Learn to sail

Contact us

Monday to Friday0900 to 1800
Saturday0930 to 1700
0208 324 3118

Request a call back when we are open

Contact us

Monday to Friday0900 to 1800
Saturday0930 to 1700
0208 324 3118

Request a video call back

Sun Odyssey 469 – Kos 469.2

Categories:

Sun Odyssey 469 – Kos 469.2

A spacious training yacht

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 469 is a well-suited training yacht due to its spacious layout with four cabins, providing comfortable living quarters for students. It also offers good performance for its size, allowing students to experience sail handling in a variety of conditions. The large size makes it a challenging and rewarding yacht in manoeuvres under power which is good training for those looking to skipper larger craft.

Key Features

Sail going up and down iconFully battened mainsail with lazy bag, roller genoa

Sleeping Cabins on yacht iconCabins – 2 doubles, 2 singles

Shower Head IconHeads – 4

Sun Odyssey 469 Floorplan

Cabins & Sleeping

Kos 469 features four cabins, two at the back of the yacht, both ensuite and 2 single ensuite cabins in the bow. The starboard fwd cabin is reserved for the instructor. All cabins feature a number of hatches and fans to provide lovely ventilation and full bedding for different periods of the season. There is 12v charging in the cabins along with 220v when connected to shore power.

Shared Spaces

The interior of the yacht is light and airy with a large seating area, a fully equipped galley/kitchen and a navigation area. There is 12v charging available in the saloon plus 220v plugs when on shore power. Storage for soft bags is available under the seating area plus under the beds in cabins.

Exterior

Kos 469 has a cockpit area at the back of the yacht which offers seating and hosts twin wheels for steering plus a fold down swimming platform. There is a large bimini for sun protection and a sprayhood for foul weather. The sailing power for the yacht comes from a fully battened mainsail with a lazy bag plus a large roller genoa.

Safety

Safety is incredibly important for all sailing activities and Kos 469 is fully compliant with both Greek and UK coding. We have inflatable lifejackets for all crew members plus a liferaft, multiple radios, jack stays, gass & smoke detectors plus other specialist safety equipment.

Sun Odyssey 469 Kos 469 Sailing Close
Sun Odyssey 469 Kos 469 Sailing Drone
Sun Odyssey 469 Kos 469 Sailing 2

Other Yachts

Harmony 42 Anna Sailing Feature Image

Harmony 42 Anna

Categories:

Harmony 42 – Anna

A great handling training yacht for everyone

Anna, along with her sister ship Bartholome, are both excellent training yachts and offer a great platform on which to learn to sail or progress your skills. At 13m (42ft) they offer a great compromise, with easy handling and ample accommodation space. In terms of sailing, the classic hull shape offers sublime performance on all points of sail with a controllable rig, well set up for a wide range of wind speeds. On the power side the Harmony 42 is a perfect introduction to charter yachts and will set you on a path to stress-free manoeuvers.

Key Features

Sail going up and down iconFully battened mainsail, roller genoa

Sleeping Cabins on yacht iconCabins – 3 doubles

Shower Head IconHeads – 2

Harmony 42 Floorplan

Cabins & Sleeping

Anna features three cabins, two at the back of the yacht with a shared heads/bathroom and a larger ensuite cabin in the bow. The starboard aft cabin is reserved for the instructor. All cabins feature a number of hatches and fans to provide lovely ventilation and full bedding for different periods of the season. The saloon also converts into a double bed and this is available for a £50 discount with no single supplement. See photo below.

Shared Spaces

The interior of the yacht is light and airy with a large seating area, a fully equipped galley/kitchen and a navigation area. There is 12v charging available in the saloon plus 220v plugs when on shore power. Storage for soft bags is available under the seating area.

Exterior

Anna has a cockpit area at the back of the yacht which offers seating and hosts a removable single wheel for steering. There is a large bimini for sun protection and a sprayhood for foul weather. The sailing power for the yacht comes from a fully battened mainsail plus a large roller genoa.

Safety

Safety is incredibly important for all sailing activities and Anna is fully compliant with both Greek and UK coding. We have inflatable lifejackets for all crew members plus a liferaft, multiple radios, jack stays, gass & smoke detectors plus other specialist safety equipment.

Harmony 42 Anna Sailing Stern
Harmony 42 Anna Anchoring
Harmony 42 Bartholome Saloon Berth

Other Yachts

Harmony 42 Bartholome Sailing Feature Image

Harmony 42 Bartholome

Categories:

Harmony 42 – Bartholome

A great handling training yacht for everyone

Bartholome, along with her sister ship Anna, are both excellent training yachts and offer a great platform on which to learn to sail or progress your skills. At 13m (42ft) they offer a great compromise, with easy handling and ample accommodation space. In terms of sailing, the classic hull shape offers sublime performance on all points of sail with a controllable rig, well set up for a wide range of wind speeds. On the power side the Harmony 42 is a perfect introduction to charter yachts and will set you on a path to stress-free manoeuvers.

