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RYA Training Centre Greece

Learn to sail in Greece: RYA courses in Kefalonia

Learn to sail at our RYA training centre in Greece. Calm Ionian waters, expert RYA instruction and a holiday atmosphere then take you from beginner to qualified skipper.

Ionian Sea · Kefalonia · Agia Eufimia

Dates & prices See the courses

  • RYA accredited
  • Ionian Sea · Kefalonia
  • ATOL protection
Days of tuition per course
6
Max student to instructor ratio
5:1
Courses from per person
£795
Season runs April to October
April – October

Learn to Sail in Greece

Our RYA Training Centre in Greece: Learn to Sail and Qualify as a Skipper

RYA Training CentreAccredited courses taught by RYA-qualified instructors

Learn to sail in Greece, where calm Ionian waters and relaxed island life make training feel like a holiday. At our RYA training centre in Greece, accredited courses also combine expert instruction with warm hospitality.

As a result, beginners gain the confidence to skipper their own yacht in some of the most welcoming sailing destinations in the world. All courses are run in English.

Why Greece

Why Learn to Sail in Greece

01

Calm Waters

Sheltered Ionian bays are beautiful and safe, so they are ideal for first-time sailors.

02

Supportive Atmosphere

Our experienced instructors and friendly base team also help every student feel comfortable and confident.

03

Steady Progress

Short routes provide constant practice in relaxed conditions, so skills build naturally day by day.

04

Expert Guidance

Seafarer’s RYA-accredited instructors teach in small groups, so you build skill and confidence at your own pace.

05

Learning That Feels Like a Holiday

Sunshine and easy daily routines also make progress feel natural. In fact, most students don’t want to leave.

Seafarer training yacht under sail in Greece with students on deck

RYA Courses

RYA Sailing Courses Available in Greece

Six RYA courses, from your first day on a yacht to Coastal Skipper. Find your level below and choose your next qualification.

Beginner

No sailing experience needed

RYA Start Yachting course on a Seafarer training yachtStep 1 · Practical

RYA Start Yachting

A taster of yachting for beginners, or for budding sailors too young for Competent Crew.

  • Normally a 2-day course in the UK
  • Run over a week at our Mediterranean schools
  • Time for learning and time for fun

2–6 days · Age 8+View course

RYA Competent Crew course students on a Seafarer training yachtStep 2 · Practical

RYA Competent Crew

Learn the basics and become an active member of the crew rather than a passenger.

  • Ideal for complete beginners
  • A fun and immersive course
  • Formalises your crewing experience

5–6 days · Age 12+View course

Intermediate

For sailors ready to learn to skipper

RYA Day Skipper shorebased theory course, studied onlineStep 3 · Theory

RYA Day Skipper Shorebased

A comprehensive introduction to sailing theory, studied online.

  • Coastal navigation, pilotage and chartwork
  • Weather forecasting and meteorology
  • Collision regulations and electronic navigation

40–45 hours onlineView course

RYA Sailing Courses RYA Day Skipper PracticalStep 4 · Practical

RYA Day Skipper Practical

The most popular RYA course, and the standard required to skipper a yacht in many destinations worldwide.

  • For aspiring skippers with some yachting experience
  • Builds on essential theory and sailing skills
  • Makes you eligible for the ICC

5–6 days · Age 16+View course

Advanced

For experienced skippers

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore theory course, studied onlineStep 5 · Theory

RYA Coastal / YM Offshore Shorebased

Advanced theory for the Coastal Skipper practical course and the Yachtmaster Offshore exam.

  • Revision of the Day Skipper theory
  • Offshore and coastal navigation by day and night
  • Pilotage and meteorology

Approx 60 hours onlineView course

RYA Coastal Skipper course on a Seafarer training yachtStep 6 · Practical

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical

Takes your practical skills to the next level, on longer coastal and offshore passages.

