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RYA Sailing with Spinnakers

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Overview

This course will introduce you to the thrill and challenge of spinnaker sailing for faster downwind and reach sailing. Through practical on the water experience, this course takes the sailor through the theory and rigging of spinnakers, when they can be deployed and recovering from problems when they occur. The course also covers some racing techniques, course setting and the concept of apparent wind.

Led by our experienced RYA instructors, you will spend plenty of time on the water practicing key skills and manoeuvres such as hoisting gybing and dropping the spinnaker.

By the end of the course, you will be able to confidently use a spinnaker independently for cruising and racing for much faster off-wind performance

What you will learn

Learn how to rig the boat
Hoist, gybe and drop/recover one type of spinnaker, either conventional or asymmetric.*
Gain the knowledge and understanding to sail the best possible course downwind.

*Sailing with Spinnakers at Bartley is generally run using asymmetric spinnakers but if you have an interest in learning about symmetric/conventional spinnakers we can cover the theory of both.

Details

Sailing skills to the standard of Level 3 Basic Skills or Youth Sailing Stage 4

Duration:	2 Days (or equivalent number of hours)
Age:	10+ years
Previous Experience:	Sailing skills to the standard of Level 3 Basic Skills or Youth Sailing Stage 4
Price:	£XXX includes tuition, equipment use and RYA certificate Club Member Price: £XX
Timings:	9:30 - 17:00 with a break for lunch around midday
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
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: Swimming costume for under the wetsuit Towel Closed toed shoes that you are prepared to get wet, or wetsuit shoes i.e. no flipflops or sandals
Cancellation Notice:	Details of our Cancellation Policy can be found in the Course Booking Conditions
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 17:05 on 4 September 2026