We know it can be intimidating taking your first step into a new hobby, but there’s nothing to worry about, sailing is brilliant fun! Take your worries away knowing that we teach to the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) National Sailing Scheme – meaning you get expert training and tuition.
This is where you learn how to sail! We usually run these as a weekend-long introduction into sailing, where no experience is needed.
This course introduces you to the fundamentals of sailing, including sailing up, down and across the wind, turning the boat and what to do in the event of a capsize.
RYA Key learning points: Rigging, launching, landing, sailing in all directions, capsize recovery, safety information and basic sailing theory.
Our friendly instructors will be with you every step of the way, offering clear instruction, guidance and encouragement.
Usually, by the end of the 2 days you will be sailing on your own, with the instructor overseeing your newly learnt skills from a powerboat.
Our RYA Basic Skills (Level 2) courses are the follow on course from the Start Sailing (Level 1) course.
We’ll help you to take the next step with your newly learnt skill. We’ll guide you through learning more boat handling skills in double and single-handed boats, working towards the RYA Basic Skills (Level 2) certificate.
Key learning points: Rigging, launching and landing, sailing in all directions, man overboard recovery, coming alongside, safety information and basic sailing theory.
Our friendly instructors will be with you every step of the way, offering clear instruction, guidance and encouragement.
Our RYA Better Sailing (Level 3) courses are the follow on course from the Basic Skills (Level 2) course.
This course is the perfect way to learn more about the sport you’ve come to love! We’ll help you fine-tune your boat handling skills and over 2 days we will aim to cover the RYA Level 3 syllabus. Participants must hold an RYA Level 2 certificate before they can take this course.
Key learning points: Sailing efficiently using the Five Essentials, introduction to spinnakers, dry capsize, improved tacking and gybing, reefing, man overboard and coming alongside.
Our friendly instructors will be with you every step of the way, offering clear instruction, guidance and encouragement.
Whether you have just completed your level 1 sailing course, or you have been sailing for years and would like to refine your technique, this is a great way to get out on the water in a social capacity and fine tune your skills.
The improvers clinic is an instructor led, skills session looking to enhance your ability in certain sailing techniques. These sessions are designed as progressive steps from Levels 1, 2 and 3 and to give you a taste of the next steps in your sailing journey. you will receive valuable ‘time on the water’ and effective feedback to improve your ability.
Each clinic will focus on a specific skill and look to take your ability to the next level in that specific area. topics will depend on ability and Conditions. You will be monitored and coached while on the water, with an open group debrief to discuss and finesse the skills that you have learnt on the water.
Other than the fact we’re an RYA Training Centre of excellence, have access to arguably one of the best sailing locations across the globe and are located in the heart of the South Coast:
Our courses are led by friendly, passionate and qualified RYA Instructors – some might say some of the best in the industry.
We also offer courses suitable for adults, children, groups and those with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities – anybody can learn new skills.
All specialist kit is provided – including Buoyancy aids and lifejackets.
We have a selection of sailing dinghy’s, keelboats and accessible access dinghy’s available so that everybody can get afloat.
Our city-centre location means that SWAC is accessible from all major transport routes. Southampton also offers a host of affordable accommodation within walking distance of the Centre, and many local eateries – perfect for overnight stays.
Our sailing areas allow us to deliver a variety of courses and include the River Itchen, Southampton Water and The Solent.
We’re powered by a cause-led charity and are on a mission to persuade the nation to be active.
When you buy a course from us, or undertake your next training at SWAC, you’re allowing us to offer water-based activities to local communities who otherwise, may not have had the chance.