This is a new two day course aimed at the complete beginner who would like to try a sail but does not have the time or as yet been hooked with the desire to spend a full five days afloat.

This course does include an overnight afloat which is a good introduction into the world of cruising, usually spent in a different port to the departure harbour.

The first day is usually taken up in the introduction of a lot of new terminology, the safety equipment and the experience of being afloat and propelled by the wind.

By the time the yacht is parked up for the night there is a feeling of familiarity which is emphasized in the morning with a repetition of many actions that have been learnt the previous day.

There are even lessons to be learned in the simple task of preparing a brew for the crew, as the galley may not be flat or remain still during the process, however with good instruction even a gourmet meal can be possible once underway.

The second day is a chance to ask all those questions that were too elusive to be put into words, but now begin to make sense, all too soon the time will come to pack up and book the next trip!

The course involves being a member of the crew, preparing the yacht for departure, coiling mooring lines and stowage. Then securing the chosen sail, hoisting and learning how to trim for speed. A chance to steer the yacht under both power and sail give a feeling of understanding in the forces that the effect of the wind produce.

Some time is spent in basic knowledge of sailing terms, some simple knots and learning how to be an effective lookout at sea.

At the end of the course there should be some experience in sail handling, steering, ropework and some knowledge of safety and most of all a desire to return to complete the competent crew course.

Having completed the Start Yachting course the next stage is the competent crew course which holders of a Start Yachting certificate can complete in only three more days. (The minimum requirement for the competent crew course is normally 5 days)

Prices for all the practical courses include accommodation afloat, instruction and meals. There are waterproofs and bedding to hire for those who do not have their own. We do not hire waterproof footwear, preferring that people brush the mud off their green wellies to sharing footwear.

Accommodation is aboard the yacht on comfortable berths with recommenced bedding being a sleeping bag with a pillow.

Good food is a necessary requirement for any one in a learning situation and we believe in wholesome tasty food as a meal is a good social time to share experiences and get to know other members of the crew.