From £ 595
Somerset and Dorset, United Kingdom
From £ 205
Poole, Dorset
From £ 450
Somerset and Dorset, United Kingdom
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The course combines shore-based theory with on-water practice to ensure a thorough, practical understanding of spinnaker use. The syllabus typically includes:
You’ll start with a shore session covering terminology, rig setup and safety. On the water, you’ll rotate through different crew positions to gain a full understanding of each role. Expect a mixture of drills and longer downwind legs to consolidate learning. Instructors will provide feedback throughout, helping you refine your techniques and build confidence.
Conditions permitting, you’ll experience a variety of wind angles and practice in both light and moderate airs. Some centres may use spinnaker socks or snuffers to aid handling, especially on training yachts. The focus is always on hands-on learning, safety and seamanship.
Completing the RYA Sailing with Spinnakers course opens up a whole new dimension of sailing. You’ll be able to participate more confidently in club racing or performance cruising by handling downwind sails with skill and safety. Understanding how to use a spinnaker properly allows for faster, more efficient sailing on broad reaches and runs, and it improves your overall sail trim awareness. This course also prepares you well for crewing on larger yachts, where spinnaker handling is often a key part of offshore or regatta sailing.
While not a formal pre-requisite for other RYA qualifications, the experience gained here complements advanced courses such as the RYA Advanced Modules (Performance Sailing, Seamanship Skills) or Yachtmaster Coastal preparation. It also makes you a more capable and versatile crew member. If you're looking to build your logbook and skillset for more challenging sailing, this is a solid step forward. Don’t forget, adventuro lists hundreds of RYA courses and sailing experiences across the UK to help you keep progressing.
This is usually a one or two-day course, depending on the training centre. Sessions typically run for 6–8 hours per day, including a mix of shore-based briefing and on-water practice. Some courses may offer intensive single-day formats, while others run over a weekend.
Assessment on the RYA Sailing with Spinnakers course is continuous and practical, with no final exam. Your instructor will observe your technique as you rig, hoist, gybe, and drop both symmetric and asymmetric spinnakers. You'll receive feedback throughout the course to help you build confidence and competency. By the end, you’ll demonstrate safe and effective spinnaker handling in a variety of conditions. Certification is awarded based on your ability to perform the required skills under supervision, rather than on theoretical knowledge alone. Some centres may offer a short debrief or skills log at the end of the course. You can book this course through adventuro’s extensive range of RYA-accredited centres.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesThis course focuses on the safe and effective use of spinnakers, both symmetric and asymmetric. You’ll learn how to rig, hoist, gybe, and drop spinnakers, as well as how to trim them for different points of sail. You’ll also gain a better understanding of roles on board, teamwork, and how to plan and execute downwind sailing manoeuvres.
No prior experience with spinnakers is necessary, but you should already be comfortable helming and crewing a dinghy in moderate conditions. The course is designed for sailors who want to expand their skills and take on more complex sail handling. If you're unsure about your level, check out adventuro’s beginner sailing options first.
Most centres use double-handed dinghies that are fitted with either symmetric or asymmetric spinnakers. Common examples include the RS200, Laser 2000, or Wayfarer. The exact boat may vary depending on the centre, but all are chosen to give you hands-on experience with spinnaker systems.
There is a light theory component, usually delivered informally during onshore briefings. Topics include wind angles, spinnaker trim, and the difference between symmetric and asymmetric rigging. However, the emphasis is on practical skills, with most of your learning taking place on the water.
Yes, if you demonstrate the required skills to a satisfactory level, you’ll receive an RYA Sailing with Spinnakers course completion certificate. This is a great addition to your sailing log and can help if you plan to race or move on to more advanced courses.
You’ll need non-slip footwear, suitable sailing clothing for the weather (including waterproofs and warm layers), and a buoyancy aid if not provided by the centre. Some centres may also recommend gloves and eye protection. Check with your chosen adventuro centre for a full kit list.
The course typically runs over one to two days, depending on the centre and conditions. Some centres may offer it as part of a weekend package. The aim is to give you plenty of time to practise under supervision in a range of wind conditions.
The course is generally aimed at adults and older teenagers with prior dinghy sailing experience. Some centres may offer youth-focused versions or require a minimum age. It’s best to check with your chosen provider via adventuro’s platform for age suitability and supervision policies.
Symmetric spinnakers use a pole and can be flown on either side of the boat, making them ideal for dead downwind sailing. Asymmetric spinnakers are more like large, curved jibs and are easier to handle, particularly during gybes, but they are less effective directly downwind. This course teaches you how to handle both types depending on your boat and sailing goals.
You can book the RYA Sailing with Spinnakers course through adventuro’s wide network of accredited sailing centres. Each listing includes course details, equipment provided, and user reviews to help you choose the best location for your needs.