Key Features

Sail going up and down iconFully battened mainsail with Lazy Bag, roller genoa

Sleeping Cabins on yacht iconCabins – 3 doubles

Shower Head IconHeads – 2

Harmony 42 Floorplan

Cabins & Sleeping

Bartholome features three cabins, two at the back of the yacht with a shared heads/bathroom and a larger ensuite cabin in the bow. The starboard aft cabin is reserved for the instructor. All cabins feature a number of hatches and fans to provide lovely ventilation and full bedding for different periods of the season. The saloon also converts into a double bed and this is available for a £50 discount with no single supplement. See photo below.

Shared Spaces

The interior of the yacht is light and airy with a large seating area, a fully equipped galley/kitchen and a navigation area. There is 12v charging available in the saloon plus 220v plugs when on shore power. Storage for soft bags is available under the seating area.

Exterior

Bartholome has a cockpit area at the back of the yacht which offers seating and hosts a removable single wheel for steering. There is a large bimini for sun protection and a sprayhood for foul weather. The sailing power for the yacht comes from a fully battened mainsail with a lazy bag plus a large roller genoa.

Safety

Safety is incredibly important for all sailing activities and Bartholome is fully compliant with both Greek and UK coding. We have inflatable lifejackets for all crew members plus a liferaft, multiple radios, jack stays, gass & smoke detectors plus other specialist safety equipment.

Harmony 42 Bartholome Sailing with family
Harmony 42 Bartholome Saloon Berth

Other Yachts

Harmony 42 Sailing towards camera

Greece Training Centre

Categories:

Seafarer Training Greece

Learn to Sail and qualify as a skipper in the Greek Islands

Embark on an unforgettable sailing adventure in Greece with Seafarer Training! Based in Nikiana, Lefkas, we offer RYA courses that take you on an island-hopping journey through the stunning Ionian Sea. Learn hands-on sailing skills and explore new destinations each night. Whether you’re a complete beginner or aiming to skipper your own yacht, our expert instructors will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the crystal-clear waters.

Seafarer training Greece offers the perfect pathway to skippering your own yacht with training leading straight into the supported independence of a flotilla holiday and beyond. Read on for more details of our training centre or click the icons below to head straight to that section.

RYA Courses From £636pp

RYA Training Centre Logo PNG

Courses icon

Courses

Sailing Area

Training Yachts Icon

Training Yachts

Dates & Price icon

Dates & Prices

Sail & Stay

RYA Courses in Greece

RYA Courses

The RYA or Royal Yachting Association is the UK national governing body and is widely known for offering some of the finest sailing courses in the world. These internationally recognized qualifications, delivered by certified instructors, provide a structured learning path that combines theory with hands-on experience, ensuring you have the skills to sail anywhere. All courses are run over 6 days (Monday to Saturday) at a maximum ratio of 5 students to 1 instructor and will take you to a different harbour each night, a perfect way to experience the Ionian while learning all the skills you need to sail your own yacht.

Start Yachting icon

RYA Start Yachting

The RYA Start Yachting course is an introduction to sailing for complete beginners. It covers essential skills like steering, sail handling, and basic safety procedures, providing a foundation for further sailing education or simply enjoying time on the water. This is not a prerequisite to Competent Crew, but is a great course for children and those who are looking for a laid back week.

RYA Competent Crew Icon

RYA Competent Crew

A great course for those wanting to learn to sail, the RYA Competent Crew equips you with the skills to be a valuable asset on board. You’ll learn sail handling, essential ropework, and seamanship practices, making you a confident and competent crew member for coastal adventures. No prior sailing experience required.

RYA Day Skipper Icon

RYA Day Skipper Practical

Advance your sailing knowledge with the RYA Day Skipper course. This course, designed for those with some basic experience, builds on existing skills and introduces coastal navigation, passage planning, and yacht handling in both tidal and non-tidal waters. By the course’s end, you’ll be qualified to skipper small yachts on short coastal passages during daylight hours.

RYA Training Yachts in Frikes

Sailing Area

The South Ionian islands sit just off the coast of Western Greece and create a wonderful protected expanse of water which is perfect for training. Lefkas, the most northerly island, with its rugged coastline and lush greenery, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Kefalonia enchants visitors with its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages nestled amidst olive groves. Meganisi beckons with its serene atmosphere, secluded beaches, and traditional tavernas serving freshly caught seafood. Kalamos captivates with its tranquil ambiance and unspoiled landscapes, providing a haven for relaxation and exploration. Meanwhile, Ithaka, steeped in mythology and history, invites travellers to uncover its ancient ruins, olive groves, and crystal-clear waters, embodying the essence of a quintessential Greek island escape.

