RYA Start Yachting Course - Taster Weekend

Start Yachting with Confidence: The RYA Start Yachting Sail Cruising Course is a perfect introduction if you want to learn sailing beginner—and discover the joy of yacht handling from day one.

Designed for complete novices, this two-day course gives you a hands-on experience before moving on to more advanced training like Competent Crew. It offers a relaxed schedule that will give you a taste of what yachting is about and whether you’d enjoy it. You’ll sail to another pretty ports and bays along Malta coast. You’ll anchor for lunch each day and enjoy the freedom of being able to swim from your own yacht in the crystal clear blue water. Children in particular love this.

Over a weekend (or weekday, typically Monday–Tuesday), our friendly RYA instructors guide you through fundamental skills—from steering to sail trim and ropework—while making sure you feel relaxed and confident.

By the end of the course, you'll start yachting like a pro, having tried helm, sails, knots, and onboard safety practices.

After earning your Start Yachting certificate, you can fast-track to the RYA Competent Crew course in just three days or two weekends.