sylwia
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !



This 2-day Adult RYA Level 1 course is designed for anyone aged 16 and above who wants to begin sailing with confidence. You’ll learn the basic principles of sailing, gain essential safety knowledge, and practise hands-on skills in a dinghy such as a Wayfarer or similar. All sessions are guided by experienced instructors, and you’ll receive support to build skills at your own pace.
The course starts with an introduction to sailing theory, covering terminology, safety procedures, and essential background knowledge. You’ll then practise rigging and launching a dinghy under instructor supervision, learning the basics of steering and handling.
Practical sessions on the water focus on sailing in all directions, ropework, and recovery techniques after capsize. Instructors provide step-by-step guidance, ensuring you gain confidence handling the dinghy safely in a range of conditions. By the end of the second day, you’ll have developed the skills and knowledge needed to achieve RYA Level 1 certification.
Poole Harbour provides a safe and sheltered environment for beginners while offering a realistic sailing experience. Its combination of calm and tidal waters allows you to practise manoeuvres and gain confidence in different conditions.
The venue is secure and fully equipped, giving you easy access to boats, safety equipment, and instructor support. You’ll benefit from a professional yet welcoming setting, ideal for learning to sail at your own pace.
No previous sailing experience is required. The course is suitable for adults aged 16 and above who are motivated to learn and develop sailing skills.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for wet conditions. Buoyancy aids are provided, along with some waterproof jackets and trousers if needed. Closed-toe footwear is recommended.
With over 50 years of experience in watersports education, the centre combines professional instruction with a supportive and friendly environment. You’ll learn in a location that balances safety and challenge, giving beginners a realistic sailing experience.
Staff are highly experienced in teaching all levels of sailing, ensuring that lessons are structured, practical, and enjoyable. Facilities and equipment are maintained to high standards, providing an ideal environment for learning to sail confidently and safely.
No, this course is designed for beginners, and no previous experience is required.
RYA Level 1 allows you to sail confidently in good weather conditions and is the first step toward more advanced RYA certifications.
After Level 1, you can consider advancing to RYA Level 2 to expand your sailing skills and capabilities.
This course is open to ages 16+ who are eager to build foundational sailing skills.
Unfortunately not. Participants should bring their own lunch and snacks.
Absolutely! You can view and book our full range of courses at the bottom of this page.
Buoyancy aids and waterproofs are provided. You will, however, need plenty of old clothes – as sailing can be a damp sport! Bring shorts and tee shirts for warmer days and tracksuit bottoms and sweatshirts for colder days. A pair of old trainers or wetsuit shoes is also recommended. We can provide a more detailed kit list upon booking, too.
Our centre is fully equipped with first aid boxes located in the residential accommodation and sailing centre offices. All our main safety boats carry a first aid kit and a radio. All our instructors hold a valid First Aid certificate and attend a health and safety induction when joining the company.
We guarantee to give you the training and do our very best to help you pass the training and assessments. Most of the certificates depend on you demonstrating your competence, so we can’t give you a firm guarantee that you will pass. However, if the worst comes to the worst, you’ll leave us with an action plan to complete.
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !
An excellent practical and well explained course - Fin is very knowledgeable and experienced and this was evidenced through both days.
Had a fantastic time. Our instructor Steve was brilliant. We learnt so much. Would absolutely recommend.
it was a very exciting experience in a nice group of people☺️ I recommend it to everyone!
Good trainer, learn more than I expected
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Rockley Watersports, a partner of adventuro.