Question 1

How do I start sailing with no experience?

Accepted Answer

The best way to start sailing with no experience is to book a beginner sailing course such as an RYA Competent Crew course. These are 5-day practical courses that teach you everything from scratch — no experience needed. Sailing On Course lets you compare beginner sailing courses across Europe so you can find one that fits your budget, location, and dates.

Question 2

What is the best sailing course for beginners?

Accepted Answer

The RYA Competent Crew course is widely considered the best entry-level sailing course for complete beginners. It is a 5-day practical course that covers helming, sail handling, rope work, navigation basics, and safety. No prior experience is required. Sailing On Course compares Competent Crew courses across the UK and Europe.

Question 3

How much does a beginner sailing course cost?

Accepted Answer

Beginner sailing courses (such as RYA Competent Crew) typically cost between £500 and £900 for a 5-day course in the UK, and between €600 and €1,200 in Greece and the Mediterranean. Prices vary by school, location, and time of year. Sailing On Course compares prices across multiple schools so you can find the best deal.

Question 4

Do I need experience to take a sailing course?

Accepted Answer

No. Beginner sailing courses like RYA Competent Crew and Start Yachting are designed for people with zero sailing experience. You will be taught everything from scratch by qualified instructors. All you need to bring is enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

Question 5

What is a Competent Crew course?

Accepted Answer

The RYA Competent Crew course is a 5-day practical sailing qualification for complete beginners. It teaches you how to handle a yacht safely as a crew member — covering helming, sail trimming, rope work, man overboard procedures, and basic navigation. It is the most popular first sailing course in the UK and Europe.

Question 6

Is sailing hard to learn?

Accepted Answer

Sailing has a learning curve, but it is absolutely learnable — especially when you start with a structured beginner course. Most people pick up the basics within a few days on the water. The key is to start with a beginner-friendly course where you can learn at your own pace without feeling overwhelmed. Sailing On Course is designed to help you find exactly that kind of course.

Question 7

What is the difference between RYA Competent Crew and Day Skipper?

Accepted Answer

The RYA Competent Crew is the entry-level course for complete beginners — a 5-day practical course that teaches you to be a safe and useful crew member on a yacht. The RYA Day Skipper is the next step, teaching you to skipper a yacht on short passages in familiar waters. Most people do Competent Crew first, then Day Skipper once they have some sailing experience. Sailing On Course lists both course types so you can compare options and plan your progression.

Question 8

Can I do an RYA sailing course in Greece as a UK beginner?

Accepted Answer

Yes — many UK beginners choose to do their RYA Competent Crew or Day Skipper course in Greece, as it combines a sailing qualification with a warm-weather holiday in the Greek islands. Greek-based RYA sailing schools are fully accredited and the qualifications are identical to those earned in the UK. Sailing On Course lists RYA sailing courses in Greece alongside UK options so you can compare prices and dates easily.

Question 9

How much does an RYA Competent Crew course cost?

Accepted Answer

RYA Competent Crew courses typically cost between £400 and £900 for a 5-day course in the UK, depending on the school and location. In Greece and the Mediterranean, prices range from approximately €600 to €1,200, often including accommodation on the yacht and some meals. Sailing On Course lets you compare prices from multiple schools side by side so you can find the best value for your budget.

Beginner Sailing Guide | Sailing On Course