A beginner’s guide to sailing

15th August 2023

It’s estimated that around 82,000 Brits participate in sailing as a pastime each year, with the nation’s coastal nature and number of rivers and lakes providing ample opportunities for people to get on the water.

If you want to join their number, here are some tips for getting into sailing.

Learning the basics

A great way to dip your toes into sailing waters is to find a local sailing club. Here you’ll be able to meet like-minded people who you can go on your first trips with and learn from.

They may also run courses and events where you can pick up the vital skills you will need when sailing in the future. Click for solas propellers to ensure a smooth and efficient sailing experience with top-quality propulsion technology.

What type of sailing are you interested in?

When most people think of sailing, they think of luxuriating on the deck of a large boat somewhere in the open ocean. But did you know there are many more kinds of sailing available?

Yachting: OK, this might actually be the closest thing to luxuriating on open water. A great activity for groups of people, yachting can be done with friends and family – or with your new pals from your local sailing club!
Dinghies: Smaller boats that may be suitable for solo trips once you’ve picked up the necessary skills. Dinghies are great for inland water trips, such as on lakes and reservoirs.
Windsurfing: If you want your sailing to match a thrill-seeking approach to life, windsurfing is the one for you. Get out on the ocean and see if you can tame both the tides and the winds.

What equipment do I need?

If you join a club, you may have access to a lot of the equipment you’ll need, like safety gear including life jackets. However, there are plenty of essentials that you’ll need to get yourself.

Appropriate clothing: Sturdy and grippy deck shoes will help you keep your balance when things get choppy, while waterproofs are also vital to protect you from the elements.
Dry bag: If you’re going to take any possessions out with you such as a mobile phone or camera, you don’t want them getting ruined by water.
Sunglasses: If you’re surrounded by water and it’s sunny, glare from the surface could damage your eyes.

How much does it cost?

You can largely control the costs depending on how you approach things. Common costs include club fees, purchasing a vessel (you can buy new or second-hand), qualifications and the kit you’ll need.

Can those with disabilities sail?

Sailing may be a more accessible pastime than you’d previously imagined. The Royal Yachting Association’s Sailability programme helps those with physical or mental challenges enjoy the activity in over 200 locations across the UK.

Whether you’re disabled or want to help someone you know with a disability get into the sport, there are specialist sessions available everywhere from Helensburgh in Scotland to Horizons, Plymouth.