sylwia
Had great experience, Max was knowledgeable and very helpful. All went smoothly and loved every bit of it !
Young sailors get hands-on experience on the water in a supportive, friendly environment. Over the week, they learn launching, steering, ropework, and sailing in all directions, gradually building confidence to helm independently. Stage 1 and Stage 2 can be booked separately or together, giving flexibility for complete beginners and those with some sailing experience.
Stage 1 is all about getting comfortable on the water. Children learn to steer, control the sails, and maintain balance while practising basic boat handling. Sessions combine practical instruction with on-water exercises and fun games, helping build confidence and understanding of key sailing skills.
Stage 2 focuses on developing these skills further. Sailors practise launching, advanced ropework, and sailing in multiple directions. They gain more control at the helm, respond to changing conditions, and start to make decisions independently. Short exercises and longer on-water sessions help reinforce learning, while instructors provide guidance tailored to each child’s pace and abilities.
For the 5-day combined Stage 1+2 course, extra days allow a gradual, comfortable progression. Children get more time on the water, repeat tricky skills, and gain confidence in different wind and water conditions. The extended format also allows instructors to give one-on-one guidance, helping each child feel confident and capable by the end of the week.
The course takes place on Poole Harbour, a safe and sheltered location ideal for beginners while still offering small tidal challenges. Calm areas allow children to focus on learning, while open water sections help build real sailing skills.
With small groups of 1–6, everyone gets plenty of time at the helm and direct guidance from instructors. Launching points, marked zones, and structured sessions make learning safe, enjoyable, and effective.
No prior sailing experience is needed for Stage 1. Children who have already completed Stage 1 or sailed recently can join Stage 2 or the combined 5-day course to continue building skills.
For those who haven’t sailed since Stage 1, the 5-day course is strongly recommended. Extra time allows skills to be refreshed and practiced safely, helping each child gain confidence and enjoy the learning process.
With over 50 years of experience, the centre provides expert instruction in a friendly, welcoming environment. Instructors focus on building confidence, practical skills, and enjoyment, helping each child get the most out of their time on the water.
The setting encourages independence and resilience through varied sailing conditions and structured lessons. Children can practise skills safely while enjoying fun on-water activities and learning from experienced coaches who know how to make sailing both safe and engaging.
Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproofs if needed)
Swimwear
Towel
Footwear suitable for wet conditions (old trainers, wetsuit boots, or water shoes)
Sun hat or cap
Sun protection (sunscreen, SPF lip balm)
Refillable water bottle
Change of dry clothes for after sailing
Optional: lightweight gloves for rope handling
Stage 1 is a 3-day course introducing beginners to steering, sail control, and basic boat handling. Stage 2, lasting 2 days, builds on these skills with more advanced manoeuvres and helming practice. Booking separately allows children to focus on one stage or continue from prior experience without repeating skills unnecessarily.
Choosing the combined 5-day course is ideal for beginners or children who haven’t sailed recently. The longer duration allows additional practice, confidence-building, and tailored instruction, giving participants the best chance of completing Stage 2 successfully.
Participants should be between 8 and 16 years old. Instruction is designed to suit this age range, combining fun with structured learning in small groups. Younger participants receive gentle guidance while older children can focus on refining skills and building independence on the water.
Mixed ages provide opportunities for peer learning and support. Instructors adjust teaching to each child’s ability, ensuring everyone benefits from the same high standard of coaching regardless of age or prior experience.
A 5-day course offers extra time for settling in, familiarising with boats, and practising skills under varying conditions. Participants can learn at a comfortable pace without feeling rushed.
Extended instruction allows for personalised feedback and guidance, making it easier for children to master challenging skills and gain confidence. It also increases the likelihood of passing Stage 2, while giving instructors flexibility to incorporate fun activities that enhance the learning experience.
If sailing has been infrequent since Stage 1, the 5-day combined course is recommended. Extra days allow skills to be refreshed and built upon safely.
For children who have sailed regularly since Stage 1, the 2-day Stage 2 course may be suitable. Instructors assess abilities at the start to ensure each child is in the right group, providing a supportive learning environment tailored to their skill level.
Participants progress gradually to helming independently. Stage 1 introduces steering and sail control, while Stage 2 builds confidence in manoeuvring in different wind and water conditions.
Instructors supervise all helming activities, providing feedback and support as needed. By the end of the 5-day course, most children can manage a small boat safely with minimal guidance.
Children should bring weather-appropriate clothing, swimwear, towel, footwear suitable for wet conditions, sun protection, and a refillable water bottle.
All boats, life jackets, and safety equipment are provided. Proper clothing ensures comfort and focus, allowing participants to enjoy a full day of learning and practice on the water.
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.