  • Passage planning
  • Advanced yacht handling under sail and power
  • Heavy weather sailing and emergency situations

5–6 days · Age 17+View course

Sailing Area

Explore the Ionian Islands on Our Sailing Courses

From our RYA training centre in Greece, you discover the sheltered waters around Kefalonia and Ithaca, in the heart of the Ionian Sea. Gentle afternoon breezes, short island hops and well-protected harbours also make this one of the most enjoyable sailing areas in Greece.

  • TemperatureLow 20s to Mid-30s °CLow 20s °C in spring and autumn, rising to mid-30s °C in July and August.
  • WindsForce 2–5, Learner FriendlyGentle in the morning and building through the afternoon, so it is ideal for building skills progressively.
  • Sea StateMostly Protected WatersSheltered options for beginners, while open-water routes are available farther north or south for advanced practice.
Map of the Ionian sailing area

Weather & Sailing Conditions in Greece

Overall, the Ionian offers reliable, learner-friendly weather from spring to autumn. Calm mornings are ideal for manoeuvres, whereas stronger afternoon breezes build confidence under sail.

  • Temperature: Low 20s °C in spring and autumn, rising to mid-30s °C in July and August.
  • Winds: Generally Force 2–5, gentle in the morning and then building through the afternoon.
  • Sea state: Mostly protected, although open-water options exist farther north or south for advanced practice.
  • Training value: Calm mornings for manoeuvres, then stronger afternoon breezes to build confidence under sail.

Ionian Highlights

Highlights of Sailing in Greece

  • Agiofili beach and turquoise water on Lefkada, Greece

    Lefkada

    Connected by a bridge to the Greek mainland, Lefkada (or Lefkas) is a green and verdant island known for its spectacular beaches, stunning mountains, and turquoise waters. An easy sail north from our Kefalonia base, Lefkada makes a great destination for a longer passage on the beautiful Ionian.

  • Assos village and its peninsula on Kefalonia, Greece

    Kefalonia

    Home to our Seafarer Training base at Agia Eufimia on its sheltered east coast, Kefalonia is a breathtaking island in the Ionian Sea, boasting dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes. Explore its charming towns and villages, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and uncover the island’s rich history and natural wonders.

  • Kioni harbour and beach on Ithaca, Greece

    Ithaca

    Sitting just off Kefalonia is steeped in myth and history, known as the legendary home of Odysseus from Homer’s Odyssey. Explore its rugged beauty, hike through olive groves, and visit the enchanting village of Vathi plus others for the captivating ambiance of this Ionian gem

  • Sunset over a sheltered bay on Meganisi, Ionian Islands

    Meganisi

    Meganisi, a small island in the Ionian Sea, captivates with its unspoiled charm and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Explore its secluded coves and picturesque villages for an authentic Greek island experience.

  • Turquoise cove below a house on Kastos, Ionian Islands

    Smaller Islands

    The small islands of the Ionian Sea offer serene beauty and tranquil escapes. Discover hidden gems of Atokos, Kalamos, Kastos, among other and enjoy pristine beaches in this idyllic archipelago.

Training Fleet

Our RYA Training Yachts in Greece

Above all, our fully coded RYA training yachts in the Ionian are the perfect vessels to train and gain confidence. Meet Bartholome and Anna, which are also your home for the week.

  • Harmony 42 Bartholome, a Seafarer RYA training yacht

    Harmony 42 Bartholome

    Year
    2008
    Sail Plan
    Battened Main / Roller Genoa
    Cabins/Max berths
    3 cabins / 6 berths
    Heads
    2
  • Harmony 42 Anna, a Seafarer training yacht at our RYA training centre in Greece

    Harmony 42 Anna

    Year
    2008
    Sail Plan
    Battened Main / Roller Genoa
    Cabins/Max berths
    3 cabins / 6 berths
    Heads
    2

