Sailing Courses for Beginners
It's exciting for beginners starting out in sailing, but deciding which course to take can feel like a challenge. Should you get out on the water with an introductory practical course or start with navigation theory in the classroom? Our beginner sailing courses include Competent Crew and Day Skipper Shore-based are designed to help you take your first steps, whatever your goals or the time of year.
RYA Competent Crew Course
The RYA Competent Crew practical course is an excellent introduction for beginners. The perfect starting point if you have done no sailing before.
Learn MoreRYA Competent Crew CourseRYA Day Skipper Theory Course
Learn how to navigate on the RYA Day Skipper Theory course in the classroom at our London or Southampton locations.
Learn MoreRYA Day Skipper Theory CourseRYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Online Theory Course
> Learn basic navigation and safety for RIB drivers, sea anglers, divers and dinghy sailors online with full telephone support from an instructor.
Learn MoreRYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Online Theory CourseOnline Day Skipper Theory Course
This online course covers navigation, collision regulations, safety and more. FCS also offers a Solent based Day Skipper practical course.
Learn MoreOnline Day Skipper Theory CourseBeginner Sailing Courses: Where to Start
Starting your sailing journey can feel overwhelming, but learning to sail is often easier than you think. If you’re new to sailing, your first step is choosing the right beginner’s sailing course.
For novices, there are two main options:
- Competent Crew: A practical, on-the-water course designed for those keen to experience sailing first-hand and learn the basics.
- Day Skipper Shore-based: A classroom-based course covering essential navigation and theory, ideal if you’re aiming to charter a yacht or plan to own a boat someday.
Choosing the Right Course:
- If it’s winter, we recommend starting with the Day Skipper Shore-based course—perfect for building your knowledge indoors before heading to the water.
- During the rest of the year, a 5-day Competent Crew course is a great way to dive straight into sailing and discover what life on the water is like.
For those eager for an introduction to sailing on a yacht, Competent Crew is the best starting point and our most basic hands-on course for beginners.
No matter which beginner course you choose, you’ll be on your way to gaining confidence and skills on the water.
Brilliant experience learning to sail
I did the competent crew course with my partner and had a brilliant learning experience. The boat was great - comfy cabins, galley was small but functional, and we managed to cook some lovely meals on board. The instructor was very knowledgeable, and handled a boat full of absolute beginners very well - he was kind, answered all our questions, and taught us so much. All in all, one of the best learning holidays I have ever been on, and I can't wait to return to improve my skills and progress at sailing!
Oenone S
Verified Customer
Sailing Courses for Beginners
As you embark on your journey of learning to sail you can expect from us:
- Fun, engaging, experienced and friendly instructors who love imparting their knowledge.
- Great boats. Yachts that are well maintained and with all the correct safety kit.
- Food! Our practical courses include all meals on board. Part of learning to sail is learning how to live onboard a yacht. So you get to do experience cooking in the galley.
- A helpful friendly office team keen to make your experience is brilliant in every way.
Sailing Courses for Beginners