These islands, plus many smaller ones offer the vibrant atmosphere of bustling harbors along with the serene beauty of secluded anchorages, all waiting to be explored.

Map of the Lefkas Flotilla

Weather Icon for winds and other weather conditions for the flotilla

Weather & Sailing Conditions

Reliable weather in the Ionian makes this a hugely popular sailing destination, with temperatures ranging from the low 20s in the early/late season up to the mid-30s in July and August. Sailing conditions are generally moderate with winds typically force 2-5, and a largely protected body of water to explore. More open-water sailing is available to the north or further south.

The winds tend to be light in the mornings, giving excellent opportunities to practice boat handling. By mid-afternoon, the wind builds providing pleasant sailing conditions. There are numerous locations with stronger gusts to demonstrate more advanced sailing skills safely.

Highlights

Harmony 42 Sailing Lefkas

Yachts

Our fully coded RYA Training Yachts in the Ionian are the perfect places to train and gain confidence as you work towards your goals. Below you can find full information on our 3 training yachts, Bartholome, Anna and Kos 469.

Dates and prices

Seafarer Training Greece 2024 Prices (per week)

*Saloon berth available on certain training yachts - £50 discount for saloon berth
Price per person, per weekSharing a cabin for 2*Special OfferSingle occupancy of a cabinSpecial Offer
14-April£795£1,250
21-April£795£1,250
28-April£795

£686 - Book Now!

£1,250£1,000
5-May£795

£686 - Book Now!

£1,250£1,000
12-May£795

£636 - Book Now!

£1,250£1,000
19-May£895

£716 - Book Now!

£1,350£1,080
26-May£895£1,350
2-June£895£1,350
9-June£895£1,350
16-June£895£1,350
23-June£895£1,350
30-June£995£1,450
7-July£995£1,450
14-July£995£1,450
21-July£995£1,450
28-July£995£1,450
4-August£995£1,450
11-August£995£1,450
18-August£995£1,450
25-August£995£1,450
1-September£995£1,450
8-September£995£1,450
15-September£895£1,350
22-September£895£1,350
29-September£895£1,350
6-October£895£1,350
13-October£895£1,350
20-October£895£1,350
27-October£795£1,250

10% multiple course discount applies when 2 or more courses are booked for an individual at the same time.

Whats Included

Small Yacht Icon6 Days Tuition with an RYA Instructor

Anchor IconMooring Fees

Diesel Fuel IconFuel & other yacht running costs

Linen and Towels IconBed Linen & towels

Notebook Icon for cruising notes£50 discount for RYA Day Skipper Theory

Salad and Kebabs icon for beach partyProvisions for breakfast & a light lunch

Optional Extras

Ensuite IconEnsuite Cabin – £50pp

Private IconMake the yacht private (4 pax) – 50% of 5th person price

ICCICC Assessment – £100pp (Stand alone)

Books iconCruising Scheme Logbook – Available here

Books iconCompetent Crew Skills Book – Available here

Books iconDay Skipper Course Notes – Available here

Along with shared courses, prices listed above we can also offer private tuition on a yacht of your choosing at any point during the season. Price for the instructor is £1,295 for the week plus they will need their own cabin on the yacht and food. Get in touch with our team for a bespoke private tuition quote.

Booking a Training Course

To book or check availability get in touch with our experienced team on one of the links below.

Getting there and away

There are a multitude of ways to travel to our base in Nikiana, whether you are joining us for the week or combining it with a larger trip. We are located in Nikiana Harbour, right in the heart of the village, which is easily reachable by both public and private transport. Courses in the Ionian run from Sunday to Sunday with training yachts being available to embark from around 14.00 onwards on the first day and disembarking around 9.00 at the end of the course. The instruction starts at 9.00 on the Monday morning and finishes at around 17.00 on the Saturday evening.

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ATOL protection

Your flight inclusive holiday with us (should you choose this option) is financially secure as we are ATOL licensed, making the entire package ATOL protected. We have been trading since 1995 so you can book with total confidence.

plane icon for flights and transfers

Flights

Sunday charter flights available from Gatwick alongside scheduled flights from Heathrow, Stanstead, Luton, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh. Flights to other European centres available both on Sundays and other days during the week.