Book Your Course

Dates and Prices: RYA Sailing Courses in Greece

Seafarer Training Greece - 2026 & 2027 Prices per person

2027 Dates at 2026 Prices
Course DateSharing a cabin for 2Special OfferSaloon BerthSpecial OfferSingle occupancy of a cabinSpecial OfferCourses
18-April-2027£995£795£1,445SY, CC, DS, CS*
25-April-2027£995£795£1,445SY, CC, DS, CS*
2-May-2027£995£795£1,445SY, CC, DS, CS*
9-May-2027£995£795£1,445SY, CC, DS, CS*
16-May-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
23-May-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
30-May-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
6-June-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
13-June-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
20-June-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
27-June-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
4-July-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
11-July-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
18-July-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
25-July-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
1-August-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
8-August-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
15-August-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
22-August-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
29-August-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
5-September-2027£1,195£995£1,755SY, CC, DS, CS*
12-September-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
19-September-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
26-September-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
3-October-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
10-October-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
17-October-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
24-October-2027£1,095£895£1,555SY, CC, DS, CS*
Practical CourseDescription Ideal for
SYStart YachtingYounger children, those looking just to relax
CCCompetent CrewChildren 12 or over, adults wanting to learn
DSDay SkipperThose wishing to skipper as part of a flotilla
CSCoastal Skipper* Enquire for availabilityMore experienced sailors, ideal for bareboat charter

Big Boat Training Greece 2026 & 2027 Prices (per week)

Price per person, per weekSharing a cabin for 2Special OfferSingle occupancy of a cabinSpecial Offer
14th Nov 2026£995£895£1,415£1,215
21st Nov 2026£995£895£1,415£1,215
28th Nov 2026£995£895£1,415£1,215
6th Mar 2027£995£1,415
13th Mar 2027£995£1,415
20th Mar 2027£995£1,415
27th Mar 2027£995£1,415

Catamaran Training 2027 Prices (per week)

2027 dates and prices
Price per person, per weekSharing a cabin for 2Single occupancy of a cabin
16 May 2027£1,495£1,995
8 August 2027£1,795£2,245
29 August 2027£1,795£2,245
19 September 2027£1,645£2,145
10 October 2027£1,495£1,995

Private Tuition 2026 & 2027 Prices (per week)

PeriodPrivate UseSpecial Offer
April, May & June£4,950
July, August & September£5,375
October£4,950

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

What’s Included

Everything Included in Your Sailing Course in Greece

  • 6 Days Tuition with an RYA Instructor
  • Fuel & other yacht running costs
  • Mooring Fees
  • Bed Linen & towels
  • £50 discount for RYA Day Skipper Theory
  • Provisions for breakfast & a light lunch

Optional Extras

Enhance Your Sailing Course in Greece

  • Ensuite Cabin — £50 per person
  • Private yacht (max 5 pax) — 4.5 x single person price
  • ICC Assessment — £100 per person (standalone)
  • Cruising Scheme Logbook — Available here
  • Competent Crew Skills Book — Available here
  • Day Skipper Course Notes — Available here

Along with shared courses, we can also offer private tuition on a yacht of your choosing at any point during the season. Price for the instructor is £1,495 for the week plus their own cabin on the yacht and food. Get in touch with our team for a bespoke private tuition quote.

Your Instructors

Meet the Instructor Team

  • Tryston Green, chief instructor

    Tryston Green — Yachtmaster Instructor & Chief Instructor

    Tryston hails from South Africa and is now into his third season with Seafarer, taking the helm this year as chief instructor. Because he has Southern Ocean sailing in his blood and a wealth of local knowledge in the Ionian, Seafarer Training is in very safe hands. Tryston also has overall responsibility for all course delivery in Agia Eufimia, ensuring that all courses are both safe and fun.

  • Danny Norcott, RYA Cruising Instructor

    Danny Norcott — RYA Cruising Instructor

    We are delighted to welcome Danny back to the Seafarer team. He has recently qualified as an RYA Cruising Instructor and brings bags of enthusiasm. With plenty of local experience and seasons as a flotilla skipper under his belt, Danny is also looking forward to sharing his knowledge with our students in the Ionian this season.

