Learn to sail
Choose a first course that matches the sailing you want to do. Start small at a local club, try a weekend on a yacht, or spend longer learning to be part of a crew.
Choose your starting point
Dinghy sailing
For learning in a small boat
Look for an introductory course at a club or training centre. RYA Dinghy Level 1 is called Start Sailing. This route suits learning the fundamentals close to the water, with opportunities to practise locally.
Start Yachting
For a first taste of yacht sailing
A short introduction to sail cruising for novices. Consider it if you want to experience sailing a yacht and being aboard before choosing a longer course.
Competent Crew
For building practical crew skills
A beginner-friendly route into taking an active role aboard a cruising yacht. Consider it if you want more time to learn the jobs of a crew member and get used to life aboard.
Course pathways: RYA sail cruising and RYA dinghy sailing. Our listings cover the courses and dates supplied by connected providers, rather than every introductory lesson.
Plan your first sailing course
Sailing tips that make the boat make sense
Practical beginner sailing tips for reading relative movement, watching the wind, handling lines, using fenders and becoming a more useful crew member.
Read the guide →Do you still need Competent Crew?
Spent a week aboard and know fenders, lines and basic jobs? See what RYA Competent Crew adds, when it is still useful and when to ask about another course.
Read the guide →Dinghy sailing or yacht sailing?
Compare learning in a dinghy with learning on a sailing yacht: handling, teamwork, course formats, costs and which route fits what you want to do.
Read the guide →Your first sailing course
New to sailing? Compare dinghy lessons, Start Yachting and Competent Crew, and find a practical route from your first sail to regular practice.
Read the guide →The cost of learning to sail
Compare the full cost of sailing lessons: tuition, accommodation, equipment, travel and extras. Use current provider prices to plan your first course.
Read the guide →Learn near home or make a trip of it
A nearby school makes it easier to return for practice. A sailing trip gives you a block of time to focus on learning. Compare the actual joining marina, travel time and course format before deciding. A holiday package may combine several activities, so check how much sailing tuition it includes.