Bus and taxi icon

Bus & Taxi

Direct Seafarer transfers from Preveza airport that takes roughly 30 minutes. Regular buses from Nikiana harbour to Nydri, Vassiliki and Lefkas town, from Lefkas town there are regular buses to Athens and Corinth plus less frequent services to Thessaloniki and Igoumenitsa.

Catamaran ferry icon

Ferry

Regular ferries from Kefalonia to Vassiliki (40 minutes from base) and from Meganisi to Nydri (10 minutes from base). Less frequent ferries from Corfu, Paxos, Kefalonia, Ithaca and Zante to Lefkas town (15 minutes from base).

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RYA courses

Croatia Training Centre

Categories:

Croatia Training Centre

RYA Yacht Training Centre Overview

Our RYA Yacht Training Centre, based in Split, offers the full range of RYA practical courses in the Sail Cruising scheme.

Our training Centre in Croatia offers more varied conditions, Whilst still being a popular holiday destination. You will encounter well-marked channels, IALA buoyage and larger marinas culminating in a challenging night sail. Providing you with the confidence to sail in a comprehensive range of destinations.

Reliable weather can be relied upon during the season between early May and late October, with temperatures ranging from the low 20s in the early/late season up to the high 30s in July and August.

Generally, the prevailing wind is from the North / North West, and the strength ranges from force 3 to force 5. Stronger sailing breezes can be expected in the afternoons, between 2 and 5pm. Due to the mountainous nature of the islands, you can usually count on some excellent local winds – your instructor will know where to be at the right time!

Want a more relaxed location? See also our Greece Training Centre.

For more information on the RYA, Seafarer and our standards of training, please take a look at our Training Centres page.

RYA Courses

From £895pp

RYA Competent Crew, Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper & Specialised Courses

RYA Training Centre

Training Alongside Our Flotilla

We have been delivering high quality yachting holidays for more than 25 years now, and we identified that many who learn how to sail exclusively in the UK find themselves without the skills necessary to fully enjoy a Mediterranean sailing holiday. Our two Mediterranean RYA Training Centres now operate alongside our Flotillas which, we believe, gives two major benefits.

Firstly most RYA courses are 5 days, and by conducting them over a week, we can create the right balance of tuition and fun. Children have a chance to meet other children and there is time to enjoy the social aspects of our Flotilla. We organise a variety of events including a welcome party, beach party and other activities or trips ashore to keep everyone entertained.

Secondly, if you are hoping to take your family or friends sailing in the future, Flotilla offers one of the best ways to do this. Learning alongside the Flotilla can be a real confidence boost, with an extra pair of hands to help when needed. While you learn to sail, you will meet other skippers who have already benefited from sailing with a flotilla. You’ll see how our flotillas work and see the benefits and flexibility this can offer you as you progress beyond tuition into the world of sailing.

Find out more about this flotilla here.

School Yacht Training

Courses start on Saturday where you will be greeted by your instructor and welcomed onboard. The tuition starts the next morning, and by Sunday lunchtime you’ll be away from base and ready to explore your first destination. Join the Flotilla at the punch party, and you can  share stories from your first day on the water.

The evening flotilla activities are entirely optional, and during the day, your instructor and fellow students will focus on the course syllabus. Breakfast and lunches are included giving you the time to focus on learning and having fun.

By the end of each day, you will be able to treat yourself to a well-earned drink and a meal. Sailing is a social sport, and an RYA sailing course can be a perfect way to make new friends. Our RYA instructors have been chosen for their friendly approach as well as their expertise. The time you spend with us is as much about fun as it is a learning experience.

Week-long courses

To see a breakdown of our syllabus and decide what course is right for you see here.

Private Tuition

If you would like more privacy or you would like a more individual experience, we also offer private tuition on all our courses. You’ll stay onboard a dedicated yacht with your party and your instructor. As always, the flotilla activities mentioned above are entirely optional, and you do not have to take part if you do not want to.

Our RYA instructor will guide you through the course of your choice.

For larger groups or families, this can work out the same price as our tuition yachts. You will also have access to our much larger fleet of yachts and be able to choose something to suit – perhaps a newer or larger yacht for your family.

This can also offer some flexibility in the itinerary if there is something particular you wanted to do. Your RYA instructor will be able to advise you on things you can do and see within the limits of the course objectives.

Courses To Suit All

Private tuition means more flexibility – as well as the full range of one week RYA courses, we can offer bespoke training to suit the needs of your party.

Private Tuition Costs

It’s simple, choose your flotilla or bareboat holiday and add an instructor at £1,350 per week. In addition, you will need to have a yacht large enough for a private cabin for the instructor and you are responsible for his or her food. If you are unsure as to whether to join flotilla or go bareboat, please give us a call and we can advise on the best options for you and your party.

