New to sailing, spent some time on a yacht and don’t know your bow line from your bowline? Then this could be the course for you. The RYA Competent Crew course is an ideal introduction for those new to sailing or dinghy sailors who wish to progress into the RYA Cruising scheme.

If you would like a more detailed look at the RYA Competent Crew syllabus then please have a look at Is the RYA Competent Crew course right for me?

RYA Competent Crew Course Content

Experience living on a yacht and visit different ports each night. Learn the fundamentals of handling a boat under sail and under engine. Learn to handle sails, tie knots, and become a useful member of crew.

Join the boat on the first day, meet your instructor and crew, and after a safety briefing set off returning on the last day.

Useful literature

The RYA Competent Crew Skills is a useful book both during the course and as an aide memoire after your course, and can be purchased for £10 please let us know when you are booking.  We also have a section on sail handling that contains some worksheets you might find useful.

Discounted course when booked with RYA Competent Crew

Book your RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course for £50 instead of £99.

After your course

You will have an understanding of sailing and how to be a useful member or crew, gaining a recognised certificate.

Course Details

Previous experience required None

Duration 5 days

Max instructor ratio 5:1

Cost £550

For more information please visit our RYA Competent Crew page

To book

Booking Form

Included on course

RYA accredited instructor, accommodation on board, gas, diesel, breakfast and lunch each day.

To enable you to fully enjoy the course, you will require wet weather gear; a sleeping bag and pillow will also be required. Refer to our comprehensive kit list.

Wondering what to do next?

Why not continue the RYA qualifications and complete the RYA Day Skipper Theory course.

Already completed the Day Skipper Theory? Have a look at our dates for the Day Skipper Practical course.

Want to experience night sailing and watch systems? Why not join us on one of our mile builders.

Have a taste for sailing and would like some more experience? Why not come out cruising with us?

Fancy something a little faster? Why not come out racing or on a race training course?

Learn more about the other foundation courses we offer.

Or perhaps learn how to become a skipper.

RYA Specialist Courses

• RYA VHF Course
• RYA First Aid
• RYA/ISAF Offshore Safety
• RYA Diesel Engine Maintenance
• RYA Sea Survival Course

Learn more about the Specialist Courses we offer.

Further Information

Contact Us

If you have any other questions please contact us or check out our FAQ page.

Who are the RYA?

Find out more about the Royal Yachting Association (RYA): Who are the RYA?