Chieftain Training

RYA & STCW Courses – Sail, Power, Super-Yacht & Workboat

Learn To Sail or Windsurf

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Learn to Sail

Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to build confidence and qualifications, we offer a clear pathway into sailing for adults, families and young people. Choose the style of sailing that suits you best — from quick, responsive dinghies to comfortable keelboats, plus multihulls and windsurfing.

Below are the six main areas you can explore.

1) Dinghy Sailing

Dinghy sailing is the classic way to learn the fundamentals: steering, sail trim, balance, launching and coming alongside — all with immediate feedback from the boat. It’s hands-on, social, and brilliant for building confidence quickly.

Ideal for: complete beginners, returners, and anyone who wants strong “boat feel”
What you’ll gain: core sailing skills, confidence afloat, and a great base for any other discipline

2) Keelboat Courses

Keelboats offer a more stable platform and are a great option if you prefer a slightly less “athletic” style of sailing, or you want to sail with friends and family. Keelboat training is also a strong stepping stone into cruising and racing pathways. Keelboas do not capsize so there is no need to wear a wetsuit, instead waterproofs are worn

Ideal for: adults learning with friends, confidence building, progression into bigger boats
What you’ll gain: teamwork afloat, boat handling, sail trim, and practical seamanship

3) Multihull Courses

Multihulls are fast, exciting, and very different to sail compared to monohulls. You’ll learn how to manage speed, balance and power, with a big emphasis on technique and awareness.

Ideal for: confident sailors looking for something new (or adventurous beginners!)
What you’ll gain: high-performance handling, efficient sail trim, and multi-specific skills

4) Windsurf Courses

Windsurfing is an amazing way to learn wind awareness and water confidence. It’s active, fun, and gives fast progression — from first launch to turns, speed control and harness skills as you advance.

Ideal for: sporty beginners and anyone who loves a challenge
What you’ll gain: balance, wind sense, board control, and a seriously rewarding skillset

5) Youth Courses

Our youth programme is designed to be welcoming, fun and progressive — with structured coaching and a clear pathway from “first session” to confident independent sailing. Youth training can be done in several formats:

Youth Windsurfing

A fun, energetic entry point that builds confidence quickly. Great for teenagers and adventurous younger sailors.

Youth Dinghy Sailing Weekends

Perfect for building skills steadily without committing to a full week. A great option for beginners and improvers.

After-School Courses / Club

A weekly club-style format for steady progression, new friends, and lots of time on the water across the season.

Holiday Courses (5 days)

Our five-day weeks are a brilliant way to progress fast, build confidence, and make friends.

Holiday course options include:

  • Sailing Week (Dinghy Sailing)

  • Windsurf Week

  • Multi-Activity Week (a mix of on-water activities alongside sailing/windsurfing)

6) What to Choose

Not sure where to start? Here’s a simple guide:

  • Want the best “foundation” in sailing? Start with Dinghy Sailing or Keelboating

  • Prefer to stay dry and use teamwork? Choose Keelboats

  • Want speed and excitement? Go for Multihulls

  • Love sporty water time? Try Windsurfing

  • Booking for a young person? Head to Youth Courses and pick the format that fits your diary

Ready to book?

Pick an area above and explore the course options and dates. If you’d like a recommendation based on age, confidence, and goals, get in touch and we’ll point you to the best starting course.