Practical Course syllabus is designed for aspiring skippers who want the qualification, knowledge, and skills you need to be skipper on a yacht charter. To enrol in this course, you must have either completed a Competent Crew Course or have the equivalent level of competency (click here for availability). Additionally, you… Read more
FAQs on the RYA Day Skipper Course
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? RYA Day Skipper allows you to charter a yacht, as once qualified, it shows you can competently manage a 30… 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
What is the Difference Between Day Skipper and 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… 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
