From £ 205
Poole, Dorset
From £ 350
Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £ 180
Chorley, Lancashire
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The RYA Better Sailing (Level 3) course aims to refine and consolidate your sailing skills following RYA Level 2. It focuses on improving technique, introducing new manoeuvres and building confidence in decision-making while afloat. The course is flexible and allows instructors to tailor content to suit the group’s needs and local conditions.
This is a non-certificated course, but continuous assessment is used throughout. Instructors provide regular feedback to help you progress and identify next steps in your sailing journey.
Exact content may vary depending on the centre, type of boat, and prevailing conditions. All RYA-accredited centres aim to deliver the core learning outcomes while adapting to local environments and student needs.
Completing RYA Better Sailing (Level 3) gives you the confidence and competence to sail more independently and make informed decisions afloat. You’ll leave the course with improved boat handling, a deeper understanding of sailing conditions, and the ability to tailor your technique to different craft types and weather scenarios. This course is a stepping stone to more specialised modules in the RYA National Sailing Scheme, such as Seamanship Skills, Start Racing, and Sailing with Spinnakers.
It’s also ideal preparation for joining a sailing club, participating in informal racing, or taking on more challenging waters. Better Sailing doesn’t result in a formal qualification in itself, but it’s widely recognised within the RYA scheme as a valuable consolidation phase. Whether you're aiming to become an instructor, cruise solo, or simply enjoy more dynamic days on the water, this course helps lay the groundwork for confident, independent sailing. And remember, adventuro makes it easy to find your next adventure—whether that’s a spinnaker course, club membership, or a solo dinghy rental.
RYA Better Sailing (Level 3) is typically run over two full days, or a series of shorter sessions depending on the centre. Expect around 12–15 hours of instruction, with a mix of on-water coaching, briefings and debriefs. Centres may adapt the schedule based on weather and group ability, but the focus remains on giving you plenty of time afloat to refine your skills.
The RYA Better Sailing (Level 3) course is an instructor-assessed programme focused on consolidating your sailing skills and boosting your confidence on the water. Rather than a formal test, the assessment is continuous and practical. Your instructor will observe your ability to sail independently, make good decisions based on wind and tide, and carry out manoeuvres with control and efficiency. You’ll be expected to demonstrate smooth tacks and gybes, effective use of sail trim, and competent capsize recovery. The emphasis is on safe, controlled sailing and understanding how to apply core techniques in more challenging conditions. The instructor will offer feedback and coaching throughout. Once you're consistently handling the boat with confidence, you'll receive your Level 3 certificate. You can browse and book this course at centres across the UK via adventuro's booking pages.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesRYA Better Sailing, also known as Level 3, is designed to bridge the gap between basic training and more advanced modules like Seamanship Skills or Start Racing. It helps you refine your technique and become more confident sailing independently. The course is largely practical and includes coaching in areas like sail trim, boat balance, and decision-making on the water.
Yes, you’ll need to have completed RYA Level 2 (Basic Skills) or be able to demonstrate equivalent ability. This means you should already be able to rig, launch, sail in all directions, and recover a dinghy in light to moderate conditions. Level 3 is not suitable for total beginners.
You’ll refine existing skills like tacking, gybing, and sail setting, and start applying them more efficiently. You’ll also focus on boat handling in stronger winds, improving your upwind and downwind performance, and making better decisions as skipper. Some centres also introduce basic race technique or seamanship skills depending on conditions and participant interest.
The RYA Better Sailing course typically runs over two days of practical, on-the-water instruction. Some centres may offer it over several evenings or as part of a longer training programme. Check individual listings on adventuro to find the format that suits you.
No formal exam is required. Assessment is continuous and based on your ability to sail confidently and safely. Instructors will give coaching and feedback throughout, helping you improve as you go. You’ll receive your certificate once you meet the course standards consistently by the end.
Some centres may allow you to use your own dinghy, depending on its suitability and safety features. However, most provide well-maintained training boats that are ideal for skill development. Check with your chosen centre via adventuro’s listings for their specific policy.
Level 3 sets you up nicely for taking more specialised modules in the RYA Dinghy Scheme. Popular next steps include Seamanship Skills, Sailing with Spinnakers, or Start Racing. You could also consider becoming an assistant instructor if you're keen to help others learn.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, including a waterproof jacket, non-slip footwear, and a change of clothes. Most centres provide buoyancy aids and boats, but check the course details. In colder weather, thermal layers and gloves are recommended. A hat and sun protection are wise in summer conditions.
You can compare and book RYA-accredited Better Sailing (Level 3) courses at centres across the UK via adventuro. Each listing includes course dates, pricing, and what’s included, so it’s easy to find an option that fits your schedule and location.
