Learning to Sail: Your most common questions answered
In this article, we answer the most common questions people ask about learning to sail. We cover where to start, what it costs, how long it takes, and whether it’s as hard as it looks. Therefore, you’ll find clear answers and practical guidance, all grounded in real experience.
Should I learn to sail?
Most people don’t plan for it. Maybe it starts with a photo or a passing thought that keeps coming back.
Still, it’s normal to hesitate. We’ve had guests too nervous to walk the plank onto the boat on day one. By the end of a week learning to sail, they’re hopping on and off like it’s second nature.
Learning to sail starts with simple steps: how to move around the boat, what to pull, when to ask. Most of our guests are complete beginners when they arrive. By day seven, they’re moving with ease and often looking ahead to what’s next.
Some like to take the lead. Others hang back and watch. Either way, our instructors meet you where you are and guide you from there, while you’re learning to sail.
Explore our RYA courses → Your starting point for learning to sail
Is learning to sail hard?
Only at first and even that doesn’t last long.
It’s a skill, not a talent. First, you’ll learn the basics through the structured RYA curriculum. At Seafarer, we keep our instructor ratio low (max 5:1), so you’ll never feel lost in the crowd.
Every day builds on the last, and every night brings a new destination. Best of all? You get just the right amount of help every step of the way.
How do I learn to sail?
Learning to sail starts with choosing the right path. Most follow the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) framework. Start Yachting, Competent Crew, then Day Skipper, each designed to build skills through structured, hands-on instruction with an experienced guide.
However, learning to sail isn’t one-size-fits-all. Alongside yacht training, many learners also enjoy dinghy sailing and windsurfing, which offer a different kind of experience. They’re ideal for learning the basics on smaller boats, great for younger or more agile sailors.
We also offer RYA Powerboat Level 2 and Safety Boat courses for those interested in small-boat handling or support roles.
What learning to sail really feels like
Plus, if you’re wondering what it’s really like, one guest said it better than we ever could:
Have sailed with Seafarer for the last 6 years ….training boats, flotilla and now bareboat. Can honestly say they are an amazing company with wonderful staff who go the extra mile to make sure you have a great time. The instructors are fantastic ….Theo in the UK base is just so calm and patient, Frank at Nikiana taught me loads about sail trim and how to get the best out of the boat, Oliver in Croatia really inspired me to be a better sailor. Adam made the week I sailed with him so much fun and although I haven’t sailed with Casia, I know her students think she is the absolute best. The flotilla skippers really look after you and are so much fun to spend the week with. They give you the confidence to set off under your own steam as Skipper of your own boat, yet with the safety net at the end of the day to assist in mooring etc. A huge shout out must go to the wonderful individuals at head office who ensure your holiday runs like clockwork. If you are looking for an amazing holiday on the water, whether it be learning to sail, or on your own, I would heartily recommend Seafarer Sailing Holidays.
Explore our RYA training programmes: Greece, Croatia, UK, or the watersports centre at Nikiana Beach Club.
How much does it cost to learn to sail?
It starts from £370 for a weekend refresher and goes up depending on the course and its length. A full week long course like RYA Competent Crew or Day Skipper comes in at £716 per person.
That includes:
- All meals
- Tuition with a certified RYA instructor
- Full safety and wet weather gear
- Accommodation on board in shared cabins, with the option to have your own.
Of course, you can add extras if you like a bit more space, such as an ensuite cabin.
However, the real value lies in the small group sizes, often just three or four students. You’ll get personalised instruction and gain practical experience sailing in tidal waters.
Where to learn to sail in Europe
Greece, Croatia, and the UK each offer distinct sailing environments, ideal for different levels, goals, and preferences.
- Lefkas, Greece: Calm, warm conditions with light morning winds and stronger afternoon breezes. Ideal for beginners, families, and those interested in combining yacht training with dinghy, windsurfing, or powerboat skills. Based in Nikiana, Lefkas.
- Split, Croatia: Steady winds and more open-water sailing. Great for those seeking confident skippering experience paired with cultural immersion. Think scenic islands, medieval harbours, and varied conditions.
- Southampton, UK: Tidal waters, short course flexibility, and real-world training. Excellent for those needing RYA tidal certification or weekend options, with high instructor attention and professional progression.
Seafarer is one of the few providers offering RYA-accredited training in all three. So, whichever base you choose, you’ll get expert guidance, small group ratios, and a consistent, supportive learning experience.
To sum up, at Seafarer, we’ve helped thousands of people take their first steps when learning to sail. Some start with a weekend in the Solent. Others choose warm winds and calm waters in Greece. Most come back for more.
Wherever you begin, you’ll be learning to sail with experienced instructors and the confidence that comes from doing it properly.
Explore your options in Greece, Croatia, or the UK. Get your quote today.