From £ 180
Lancashire, United Kingdom
From £ 699
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £ 1499
Hove
From £ 240
Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire, United Kingdom
From £ 205
Poole, Dorset
From £ 205
Napier Road
From £ 220
East Anglia, United Kingdom
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The Basic Skills course builds on the introductory Level 1 syllabus and expands your practical ability to sail a dinghy safely and efficiently. It combines on-the-water exercises with short theory sessions, all delivered in a supportive, hands-on environment.
While exact content may vary slightly between centres, all RYA-accredited providers follow the national syllabus. By the end of the course, you should be confident and safe sailing in light winds without an instructor onboard.
Completing RYA Level 2 qualifies you to hire small sailing dinghies at most clubs and centres, and to sail under supervision or independently in suitable conditions. You’ll be recognised as a competent sailor in light airs and will have the confidence to rig, launch, recover, and helm a dinghy without direct instruction.
This course also acts as a gateway to more advanced RYA modules, such as Seamanship Skills, Sailing with Spinnakers, or the RYA Day Sailing course. If you’re interested in racing, Level 2 is often a prerequisite for participating in club-level dinghy racing or joining more structured training like RYA Start Racing.
Whether you're planning to enjoy casual days on the water or aiming for more technical sailing, Level 2 is your stepping stone into a world of wind, water and endless skill development. With adventuro, you can explore hundreds of sailing lessons and next-level opportunities across the UK.
RYA Basic Skills - Level 2 is usually delivered over two consecutive days or over four half-day sessions, depending on the training centre. Expect around 12–16 hours of combined on-water and shoreside instruction, with plenty of time to practise each skill in varied conditions.
The RYA Basic Skills - Level 2 course is assessed continuously by your instructor throughout the two days of training. There’s no formal exam; instead, you’ll demonstrate your understanding by performing key manoeuvres such as tacking, gybing, and sailing on all points of sail under supervision. You’ll also need to show that you can rig and de-rig your boat, launch and recover safely, and recover from a capsize. Instructors provide feedback and guidance as you go, and most students complete the course successfully within the scheduled time. If needed, additional coaching is often available. Once completed, this certification shows you’re ready to sail in light winds without an instructor on board. You can find and book this course at centres across the UK on adventuro’s sailing pages.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesThis course builds on the RYA Level 1 syllabus and teaches you the skills to sail a small dinghy independently in light winds. Topics include rigging, launching and recovery, sailing upwind and downwind, tacking, gybing, man-overboard recovery, and basic rules of the road. You’ll also cover capsize recovery and learn how to choose suitable weather conditions for your ability.
It’s strongly recommended to complete RYA Level 1 before taking Level 2, especially if you’re new to sailing. That said, if you’ve got prior experience or have sailed regularly with friends or a club, some centres may let you join at Level 2 after an informal assessment. Always check with your chosen training centre first.
The RYA Basic Skills - Level 2 course typically runs over two full days, usually 9:30am to 5:00pm. Some centres offer it over three shorter days or across two weekends. The format can vary, but all accredited centres will meet the same learning outcomes set by the RYA.
You’ll usually train in small dinghies like the Laser Pico, RS Zest or Topper, depending on the centre. These boats are ideal for learning: they’re stable, responsive, and easy to rig. Some centres may also offer double-handed boats, especially if you’re training with a partner or group.
No formal test is required. Assessment is continuous—your instructor will observe your sailing throughout the course and provide feedback as you go. To pass, you’ll need to demonstrate safe and effective sailing skills, as outlined in the RYA syllabus.
Bring clothing suitable for getting wet, including a wetsuit or waterproofs, closed-toe footwear (like old trainers), sun protection, and a towel. Most centres provide buoyancy aids and boats, and some offer wetsuits and spray tops. Check with your centre for a full kit list before you go.
Once you’ve completed the course and demonstrated the required skills, you’ll receive the RYA Level 2 certificate. This qualification shows that you can sail a dinghy independently in light winds and is often a prerequisite for hiring boats or joining club racing.
Yes, many centres offer youth sailing courses with the same content but tailored instruction. The minimum recommended age is typically around 8 years, though this varies. Junior sailors are assessed in age-appropriate boats and under close supervision.
You can book directly through adventuro’s sailing pages, where we list a wide range of accredited sailing centres across the UK. Each listing includes details on course format, location, and equipment provided, so you can find one that suits your needs.
