Gain practical sailing experience and earn your RYA Competent Crew or Day Skipper Practical qualification on board Moosk, a classic gaff yawl. Over five nights, the course offers hands-on training in all aspects of sailing, from helming and sail handling to navigation and watchkeeping, guided by professional instructors. No previous experience is required, and you will gain confidence, skills, and sea miles in a supportive environment.
The course begins with embarkation at Plymouth Yacht Haven, followed by an orientation of Moosk and a safety briefing. You will quickly get involved in helming, sail handling, and learning the basics of navigation, ropework, and watchkeeping under the guidance of experienced instructors. Evenings are spent reviewing the day, planning the next day’s activities, and enjoying meals together on board.
Throughout the week, practical exercises cover Competent Crew or Day Skipper requirements, including meteorology, emergency procedures, man overboard drills, and yacht handling both under sail and engine power. You will experience life at sea first-hand, sharing responsibilities for cooking, cleaning, and keeping the vessel tidy while also having downtime to relax on deck or in communal spaces.
The course is structured to build confidence and competence at sea. By the end of the five nights, you will have the skills to participate in future voyages, pursue higher RYA qualifications, and gain valuable sea miles. Professional instructors provide constant support, ensuring safety and progression for all crew.
The course departs from Plymouth, with sailing along the scenic south Devon and Cornwall coast. Depending on weather conditions, the route may include sheltered bays, harbours, and stretches of open water, providing varied sailing experience.
The waters offer opportunities for hands-on training in real conditions, as well as occasional stops for exploration, swimming, or enjoying the coastline. This area is ideal for practical seamanship exercises, with a mix of coastal and offshore navigation challenges.
Accommodation is on board Moosk in shared bunks, with communal areas for meals and relaxation. Meals are included, and the vessel is equipped with all necessary safety equipment and waterproofs.
Life aboard encourages teamwork and active participation, from cooking and cleaning to maintaining watches. Downtime can be spent socialising, observing the coastline, or simply relaxing on deck. The combination of historic surroundings and practical learning makes for a rewarding experience.
Moosk – A gaff yawl built in 1906, Moosk is known for her seaworthiness, handling, and comfort. The vessel is ideal for both Competent Crew and Day Skipper Practical courses, allowing students to practise sail handling, navigation, and all aspects of life at sea.
Her strong oak frames and teak planking provide a safe and sturdy platform, while spacious decks allow everyone to participate in helming, sail trimming, and ropework. Below deck, comfortable cabins and communal spaces create a supportive environment for learning and socialising.
To take the Day Skipper Practical qualification, you must have completed the Day Skipper Theory course and logged a minimum of 100 nautical miles on board a sailing yacht. Competent Crew has no prior experience requirements.
Participants should be in reasonable health and able to take part in hands-on sailing activities. All necessary instruction is provided, and guidance is given throughout the course to ensure safety and confidence at sea.
This course offers the opportunity to gain internationally recognised RYA qualifications on a traditional gaff yawl, combining practical seamanship with historic surroundings. The professional instructors ensure a safe, structured, and supportive learning environment.
With small groups, hands-on experience, and a focus on building skills, confidence, and sea miles, this course is ideal for adults seeking a thorough, immersive sailing experience along the south Devon and Cornwall coast.
About the centre
Mount Batten, Plymouth
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