Sailing in Hampshire and Isle of Wight

Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are a sailing and watersports hub on the Solent, with sailing, powerboating, scuba and cycling across South East England. Learn to sail or skipper on the legendary Solent waters, take powerboat courses, dive coastal sites, and cycle the Isle of Wight's lanes by bike or e-bike. From RYA-style beginner courses to coastal adventures, this is one of England's premier places to get afloat.

Overview

Sailing has a reputation for being posh and complicated. It is neither, once someone shows you the basics. The essentials come quickly: which way the wind is going, where to point the boat, and when to duck. After that it is a lifetime of small refinements.

Most people start on a small dinghy or as crew on a yacht, learning to read the wind and work the sails. There is a knack to it that clicks surprisingly fast. The first time you catch a gust and feel the boat surge, you are hooked.

The instructors on adventuro run everything from first tasters and RYA courses to skippering and yacht charters. Whatever your level, they will have you trimming sails and sounding like you know what you are doing before long.

FAQs

None. Beginner courses start with the basics, on the water, with an instructor alongside you the whole time.

Yes, with instruction and a buoyancy aid, which you always wear. Instructors teach you what to do if things go sideways, including a capsize.

In a small dinghy, quite possibly, and that is part of learning. Courses practise it on purpose so it stops being scary.

Layers you do not mind getting wet and shoes with grip. Waterproofs and a buoyancy aid are usually provided.

Dinghies teach you the feel of the wind fastest. Yachts are roomier and better for longer trips. Plenty of people do a bit of both.

The RYA scheme is the UK standard, from Start Yachting and Competent Crew up to Day Skipper and beyond.

Less of an issue than you would think on inland water and calm coasts. If you are prone to it, start somewhere sheltered and the instructor can advise.

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Certifications

Articles and resources

Destination Guides12 Sept 2025-7 min read

The Best Sailing Trips to Book This Year

Below is a hand-picked selection of sailing trips on adventuro, with a closer look at what makes each destination special.

Techniques7 Aug 2024-12 min read

What is Tacking and Jibing in Sailing?

Learn the essential sailing manoeuvres of tacking and jibing with detailed steps, common challenges, and practical solutions. Master the art of changing direction safely and efficiently while navigating upwind and downwind. Ideal for beginner sailors looking to improve their skills and confidence on the water