2024 Dates and Prices

Price per person, per weekSaloon bunk (sofabed)Sharing a cabin for 2Single occupancy of a cabinSpecial Offer
4th May to 29th June£895£995+50%20% Discount
30th June to 28th September£995£1095+50%
29th September to 26th October£895£995+50%

Extras

  • £100 Ensuite cabin supplement (£50 per person)
  • 10% multiple course discount applies when 2 or more courses are booked for an individual at the same time.
  • ICC Assessment (3-4 hours) £100 per person (subject to availability)
  • £50 discount when you buy an online Navathome Theory Course

What's Included

  • 6 full days of tuition (Sunday to Friday)
  • Operating costs of the yacht (fuel, water, gas, mooring fees)
  • Provisioning for breakfasts, light lunches and snacks
  • Instruction from qualified Cruising Instructors and Yachtmaster Instructors
  • Bed linen and towels

Recommended Pre-course Material

Cruising Scheme Logbook G158 – Whilst we try to have these available for purchase in resort, we recommend that you purchase these prior to your course. You can purchase these from the RYA online shop.
Competent Crew Skills CCPCN – For those taking the Competent Crew Course
Day Skipper Practical Course Notes – For those taking the Day Skipper Practical Course

Additional Costs & Discounts

The Euro is the national currency. Food in the evening is not included. Generally, you can expect to pay around 30-40 Euro (£25-£35) per person for an evening meal, excluding drinks. Although most places take card, it is good practice to have enough cash with you to cover any bill. Cash points are available near our base in Split as well as most larger villages and towns. Your instructor knows precisely where and when you can get more, and they will keep you updated.

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The Seafarer Price Guarantee – We will not be beaten on price!

As an independent company, we are able to keep our prices highly competitive – if you see a like for like product featured elsewhere cheaper, let us know and we will beat it! This guarantee applies to yacht and accommodation rates on our Beach Club, Flotilla, Learn to Sail and & Cabin Charter programmes operated by Seafarer and is subject to availability at the time of booking.

Special Offers

april, 2024

Flights, Transfers & Location

Book your flights with us to ensure full financial protection for your holiday.

ATOL protection Your flight inclusive holiday with us is financially secure as we are ATOL licensed, making the entire package ATOL protected.  We have been trading since 1995 so you can book with total confidence.

All courses start and end on Saturday, there are direct flights to the nearest airport Split (SPU) from.

  • London
  • Manchester
  • Bristol
  • Belfast
  • Leeds
  • Newcastle

Flight time is approximately 2 hours.

The transfer time from the airport to the Yacht is about 45 minutes. We can arrange private or group transfers.

Our Tuition Yacht

Our primary tuition yacht in Split is a Dufour 44 Performance. With two double guest cabins (one with additional bunk accommodation), the yachts are never overcrowded. With an ample cockpit, wheel steering and spacious saloon, there is room for everyone to spread out and relax. The yacht is fully equipped with a music system with cockpit speakers, deck shower, hot water and all the safety equipment required to make your course safe, secure and relaxing.

Split training yacht
Training Yacht overview

Yacht Inventory

Sailing Inventory

  • Furling genoa
  • Battened mainsail with lazyjack system
  • Storm jib
  • Self-tailing winches
  • Spinnaker pole & spinnaker
  • Running rigging for pole triangulation

Safety Equipment

  • Radar
  • Croatian regulation life jackets
  • Slim line inflatable life jackets
  • Fixed DSC VHF radio + handheld VHF radio
  • Emergency VHF aerial
  • Jack Stays
  • Life Raft
  • 2 x Lifebuoy (with lights), Danbuoy and throwing line
  • Emergency tiller
  • Gas detector in saloon
  • Smoke detectors in each cabin

Navigation Equipment

  • GPS Chartplotter
  • Local area charts
  • Pilot book / Cruising guide, logbook
  • List of lights
  • Dividers, plotter, hand bearing compass
  • Binoculars
  • Pencils, rubber, sharpener, notepad

Exterior Equipment

  • Wheel steering
  • Bimini sun top
  • Sprayhood
  • Wind, speed & depth instruments
  • Electric windlass, bow anchor and chain
  • Mooring warps, spare warps, long line (50m)
  • Kedge anchor & chain
  • Dinghy and outboard engine
  • Cockpit cushions
  • Cockpit speakers
  • Cockpit shower
  • Bow thruster

Domestic Equipment

  • Plates, side plates, bowls and cutlery
  • Saucepans, frying pans, cooking utensils
  • Tea towels, kitchen roll, washing up liquid, bin bags
  • Glasses, mugs, cafatiere, corkscrew

