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Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
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Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
From £ 205
Poole, Dorset
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Barcelona
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Hove
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Lancashire, United Kingdom
From £ 205
Poole, Dorset
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East Anglia, United Kingdom
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Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire, United Kingdom
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Surrey, East and West Sussex, United Kingdom
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Guides and stories related to this certification.
The Level 1 course is structured to introduce you to the fundamentals of dinghy sailing in a safe and approachable way. The focus is on practical experience, supported by short classroom sessions. Here’s what you can typically expect:
By the end of the course, you’ll be able to sail a short triangular course in light winds with guidance and have the confidence to take on RYA Level 2. Adventuro lists many options across the UK to help you continue your journey.
After completing Start Sailing – Level 1, you’ll be ready to sail under supervision in light winds and sheltered waters. You’ll understand how to rig and de-rig a dinghy, launch and recover it safely, and sail a basic course using tiller steering and mainsail control. You’ll also have a working knowledge of key safety principles, including what to do in the event of a capsize.
While this course won’t make you an independent sailor just yet, it sets you up perfectly for RYA Level 2, where the focus shifts to sailing independently in a wider range of conditions. Many sailing clubs and centres welcome Level 1 holders to supervised practice sessions or 'open sailing' hours to build experience. The course also supports progression into youth schemes and racing pathways for younger sailors.
With hundreds of RYA-accredited centres listed on adventuro, it’s easy to find your next step on the water—whether that’s further tuition, boat hire or a relaxing coastal sailing adventure.
This course is typically delivered over two consecutive days, with approximately 12–16 hours of instruction. Centres may offer it as a weekend, midweek or split-evening course. Some providers offer youth-specific formats during school holidays or over multiple short sessions.
The RYA Start Sailing - Level 1 course is a practical, hands-on introduction to dinghy sailing. There is no formal written exam—instead, instructors continuously assess your progress throughout the course. You'll be observed while learning and demonstrating key skills such as rigging a dinghy, launching and recovering, steering, tacking (turning through the wind), and basic safety awareness. Most centres use a relaxed and supportive approach, giving feedback as you go. By the end of the course, you'll need to show a basic understanding of boat handling under supervision. If you’re not quite ready, instructors will guide you on what to practise next. You can browse and book this course from a variety of accredited centres on adventuro’s sailing pages.
Quick answers about this qualification. For anything else, use live chat or browse bookable activities below.
Find activitiesYou’ll learn how to rig a dinghy, launch and recover it from the water, and handle the boat under sail in light conditions. Key manoeuvres like tacking (turning into the wind) and basic sailing theory are also covered. It’s a hands-on introduction with plenty of time on the water.
No previous experience is needed. The course is designed for complete beginners who want to try dinghy sailing for the first time. It’s a great taster to see if sailing is for you.
Most centres use small, stable dinghies that are ideal for learning—such as single-handed boats like the Laser Pico or two-person boats like the RS Feva. The exact type may vary depending on the centre.
The RYA Level 1 course typically runs over two full days, though some centres may offer it as a series of shorter sessions. Check the format when booking through adventuro.
Most centres accept participants from age 8 and up, though some may set a higher minimum. Children’s courses often use smaller boats and adapt the teaching style. Always check with your chosen centre.
Bring clothes you don’t mind getting wet, a waterproof jacket, soft-soled shoes (like trainers), sun protection, and a towel. Most centres will provide buoyancy aids and wetsuits if needed—just ask when booking.
If you demonstrate the required skills and understanding, you’ll receive an official RYA Start Sailing - Level 1 certificate. It’s your first step on the RYA dinghy sailing pathway.
After completing Level 1, most sailors progress to RYA Level 2: Basic Skills. That course builds your independence on the water and is often required for boat hire or further training.
Absolutely. Instructors are trained to support nervous or first-time sailors. Lessons progress at your pace, and you’ll usually sail in calm, sheltered waters to build confidence.
You can browse and book Start Sailing - Level 1 courses from a wide range of RYA-accredited centres across the UK on adventuro’s sailing course pages.
