Sail and Learn / Training
Learning The Ropes – Your First Steps into Sailing with SC&A
Embarking on a sailing journey can be daunting for newcomers. At SC&A, we understand these challenges and have designed our Sail & Learn Programme to transform apprehension into confidence. Whether you’re worried about past experiences on the water, or if spending time in close quarters as a member of the LGBTQ+ community seems daunting, we’re here to ensure a welcoming and inclusive experience.
Join. Learn. Sail. – The SC&A Way
Our initial five-day tuition focuses on transforming you from a new crew member to a confident sailor. You’ll actively participate in crew activities, learning essential skills and fostering a sense of community.
What You’ll Learn:
- Points of sail
- Rope work
- Helming skills
- Parts of the boat
- Boat customs and etiquette
- Tacking and gybing commands and skills
- Teamwork and safety equipment
Where We’ll Go:
Departing from our home berth, the Sail & Learn programme takes you to various ports and marinas. This is a time to bond with fellow crew members and build lasting connections.
Safety Assurance:
Our experienced instructors prioritize a safe learning environment, ensuring everyone, especially newcomers, feels comfortable and connected within the crew.
Provided Amenities:
- Fully stocked boat with food
- Covered berthing costs
- Showers at marinas
- Wet weather gear available
- Bring a sleeping bag, pillow, and personal items for a “Glamping” experience
The Next Steps in Your Sailing Adventure:
After completing the Competent Crew course, options abound! Choose to relax as a crew member or advance to become a Day Skipper. This qualification opens up new possibilities, from chartering yachts to leading as a responsible skipper.
Becoming a Day Skipper:
- Day Skipper Theory: 5-day course covering navigation, responsibilities, rules, customs, and safety.
- Day Skipper Practical: Learn to confidently skipper a yacht during daylight hours, focusing on navigation, boat handling, safety, and meteorology.
Key Points for Learning to Sail:
- Enroll in a structured sailing course.
- Start with smaller boats for better responsiveness.
- Learn the basics: points of sail, sail trim, tacking, gybing, rope work, helmsmanship, customs, and basic navigation.
- Practice regularly for skill improvement.
- Learn from experienced sailors and instructors.
- Prioritize safety at all times.
- Embrace continuous learning through books, articles, videos, and additional courses.
Join Us on the Water:
The journey to becoming a skilled sailor is both exciting and rewarding. At SC&A, we welcome you to start this journey with us. Check our Events page for the next Sail & Learn event, or contact our Rear Commodore Training for more details. Embrace the sailing community and make lasting memories on the water!
Remember: Learning to sail takes time and practice. Enjoy the process, embrace the sailing community, and make lasting memories on the water. Contact our training team for more information.