Meet the Team

Oliver Korolija

Oliver Korolija

YMI, Chief Instructor

Simon King

Simon King

Cruising Instructor

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Seafarer Sailing & Windsurfing Academy

Categories:

Become a Professional RYA Watersports Instructor in just 6 WEEKS

Train on the Wonderful Island of Lefkas in a busy RYA Training Centre

Our fast-track Dinghy and Windsurf Instructor courses are designed for ambitious, energetic and enthusiastic people of all ages and all abilities who want the best introduction to the industry. The only prerequisites to joining one of our Professional Instructor Training Courses are a moderate swimming ability and a passion to learn new skills, although we also offer 4 and 2 week options for those with previous sailing or windsurfing experience. Our longer courses contain a week of work experience in a busy RYA Training Centre giving you the knowledge and confidence to start work as soon as you finish the course. 

However, you choose to utilise your newly gained instructor qualification we are here to help make it happen. We recognise that gaining your qualification is just the first part of the adventure, so we will always remain on hand to help you enjoy the rest of it!

Accommodation in Nikiana Beach Club

Shared Room Standard, Option for Private Room

Flights from London Airport Included

Flights from Worldwide Airports Available

Payment Plans Available

Confirm your place with a £95 Deposit

Huge Range of Equipment Available

Massive Range of Dinghies, Catamarans, SUPs, Kayaks & Windsurf Equipment

Full Social Program

Immerse yourself in the life of the wonderful island of Lefkas

Full Board Meal Plan as Standard

Healthy Options with Loads of Energy, Ideal for a Watersports Instructor

How the Course Runs

Week 1 & 2

The first two weeks are focused on honing your personal watersports skills. You will learn to sail or windsurf in an exciting and thorough way working your way through Dinghy Level 1, 2 and 3 for Sailing or Start and Intermediate for Windsurfing. These two weeks will be intense, with a lot of on-water time and professional coaching in order to fine tune your skills.

Week 3

Those with Level 3 or relevant Sailing / Windsurf Experience will join at the beginning of week 3 and during this time we start focusing more on the Instructing side of the course commencing with the Powerboat Level 2 Course and the Assistant Instructor Course along with practise and clinics to make your personal sailing razor sharp.

Week 4

Using the skills learned in weeks 1 to 3 the 4th week will be doing work experience. You’ll become a vital part of a team working in an RYA Training Centre for a busy week helping with RYA Courses, Sessions, Safety Boat Driving and the overall running of the centre. This experience really matters when it comes to finding employment and working effectively in a centre environment.

Week 5

Following a week of work experience Week 5 is all about getting ready for the Pre Entry Assessment and the Instructor Course that follows. Sailors will do the Seamanship Skills and Sailing with Spinnakers modules and Windsurfers Non-Planing Carve Gybe and Beach Start Clinics with everyone doing their RYA First Aid Course. We will also cover some of the Theory Topics required on the Club Yacht to help the understanding.

Week 6

Week 6 kicks off with the Pre-Entry Assessment (Sailing Only) then 5 days of the instructor course with an RYA Coach or Trainer. The pre-entry tests that your sailing skills are at the level required then the instructor courses teach the techniques needed to become an RYA Dinghy or Windsurf Instructor. Following the successful completion of the course, we’ll arrange a suitable celebration before starting as an RYA Instructor.

Dates & Prices

Course DatesCoursePrice
2024 Dates
1st September - 13th October6 Week Dinghy Academy£4,250
15th September - 13th October4 Week Dinghy Academy£3,250
29th September - 13th October2 Week Dinghy Academy£1,975
2025 Dates
11th May - 22nd June6 Week Dinghy Academy£4,250
25th May - 22nd June4 Week Dinghy Academy£3,250
8th June - 22nd June2 Week Dinghy Academy£1,975
31st August - 12th October6 Week Dinghy Academy£4,250
14th September - 12th October4 Week Dinghy Academy£3,250
28th September - 12th October2 Week Dinghy Academy£1,975
Single Room SupplementAll Courses£100 per week

Prices above are based on flights from a London Airport, Transfers to our Academy Base, Shared Accommodation in a Hotel,  all tuition and courses and full board catering. For flights from other destinations we can be very flexible so please feel free to get in touch for your perfect course. 6 & 4 week courses include RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA First Aid and RYA Safe & Fun. 2 Week courses just include RYA First Aid and RYA Safe & Fun.

