RYA logoThe best way to learn to sail is to follow the tried and tested programme laid down by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA). These are the adult beginner courses Levels 1 and 2, which provide a safe and structured entry into the world of dinghy sailing.

Hunts Sailing Club is a RYA Recognised Training Centre and this enables us to run RYA courses and issue certificates.

RYA Level 1 and Level 2 courses

You will learn:

  • How to steer and turn a dinghy
  • Launching and recovery
  • Parts of the sail and sail controls
  • Rules of the road
  • Points of sailing
  • Weather, wind and tides
  • Sailing safety
  • The 5 Essentials for fast and efficient sailing.

Back on the Water

Weekday sessions in April for those who have not sailed over the winter. Get back on the water with the help of our instructors and coaches. For all abilities.

Learn to Sail - Summer Courses

Two four-day courses during the summer holidays mainly for beginners. These courses will lead to Stage 1 and/or 2 for juniors and Levels 1 and/or 2 (Start Sailing and Basic Skills) for adults.

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Beyond Level 2

On completion of a Level 2 course, you should be able to sail a dinghy on your own on all points of sailing in light to moderate winds. Once you've had some sailing experience, you will be well equipped to progress onto Level 3: Better Sailing and then more advanced courses such as Seamanship Skills, Sailing with Spinnakers, and Start Racing.

RYA Start Racing / Get Ready to Race

A two-day introduction to racing in the Spring leading to a RYA Start Racing certificate. If you have always wanted to race but have not known what to do – or if you are a novice and want to improve your skills this is for you! Fun sessions looking at how to start a race, tactics and mark rounding. Sailors must be confident single-handers with Stage 2 / Level 2 or above, adults and youth welcome.

Autumn Race Training

In October / November we typically run Saturday morning race training sessions, for adults and older juniors on the water or by Zoom when the weather is not in our favour. These sessions cover boat handling, starting and mark rounding.

One-to-One tuition

If you have a specific sailing issue, we can offer one-to-one coaching at a time to suit you.

Booking a course

You can see what courses are available on our website. We also advise members via a Newsletter when new courses open and then you can book them online. All courses are for Hunts SC members only.  No places are confirmed until an application form has been completed and course fee paid. Dates can be subject to change due to weather conditions or insufficient enrolment.

  • Go to the current courses page.
  • Go to the Training Calendar to see what's coming up.
  • If you have any questions please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at the club speak to the Training Principal Vanessa Weedon-Jones or any of the sailing committee.
  • To find out more about RYA courses for adults, visit the RYA website.