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RYA Adult Dinghy Courses

RYA Adult Dinghy Courses

RYA dinghy courses for adults, Levels 1 to 3, in Findhorn Bay

  • 7 hours 15 mins
  • Ages 16+
  • Royal Findhorn Yacht Club

RYA dinghy sailing courses for adults in the sheltered tidal waters of Findhorn Bay. Training is hands-on and on the water, supported by short theory sessions ashore, in small groups with a maximum of six students per instructor. You will be at the helm from day one, and every course ends with a nationally recognised RYA certificate.

Courses run at three levels:

  • Level 1 - Start Sailing. For complete beginners, with no experience needed. Rigging, launching and recovering a dinghy, basic boat controls, steering, tacking and stopping, wind awareness, capsize recovery, and basic sailing theory and terminology
  • Level 2 - Basic Skills. Improved boat handling in different conditions, tacking, gybing and sailing in all directions, launching and recovery in varying situations, man overboard recovery, and sailing efficiently with greater control. You finish ready to sail independently in light winds
  • Level 3 - Better Sailing. Better boat handling, stronger decision-making afloat, and fine-tuning sail trim and manoeuvres across a range of conditions, preparing you for progression into racing or seamanship

Each level runs over two full days. We also run Levels 1 and 2 together as a single four-day course, which takes a complete beginner through to independent sailing in one go. Each scheduled course below shows its level, format and dates, so choose the one that matches your experience.

After Level 2 you can progress to our RYA Advanced Modules or the Race Training Programme.

What's included
  • Tuition from qualified, experienced RYA instructors
  • All boats, wetsuits, buoyancy aids and safety equipment (footwear is not provided)
  • Hot drinks throughout the day
  • RYA certificate on successful completion
  • Full use of the Findhorn Watersports facilities during the course
What to bring
  • Packed lunch and snacks for each day (no catering on site)
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Footwear that can get wet (dinghy boots or old trainers) - no flip-flops or open-toed sandals
  • Warm layers and a waterproof jacket
  • Towel and a change of clothes
  • Sun protection - hat and sunscreen
Additional details

  • Level 1 - 2 days - £300 per person

  • Level 2 - 2 days - £300 per person

  • Level 3 - 2 days - £300 per person

  • Levels 1 & 2 combined - 4 days - £490 per person

  • All courses run 09:15 to 16:30 each day

  • Ages 16 and over

  • Group size: maximum 6 students per instructor

  • Level 2 requires an RYA Level 1 certificate or equivalent experience

  • Level 3 requires an RYA Level 2 certificate or equivalent experience

  • The combined Levels 1 & 2 course is suitable for complete beginners

  • A variety of dinghies is used to suit different learning needs and conditions

  • Please arrive promptly for a 09:15 start

Important information
  • Minimum age 16
  • Levels 2 and 3 require prior RYA certification or equivalent experience - see Details

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See all Learn to Sail

Completed our level 1 as a group of four adults. The staff and facilities were great and they really tailored the course to meet our needs. Would definitely recommend.

Owen McDonald

Needed to cross the bay for a run between Elgin and Nairn. They agreed to take me across even though they are closed in Winter. Really helpful and great communication. Thanks guys.

Joe Dolden

My 8 year-old daughter and 2 friends just completed the Stage 1 RYA dinghy sailing course with Findhorn Watersports. I’d give them 6 stars if that was an option! Everything was spot on — good value for money, positive young staff who were great role models, and all safety & equipment side of things clearly top notch. Highly recommended.

Johannes Petersen

We had a trip on the water taxi yesterday, it’s great! Took us across to a secluded part of Culbin beach where we able to see seals. Sam who took us over was lovely, helpful and really knowledgeable. Jane, the owner is fab, very welcoming and would do anything to help. We’ll definitely be back on the water taxi again!

Jacqueline Main

I completed my RYA Dinghy level 3 at Findhorn Watersports. Friendly and accommodating people, beautiful surroundings and expert tuition. Looking forward to a return visit later this year.

Megan Campbell