Course DatesCoursePrice
2024 Dates
1st September - 13th October6 Week Dinghy Academy£3,950
15th September - 13th October4 Week Dinghy Academy£2,950
29th September - 13th October2 Week Dinghy Academy£1,675
2025 Dates
11th May - 22nd June 6 Week Dinghy Academy£3,950
25th May - 22nd June4 Week Dinghy Academy£2,950
8th June - 22nd June2 Week Dinghy Academy£1,675
31st August - 12th October6 Week Dinghy Academy£3,950
14th September - 12th October4 Week Dinghy Academy£2,950
28th September - 12th October2 Week Dinghy Academy£1,675
Single Room SupplementAll Courses£100 per week

Prices above are based on academy courses, shared accommodation in a hotel and full board catering. For flights from other destinations we can be very flexible so please feel free to get in touch for your perfect course. 6 & 4 week courses include RYA Powerboat Level 2, RYA First Aid and RYA Safe & Fun. 2 Week courses just include RYA First Aid and RYA Safe & Fun.

* 10% Early Booking Discount until end of December 2022

**All course only prices do not include accommodation but this is available as part of a Nikiana Beach Club holiday. Course dates are as follows:

  • RYA Dinghy Instructor – Pre Entry 14.00 Sunday 9th October, course 10th,11th,12th,13th & 14th October
  • RYA Powerboat Instructor – Skills Assessment 14.00 Sunday 9th October, course 12th,13th & 15th October
  • RYA Advanced Instructor – Course 10th & 11th October

The Seafarer Price Guarantee

We Will Not Be Beaten On Price !

The Seafarer Price Guarantee

As an independent company, we are able to keep our prices highly competitive – if you see a like for like product featured elsewhere cheaper, let us know and we will beat it!
This guarantee applies to yacht and accommodation rates on our Beach Club, Flotilla, Learn to Sail and & Cabin Charter programmes operated by Seafarer and is subject to availability at the time of booking.

For those booking before 31st May,  we will not impose any surcharges and we guarantee to honour the price confirmed to you at the time of booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the RYA?

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) is the UK governing body for sailing and windsurfing. The RYA is recognised internationally as the leading authority on sailing and windsurfing instruction. This means that  becoming an RYA Instructor really does open up a whole world of opportunity to you. Watersports companies all over the globe are aware that a qualified RYA instructor must comply to high standards of safety and must have an exceptional dedication to their pupils progression in watersports.

Once qualified, in addition to the support you will receive from the RYA, all Academy members will also gain ongoing support from Seafarer to increase your teaching experience, improve your personal skills and in time gain further instructor qualifications. The lines of communication between our Academy Team and our Academy Members always remain open to help you make the most out of your watersports career – whether you are just enjoying a gap year break or you are looking for a long term career, our friendly and professional Academy Team will happily support you on your journey.

What is an Instructor Training Course?

A Seafarer Academy Instructor Course is a fast track way to become an RYA Dinghy or Windsurf Instructor. First concentrating on learning to sail or windsurf it then moves into learning to become and instructor with work experience along the way.

What is an RYA Assistant Instructor Qualification?

Before starting work experience we offer RYA Assistant Instructor Qualification about halfway through the course. This allows you to assist with sessions while following the RYA Dinghy or Windsurf scheme along with preparing you for the Instructor Course to come.

Who Can Apply ?

Our fast-track Sailing and Windsurf Instructor courses are designed for ambitious, energetic and enthusiastic people of all ages and all abilities. The only prerequisites to joining one of our Instructor training course, are a moderate swimming ability and a passion to learn new skills. (Please note our minimum age to travel to Greece is 18) For those hoping to do shorter courses, a certain level of sailing or windsurfing ability is needed. Please give us a call to discuss.

What Qualifications & Skills Will I Gain?

The minimum course content for all students is listed below. The exact qualifications you gain will depend on your previous experience. All candidates will be able to ask for additional tuition to hone skills of their individual choice based on their personal preferences and their previous ability. Please note that no previous experience of sailing or windsurfing is needed.

Sailing Qualifications

  • RYA Level 1 Start Sailing
  • RYA Level 2 Basic Skills
  • RYA Level 3 Better Sailing
  • RYA Seamanship Skills
  • RYA Sailing with Spinnakers
  • RYA Assistant Dinghy Instructor
  • RYA Dinghy Instructor

Windsurfing Qualifications

  • RYA Start Windsurfing
  • RYA Intermediate Non-Planing
  • RYA Non Planing Carve Gybe Clinic
  • RYA Beach Start Clinic
  • RYA Start Windsurf Instructor

All candidates will gain

  • RYA Powerboat Level 2
  • RYA First Aid
  • Safe and Fun Safeguarding Module
  • Yacht Based Theory Tuition in relevant topics
  • Personal Coaching areas that need improvement
  • Work Experience in active RYA Centre
  • Professional Use of VHF Radios
  • Careers Advice & Employment Opportunities

The course aims to ensure a 100% pass rate for all Academy Members, however please note that if your instructor skills are not quite strong enough at the time of moderation then you will receive an RYA Action Plan. The Action Plan is issued with specific goals for you to achieve in order to finalise your instructor qualification. The Action Plan is designed to help build your confidence and to regulate standards within the RYA system. It is created as a support for trainee instructors and should be viewed as an aid not as a critique or a fail. If an Action Plan is issued then the Academy Team will always support you in achieving your goals and becoming qualified. However in such cases that an Action Plan is issued due to a lack of effort, attendance or commitment to your training then any further assistance will be at the discretion of the Academy Team.

