Learn to sail with the RYA
If living on board, cruising the coast or sailing offshore appeals to you, why not give sail cruising a go?
Cruising yachts have accommodation and cooking facilities, offering a degree of comfort whilst spending time afloat. How far you venture is up to you.
Whether you are a first-timer wanting to be a useful crew member, or a more experienced skipper wanting to expand your skills, there is an RYA course for you.
RYA Sail Cruising Scheme
The scheme comprises a series of practical courses, complemented by our navigation and other specialist short courses. You can use them simply to increase your knowledge and confidence, or as a progression to the RYA/MCA Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide (see the feature on the left).
The ideal introduction is the two-day Start Yachting course. Following that, courses generally take place over five days, or a series of weekends.
You can enter our programme at any level, provided that you have the correct level of experience beforehand. Be realistic when assessing your current experience and abilities and, if in doubt, discuss your requirements with your chosen training centre before booking your course.
For further details, choose a course from the list on the left of your screen.
Cruising abroad
If you want to cruise outside the UK you are likely to need certification, often in the form of the International Certificate of Competence. You should also be aware of the local requirements for skippers, boats and licences wherever you go and, if possible, take with you translations of the certificates that you hold.
Use the links below to research the countries you wish to visit.
