



Kick-start your windsurfing journey with a comprehensive RYA Start Windsurfing course designed to transform beginners into confident windsurfers. Backed by our extensive experience in both teaching and testing equipment, we focus on every aspect of the sport. As an RYA-accredited centre, we maintain the highest standards of instruction and safety, ensuring you receive the best possible start to your windsurfing adventure.
This two-day course combines theoretical knowledge and practical skills, providing you with a solid foundation in windsurfing. Day one starts with an introduction to the wind dynamics and equipment, followed by hands-on rigging sessions. Throughout the course, you’ll practice your skills in the sheltered waters of Portland Harbour, with plenty of time to build your confidence on the water. Under the expert guidance of RYA-certified instructors, you'll master key windsurfing techniques such as starting, turning, and controlling speed, and you’ll also learn how to manage safety on the water.
By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills and confidence to continue progressing in the sport. Whether you’re just getting started or planning to advance to more challenging conditions, this course will set you on the right path.
Portland Harbour, located in the heart of the Jurassic Coast, offers a unique environment for learning windsurfing. Known for its calm, sheltered waters, it provides an ideal location for beginners to practice.
The harbour's historical significance—having hosted Olympic sailing events—combined with its versatility as a teaching arena, makes it one of the top spots for windsurfing in the UK.
No prior windsurfing experience is required for this course, making it perfect for beginners.
Participants should be comfortable in the water and possess a basic level of fitness to fully engage with the training.
Our RYA Start Windsurfing course is taught by highly experienced instructors, all of whom are committed to delivering the highest standard of teaching in windsurfing. The course adheres to the recognised RYA Windsurfing Scheme syllabus, ensuring a structured and reliable approach to learning the sport. With a maximum of 6 participants per instructor, you will receive plenty of one-on-one guidance, ensuring you make the most of your time on the water.
At our centre, we pride ourselves on providing an excellent learning environment with top-quality equipment, and a location renowned for its suitability for beginners. Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby or take your first step towards more advanced windsurfing, this course offers everything you need to get started.
We are easily accessible by road, located at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy on Osprey Quay, Portland, Dorset, DT5 1SA. From Weymouth, follow signs to Portland, take a left at the first roundabout after the causeway, and look for signs to the academy. For train travelers, direct services connect us to London Waterloo, Bristol Temple Meads, and Southampton. Bus routes 1 or 601 from Weymouth train station stop near the academy.
The RYA Start Windsurfing course is a comprehensive 2-day program designed to introduce beginners to the sport of windsurfing. Affiliated with the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), the course covers fundamental skills, safety knowledge, and techniques necessary for confident windsurfing. Participants will receive an RYA certificate and logbook upon successful completion.
The course is suitable for children and adults from 8 years old, catering to beginners with no prior windsurfing experience. It is designed to be inclusive, welcoming participants of all ages, weights, and backgrounds.
Participants will learn about wind dynamics, rigging and de-rigging techniques, essential safety practices, starting, turning, speed control, and self-rescue methods. These foundational skills are taught through a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, hands-on experience.
While all windsurfing equipment and safety gear are provided, participants are advised to bring swimwear for under the wetsuit, sunscreen, a towel, and any personal items such as water and snacks. Personal insurance is highly recommended.
Upon completion, participants can progress to more advanced windsurfing courses or clinics, including intermediate and advanced levels that build on the skills learned. We offer a range of courses and personalised training sessions to cater to your continued development in windsurfing.
About the centre
Portland, Dorset
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
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Operated by The Official Test Centre, a partner of adventuro.