What is Included in the Price?

Return flights, Transfers to/from hotel, Accommodation (shared twin with en suite facilities), Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Unlimited Equipment Use, All Required Safety Equipment, Sailing or Windsurf Instructor Training, Instructor Assessment, RYA Logbooks, RYA Certification, First Aid Manual.

Do I have to be an RYA Member?

All RYA Instructors must be RYA members. Therefore before embarking on your instructor course in Greece please ensure that you join the RYA. This is between £20 – £50 a year ( depending on age ) and holds many benefits for you once you are qualified. RYA Membership is not included in the price of your course. Follow this link for more details:

http://www.rya.org.uk/joinrenew/types-prices/pages/howmuch.aspx

What is the Pre-course Instructor Pack?

Once you have decided to join the Seafarer Academy and have paid your £590 deposit you will receive your Pre-Course Instructor Pack.. The Instructor Pack includes all you need to know before you head to Greece.
Contents includes: Welcome Letter, What to Pack List, Work Experience Request Form, Employment Request Form, Flight Information, Accommodation Details, How to Apply for Funding/Grants Information, Invite to Members Facebook Page

How do I Book?

You can reserve your space on the Seafarer Academy with a £95 Initial Deposit followed by the remainder of the £595 deposit within 2 weeks of booking. We can then arrange a payment plan which spreads the payments over a number of months leading up to the course.

To book and secure a space call fill out the form below, call 0208 324 3118  or email [email protected]

How To Apply For Grants?

There are in fact a large number of organisations that offer financial assistance to a variety of causes. Regardless of your social circumstance or income everyone is eligible to apply for grants at various charities and trusts. Of course getting a Grant does require some time and effort. You will have to search the internet and apply to a large number of organisations. Typically grants for individuals can range from £50 – £2,500.

  • STEP 1) Type into your search engine key phrases such as:Vocational Training Grants
    Funding for Personal Development
    Grants for Outdoor Education Training
  • STEP 2) You will find many useful websites such as the below:
  • STEP 3) Your local library, often overlooked these days, will be a great source of information. The library clerks should be able to point you in the direction of a Local and/or National Guide listing trusts and charitable foundations. National ones to look out for include:
    • The Educational Grants Directory
    • The Grants Register
    • A Guide to Grants for Individuals in Need
    • The Youth Funding Guide
    • Directory of Grant Making Trusts
  • STEP 4) Be prepared to commit time to this process. Apply to as many places as possible, by phone, letter or email. Remember you may have to work hard to receive a grant, but it really is possible to gain valuable financial assistance to help you complete your ambition of becoming a professional watersports instructor. An example of some key phrases and text to use when applying for grants:
    • The Seafarer Academy provides Vocational Training for the outdoor industry.
    • The Seafarer Academy teaches all the necessary skills to become a professional RYA Watersports Instructor, responsible for the safety and skills development of watersports novices.
    • The valuable instructor skills learnt at the Seafarer Academy are directly transferable to many other job roles in life, in particular within the formal education system.
    • The use of Outdoor Education, such as the Seafarer Academy delivers, is proven to be an excellent tool for personal development.
    • Among other things Outdoor Training teaches strong team building skills, it encourages acceptance of responsibility and it intrinsically improves communication abilities. All of which are key life skills.

What sort of Socials will be organised as part of the course?

This is a professional training course so we tend to party all the time but we organise regular fun social events throughout the 6 weeks. Below are a couple of sample events you might see as part of the Academy

  • Sunset Yacht Cruise with Fizz and Nibbles
  • Sail Away with Beach BBQ on a deserted Island
  • Evening Paddleboard trip to the Island of Agia Nicolaos
  • Meals out in Nydri, Lefkas and Vassiliki
  • Social Dinners, BBQs and Weekly Quizes
  • Trips around the wonderful island of Lefkas

How Can I Find Out More and Ask More Questions?

How Can I Book?
Call:             02083 243 118
Email:          [email protected]
Web:            www.seafarersailing.co.uk/booking.html