Sailing for beginners: Top tips

Sailing is a great sport for anyone, of any ability, to get onboard with – but you’ll need to have a basic skillset under your belt before setting sail on your own adventure.

Whether you want to try your hand at racing, discover somewhere new or simply make the most out of the water on your doorstep, sailing is a great way to explore.

It exercises your concentration and coordination skills. Plus, being out in the open air can help to reduce stress, boost your chances of a better night’s sleep, and enhance your overall wellbeing.

Who can sail?

Sailing is one of the few sports in which everyone, at any age and ability, can get involved. You can learn to sail alone, as a family, with friends, or you can join a club. 

Do you need to be fit to sail?

You don’t need to be physically fit to get started, but you should be comfortable with being in the water. Dinghy sailing tends to be a bit more physical, so pick a craft to suit your skills and fitness levels. No matter what your fitness levels are, we recommend always wearing a lifejacket or buoyancy aid.

Is sailing family-friendly?

Sailing is a great way to take up an activity outdoors as a family – you could sign up to a group sailing course and learn the skills together. Children (from 8 years old) can take a UK training course and, in Ireland, children (from 6 years old) can learn basic sailing skills.

RNLI National Water Safety Partner Sam Hughes takes her children sailing and offers these words of advice: ‘Pack spare clothes, extra food and water, suncream, seasickness remedies (take early, if concerned!).

‘When fitting a child for a lifejacket, use their weight and chest size to choose one within the manufacturer’s recommended range. Have them wear a crotch strap to minimise how much the lifejacket will ride up if they enter the water.

‘And if anyone’s struggling, don’t hesitate to call it a day early. It’s best if everyone’s comfortable and enjoys their time on the water – and there’s always another day.’

Is there a disabled option with sailing?

One of the great things about this sport is that able-bodied and disabled sailors can get involved on equal terms. Sailability is a not-for-profit organisation working with both the RYA and Irish Sailing to help every sailor progress their individual sailing skills and even become competitive.

Young sailor Natasha Lambert has cerebral palsy and sails a specially adapted sailboat using a sip-puff system (a single-straw that is used to control the boat’s steering and sails by breath).

Should you join a sailing club?

Sailing clubs are a great, affordable way to learn how to sail - they can equip you with the training you need to get out on the water.
The RYA and the ISA can point you towards plenty of clubs and centres around your community.
Once you feel confident enough to head out to sail, get familiar with checking the weather and tides before every journey – we can introduce you to a selection of apps and services to help plan your day. 

What kit do you need?

Your sailing equipment should always include a lifejacket or buoyancy aid, which you should always wear when you’re on deck. You should also prepare for all weathers by bringing multiple layers of clothing – including a hat – as conditions can change very quickly.

You don’t need your own boat to get started – clubs often allow their members to hire vessels, and many sailors are looking for people to join their crew. We always recommend that each vessel carry a means for calling for help.

You should also consider bringing a head torch, sunglasses, suncream and snacks. 

What should I wear to sail?

• Avoid bulky clothing. Thin layers trap more air and allow you better freedom of movement. Invest in a good base layer – merino wool is wicking, thermal and breathable. 
• Mid-layer salopettes will give more warmth than a standard fleece. 
• Choose brightly coloured outers – they’re easier to see than blues and greys at dusk and in fog.
• Up to 70% of body heat is lost through the head, so a warm sailing hat is a must. 
• A snood, buff or balaclava covers the neck and can be pulled over your ears and nose to prevent the Rudolph effect!
• A spray hood will give protection from wind chill and flying water.
• Thick, thermal gloves are good but can be tricky if you’re fiddling with knots and adjusting sheets. Fingerless gloves improve dexterity. 
• Choose comfortable, waterproof, breathable boots with good grip – big enough to accommodate thick socks.
• Always take a set of spare clothes and gloves.

What do you need to know before sailing for the first time?

Before you get out on the water, make sure you:

• Research basic boating terms. Before you learn to sail, you’ll need to know about the parts of a sailboat and how they work. Do you know your aft from your stern and your boom from your rudder? Learn about common manoeuvres too, like tacking and gybing.
• Take a training course. The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) and Irish Sailing Association (ISA) offer courses all around the UK and Ireland, with plenty of clubs and watersports centres based near lakes if you don’t live by the coast.
• Pack the right kit. This includes a lifejacket, the right clothing (see above), and essentials like suncream and sunglasses.
• Research tide, wind and weather conditions. When you’re sailing, your safety comes first –be prepared to change your plans or cancel the trip if the forecast is unfavourable.
• Carry a means of calling for help and a mobile. If you get into difficulty, call 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard.
• Tell someone where you’re going and when you intend to return.

Where can you sail?

There are countless sailing hotspots around the UK and Ireland – from lakes and reservoirs to wide open seas and the coast. Find your closest sailing school or club through the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) or the Irish Sailing Association (ISA).

Whenever and wherever you choose to head out, always check the weather and tide conditions first.

When can you go sailing?

Is sailing expensive?