How to choose the right course for you

If you’re thinking about taking up sailing for the first time, or you want to build upon your existing experience, knowing which course to take can seem like a challenge in itself. As a result, it’s important to make sure you carry out your research first. In doing so, this will allow you to come to an informed and logical decision about which course is right for you.

With this in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the criteria that will determine the right course for you.

Your Currently Level of Sailing Ability

One of the main deciding factors for choosing a sailing course is your current level of ability. If you’ve never stepped foot on a sailing boat before then you will need to start with the basics. In this instance, the two day RYA Start Yachting Course, or five day RYA Competent Crew course is ideal and will enable you to learn basic techniques, such as steering, trimming sails, rope work and on board safety. If you are starting from scratch it’s important to learn the right way; good quality training and advice will ensure that you get the fundamental skills right, and prevent you from picking up bad habits in the future.

In contrast, if you’ve already got some sailing experience, then you should take a look at building on this by attending a more advanced course. The RYA Day Skipper Course and the RYA Coastal Skipper Course are just two of many suitable examples that will help take your skills to the next level.

What You Want To Achieve?

 While there are a number of RYA sailing courses on offer, you need to establish what you want to achieve from participating in sailing. This will help you to have a clear vision of the path and direction that you should take. For example, if you want to build on the basics, in addition to the aforementioned RYA Start Yachting Course, you could decide to complete the RYA Competent Crew Course.

Alternatively, if you are really looking to progress then you could aim to join one of the BOSS Master Classes, which have been specially designed to focus on the techniques of sail trimming, boat handling and developing higher level skills through the Qualified Skippers option. Through these training classes, you’ll learn how to get the very best out of your yacht and practice your skills to become more confident when mooring and sailing in close quarters.

Does It Come Recommended?

Once you know the type of course that’s right for you, based on your ability and sailing goals, the next thing to consider is the sailing company behind the training, and whether or not they come recommended. Asking friends and family is a great way to gauge if you should choose a particular course based on their own personal experiences. Reading testimonials and reviews will also act as a useful indication too.

If you’re really intrigued, why not pop down to a company’s marina and catch up with some of the other course attendees. It’s the best way to make sure you’re not only on the right course, but training with right sailing company.

 Get In Touch With the Professionals

Finally, if you need further advice, why not speak directly to the professional instructors? They have unrivalled knowledge of the best sailing courses for you, based on your ability and what you want to achieve. With so many courses to choose from you’ll be forgiven for being a little overwhelmed, so if you need pointing in the right direction, give your chosen sailing training company a call to find out more.

Here at BOSS, we can help you by recommending the best courses to set you on your way and becoming more confident on the water. Navigate our website for a full list of practical, shore based, and fast track sailing courses, or give us a call and speak to one of our experienced course advisors +44 (0)2380 457733. Good luck choosing your course and remember to stay safe and enjoy yourself when out on the water.