This 2 day course RYA small boat start sailing level 1 course provides a short introduction to sailing for adult novices aged over 14 years of age. By the end of the course , students will have a basic understanding of keelboat handling techniques and basic background knowledge. It is recommended that all participants strengthen this short introduction course with the RYA Start Sailing Level 2 course.
Instruction is provided by RYA keelboat instructors, using appropriate supervision ratios never exceeding 4 students per boat. Students will be kept informed of their individual progress throughout the course as the course is completed via ongoing assessment.
The course can be booked via our online booking system which shows live availability. We also offer free accommodation via our online booking system on a first come first served basis.
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Section A - Practical On Water
Rigging
Knowledge of spars and rigging, parts of the sail and sail controls
Ropework
Can tie a figure of eight knot, round turn half hitches and secure a rope to a cleat
Sailing Techniques and Manoeuvres
Has wind awareness
Has a practical understanding of the following manoeuvres:
Reaching - sailing across the wind
Stopping - lying-to
Controlling speed
Tacking - turning the front of the boat through the wind
Getting out of irons
Sailing upwind
Sailing downwind
Gybing - turning the back of the boat through the wind
Launching and Recovery/Departure and Arrival
Understands the principles of: Leaving the shore/mooring, Returning to shore/mooring, Wind awareness ashore
Section B - Classroom Teaching
Sailing Theory and Background
Has awareness of other water users
Has basic knowledge of rules of road - power versus sail, port versus starboard, overtaking boat, windward boat
Meteorology
Has awareness of onshore and offshore winds. Knows sources of weather information
Man Overboard Recovery
Understands action to be taken to recover a man overboard
Emergency Equipment and Precautions
Awareness of potential hazards of fuel and gas, Has knowledge of stowage and use of fire extinguishers