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Keen to learn how to sail but not sure where to start? Or do you already have a specific set of sailing skills but unsure how to take it further?
The first decision you need to make is if you want to start your sailing journey by learning to sail in a dinghy or a yacht.
Read our comprehensive guide to take the guesswork out of choosing the best route to learning to sail or to hone your existing skills.
People of all ages and levels of ability start out on their sailing journey in a dinghy. You’ll quickly find that sailing becomes more than just a sport as there is a lively social side to it as well.
DOSC offers the opportunity to rent dinghies by the hour, or you can take a sailing course appropriate to your skill and experience level.
Taking an accredited, internationally-recognised course at the DOSC sailing school, which is an accredited RYA Training Centre, is a great option. Taught by RYA instructors, DOSC’s sailing courses will give you the opportunity to either learn from the beginner stage or hone your existing skills.
Sailing a small boat doesn’t have to be expensive as you can rent a dinghy at DOSC. If you want to own your own boat, keep an eye out for pre-loved dinghies for sale or ask around at the Club.
If you have a competitive streak then you’ll enjoy the challenge of dinghy racing, either alone or as part of a crew. DOSC has a regular schedule of race events all year round. Find out more by checking out our event calendar or the latest DOSC news.
DOSC RYA training courses are a good option to equip you with the skills to get off the start line and onto the race course.
Dinghy racing does not have to be expensive! Owning your boat is always a bonus, but you don’t have to as many clubs will also have boats you can hire for a day of racing or to practice your skills.
You could consider doing a bit of crewing (sailing in a double-handed boat) with an experienced sailor who can show you the ropes. Many clubs have affordable membership packages, some are cheaper than the cost of joining a gym!
If you are looking to buy a boat, then a preloved dinghy can be picked up at a reasonable cost. Sailing clubs often advertise boats for sale from other members.
If you have a competitive streak then you’ll enjoy the challenge of dinghy racing, either alone or as part of a crew.
DOSC has a regular schedule of race events all year round. Find out more by checking out our event calendar or the latest DOSC news.
DOSC RYA training courses are a good option to equip you with the skills to get off the start line and onto the race course.
SAILING A SMALL BOAT FOR PEOPLE OF DETERMINATION
One of the best things about sailing is that it is an inclusive sport. If you have a disability, DOSC RYA Sailability can help you get on the water.
Fancy being part of a team where every crew member makes a difference? Take on the wind, push yourself to the limit and race to the finish line.
If you’re looking for challenge, competition or the opportunity to do something different in the outdoors, then this is the sport for you. Yacht racing offers a fantastic range of mental and physical challenges which can take you around the coast or even the world. The social side is pretty good too!
Don’t let a lack of sailing experience put you off.
Competent Crew courses are a great way to get to grips with the basics of yacht sailing and pick up the skills to help you to progress into racing.
Once you have this knowledge under your belt, there are plenty of boat owners who are looking for race crew who may welcome an extra crew member on board. Yacht clubs are great places to find people regularly looking for racing crew and some have online crew lists too.
If you’re up for a challenge, regattas offer opportunities for beginners to take part in day races alongside experienced sailors. You can even take part in longer offshore races after a series of training sessions.
Although some sailors spend a lot of money on their racing, you don’t have to! Many yacht racers don’t own their own boat because those who do always need crew.
There are few pastimes that afford the freedom and opportunities that yacht sailing can provide. Whether you’re relaxing on a family day trip or cruising off for a week, month or year; yacht sailing offers a worldwide playground for you to explore.
If you love being outdoors and want to learn a mentally challenging outdoor sport, with or without the family, then there’s no reason you can’t take up this exciting pastime. The peace and tranquillity of having the wind and water as your master is a unique feeling and can make life seem suddenly simple.
Every experience offers a new adventure and you’ll soon discover there’s new friends to meet in every port.
There are plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and have your first experience in a safe and comfortable environment.
By taking a RYA sailing course at DOSC, you can discover how the boat works, learn some of the sailing jargon and maybe even have a go at the helm. You’ll certainly feel like you’re part of the crew.
Yacht Sailing Courses & Training
The more confident you get the more you can explore, therefore taking an RYA course is great place to start. Competent Crew courses are taught by qualified instructors at DOSC and are perfect for getting to grip with the basics. You can take a course alone, or with your partner or family (if your children aren’t too young).
Yachting does not need to be expensive. Although lots of sailors do own their own boats, there are many people that don’t because those who do are often looking for crew.
Yacht clubs are a great place to find people who may welcome an extra pair of hands on board their boat, and some also have online crew lists.
Sailing with a Disability
Yachting is an activity without any barriers. If you have a disability, DOSC Sailability can help you get on the water and can point you to organisations that offer sea sailing.
