RYA Seamanship Skills
Check our latest availability for RYA Seamanship Skills here.
Overview
The RYA Seamanship Course focuses on technical boat handling skills and manoeuvres and equips sailors with the skills to confidently handle a sailing boat in diverse conditions, enhancing independence and decision-making on the water. Participants will learn essential techniques, including anchoring, sailing backwards, sailing without a rudder, and recovering from running aground. This practical, hands-on course is ideal for intermediate sailors aiming to advance their abilities and those looking to deepen their understanding of boat handling and improve their seamanship skills.
Led by our experienced RYA instructors, you will spend plenty of time on the water practicing key skills and manoeuvres to master full control of the boat and be challenged.
By the end of the course, you will be able to confidently handle a range of situations while afloat, making it an excellent way to increase your confidence on the water or provide a stepping stone if you are looking to pursue instructing qualifications.
What you will learn
- Launching and recovering the boat in different circumstances and difficult wind directions
- Rudderless and Centreboardless Sailing
- Stopping
- Reducing sail
- Recovering a man overboard
- Picking up a mooring
- Anchoring
- Recovering inverted capsizes
Details
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Duration: |
2 Days (or equivalent number of hours) |
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Age: |
16+ years (Participants under 16 should consider our Youth Sailing Courses) |
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Previous Experience: |
Sailing skills to the standard of Level 3 Basic Skills or Youth Sailing Stage 4 |
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Price: |
£XXX includes tuition, equipment use and RYA certificate Club Member Price: £XX |
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Timings: |
9:30 - 17:00 with a break for lunch around midday |
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Buoyancy Aid: |
Must be worn - you may wear your own if you have one, but Buoyancy aids can be provided for the course if required |
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Clothing: |
The training will be mostly on the water, and you should be prepared for all kinds of weather. We will lend you wetsuits, buoyancy aids and spray tops if required (or you are welcome to wear your own if you have them). You will need:
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Cancellation Notice: |
Details of our Cancellation Policy can be found in the Course Booking Conditions |
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Instructor to Student Ratio |
Up to 6 students per instructor |
Next Steps: Other Advanced Modules
Why book with Bartley RTC?
- Expert Coaching & Development
Our RYA Instructors follow a structured development programme, helping you progress at every level. Whether you're learning the basics or refining your skills, you'll gain confidence, new skills, and a love for the water. - High Safety Standards
Safety is our top priority, with expertly trained staff, well-maintained equipment, and strict safety protocols in place. - Great Water and fantastic location
Bartley Sailing Club is a fantastic location on a clean drinking water reservoir on the South-Western outskirts of Birmingham with generally great wind.
Last updated 17:03 on 4 September 2026