Course
Learn to Sail – Start Here
Learn to Sail – RYA Sailing Courses
Guide price
Start from £325 for a 2 day RYA course on keel boats
Start from £375 for a 2 day RYA course on the sailing yachts
Who is this course for
Perfect for beginner sailors and anyone looking to give sailing a try for the first time.
Sail on Day Sailers and Cruising Yachts
We offer training and sailing experiences on both modern day sail keelboats and fully equipped sailing yachts, giving you the opportunity to learn in different environments and develop a wider range of sailing skills.
Our day sail keelboats are ideal for beginners and those looking to build confidence quickly. Responsive, easy to handle, and exciting to sail, they provide a fantastic introduction to the fundamentals of sailing and boat handling.
For those seeking longer passages, advanced training, or RYA cruising qualifications, our sailing yachts offer the perfect platform to develop practical seamanship, navigation, passage planning, and skipper skills in real offshore conditions.
Whether you prefer a short sailing session, a full day on the water, or a multi-day training course, we have a boat and programme to suit your goals.
Why Sail from Brighton?
Brighton is uniquely positioned for sailing training and adventures. Unlike many sailing centres, there are no long river passages or complicated harbour approaches. From Brighton Marina, you can reach open water within minutes, giving you maximum time under sail and more opportunities to practise essential seamanship skills.
Benefits include:
- Immediate access to the English Channel
- Excellent training conditions for RYA courses
- Training available on keelboats and sailing yachts
- Ideal environment for coastal and offshore sailing
- Convenient location with easy transport links
- Modern, well-maintained boats and equipment
- Professional and experienced instructors
Gain Real Sailing Experience
Our courses and sailing experiences combine practical learning with real-world adventure. You’ll develop skills in sail trim, boat handling, navigation, weather awareness, safety procedures, and crew management while enjoying spectacular views of the Sussex coastline.
Whether your ambition is to complete an RYA qualification, charter yachts abroad, race competitively, or simply enjoy sailing with family and friends, our experienced team can help you achieve your goals.
Start Your Sailing Journey Today
Join us in Brighton and discover why sailing is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy the sea. With expert instruction, a fleet of day sail keelboats and cruising yachts, and immediate access to open water, Brighton is the perfect place to learn, progress, and experience the thrill of sailing.
Location
Booking
Book online from the dates on this page or call 01273 42 48 42 option 1 or email us.
If you cannot find a suitable dates please contact us.
Location
What to bring
- Be prepared for changeable weather, bring plenty of layers
- Quick drying clothes can be very practical, avoid jeans
- Gloves for warmth and rope friction protection
- Sunglasses, sunhat and suncream for summer months and woolly hats, thermals and layers for winter months
- Deck boots and non-slip deck shoes or trainers that don’t mark
- Waterproofs: We can supply waterproofs for hire, Musto BR1s. You will need to order these in advance so we can have them ready for your arrival. If you have your own waterproofs, please bring them, they are a necessity
- Packed lunch to have on board
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FAQ's
How to Book
Courses can be booked directly through our website. If you’re unsure which course is right for you, our team is happy to advise.
Yes, availability is displayed on each experience page. If your preferred date isn’t shown, please contact us as we may still be able to accommodate you.
We recommend booking 4–8 weeks in advance, particularly for popular courses like RYA Day Skipper during the spring and summer season.
Course Information
No, beginners can start with RYA Competent Crew or our Learn to Sail package, which is designed for those with no previous sailing experience.
For most people, reaching RYA Day Skipper takes several months to a year, depending on availability and experience. A typical pathway includes:
- RYA Competent Crew (5 days)
- RYA Day Skipper Theory (online or classroom)
- RYA Day Skipper Practical (5 days)
Our Zero to Day Skipper Package is the fastest and most cost effective way to achieve the Day Skipper certificate.
There is no formal written exam during the practical course. Assessment is continuous and based on competence and confidence on board.
In the UK, the ICC is usually issued through the RYA. You can obtain one by:
Holding an accepted RYA qualification (such as Day Skipper) and applying to the RYA directly to convert it to an ICC, or
Passing an ICC assessment with an RYA-approved training centre
Yes. Once you hold RYA Day Skipper Practical, you can apply for an ICC without further testing.
During the RYA Competent Crew and RYA Day Skipper courses you will be expected to stay onboard for:
Part 2 (3 days) & 5 Consecutive days
The boat will visit marinas during this course, if the boat is in Brighton Marina then you are welcome to stay at home.
Our Part 1 Yacht courses and Level 1 & Level 2 courses are run as non-residential and you are not expected to stay onboard.
Any other questions
No, beginners can start with RYA Competent Crew or our Learn to Sail package, which is designed for those with no previous sailing experience.
We generally recommend not taking part in our activities if you’re pregnant, as being on the water can involve movement and conditions that aren’t always predictable.
If you do feel comfortable taking part, we usually suggest no later than around 21 weeks, but this is very much a personal decision. Everyone’s pregnancy is different, so please go with what feels right for you and consider speaking to your healthcare professional if you’re unsure.
If you let our team know in advance, we’re always happy to have a chat and help you decide what’s best for you.