  • Alex Lord, RYA Cruising Instructor at Seafarer Training in Agia Eufimia, Kefalonia

    Alex Lord — Cruising Instructor

    Alex is also new to the team, having recently qualified as a Cruising Instructor. His passion for sailing has grown steadily, while his background in hospitality and engineering provides a solid footing for his sailing career.

  • Christian Weglehner, RYA Cruising Instructor at Seafarer Training in Agia Eufimia, Kefalonia

    Christian Weglehner — Cruising Instructor

    Similarly, Chris joins the team, having recently qualified as a Cruising Instructor. He can’t wait to share his knowledge with our students.

Training Centre Details

Training Centre Name
Seafarer Training
Centre Location
Agia Eufimia Harbour, 28081, Agia Eufimia, Kefalonia, Greece.
Chief Instructor
Mr Tryston Green
School principal
Mr John Connolly
Head office Contact Number
(+44) 208 324 3118

Travel

Getting to Our RYA Training Centre in Greece

Our RYA training centre in Greece is at Agia Eufimia Harbour, on the east coast of Kefalonia, so it is easy to reach by air or road. Courses generally run Sunday to Sunday. You embark from 17:00 on arrival day, then disembark around 09:00 on departure day. Instruction runs from Monday at 09:00 to Saturday at 17:00.


  • Flights

    There are Sunday charter flights from Gatwick, as well as scheduled flights from Heathrow, Stansted, Luton, Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester and Edinburgh.


  • Bus & Taxi

    Following your flight, direct Seafarer transfers from Kefalonia Airport take roughly 1 hour. Local buses also run from Agia Eufimia to Argostoli, the island capital.


  • Ferry

    Regular ferries run to Sami (10 min from base) from Ithaca and Astakos, as well as to Fiskardo (40 min from base) from Vassiliki on Lefkada.

FAQs about Learning to Sail in Greece

Straight answers to the questions we are asked most about learning to sail in Greece.

Still have a question?

Speak to our sailing school team, or pick your dates and ask for a quote.

020 8324 3118 Get a quote

Do I need any sailing experience?

No. In fact, our RYA Competent Crew and Start Yachting courses are ideal for beginners who want to learn to sail in Greece.

How long is the course?

You’ll be in Greece for 7 nights, and our courses run for 6 training days, Monday to Saturday. As a result, you’ll have plenty of time to train and relax under the Ionian sun.

Will I earn an RYA qualification?

As long as you meet the standards set by the RYA, yes. Courses are RYA-accredited, so you’ll receive the correct certificate once your instructor confirms your competence.

Where will I stay?

You’ll live on board the training yacht during your course. The operating costs of the training yacht are also included, so it is a comfortable and stress-free sailing experience.

When is the best time to learn to sail in Greece?

Our summer training season runs from April to October, so there are plenty of dates to choose from. Early and late months are cooler, with more variable conditions, while summer offers warm water and more predictable breezes.

Which airport should I fly to?

Fly to Kefalonia International Airport (EFL). It’s the closest airport, with direct Sunday flights from Gatwick, Stansted, Bristol, Nottingham, Birmingham and Manchester. Seafarer transfers then take around an hour to reach the Agia Eufimia base. If Seafarer arranges your flights, your entire package is ATOL-protected.

What's included in the price?

Your course fee covers tuition, yacht accommodation, fuel, bed linen, shower towels, provisioning for breakfast and light lunches, and all essential training materials.

Is the course suitable for solo travellers?

Yes, absolutely. Many students join alone, because small groups and shared accommodation create a friendly, supportive atmosphere on board.

Which RYA course should I start with?

If you have never sailed, start with RYA Competent Crew (adults, and children aged 12 or over). Younger children, or anyone who simply wants to relax and try sailing, can join RYA Start Yachting. With some experience, RYA Day Skipper teaches you to skipper a yacht, for example on a flotilla, and RYA Coastal Skipper is for more experienced sailors (enquire for availability). Not sure? Call us on 020 8324 3118 and we will help you choose.

Is Seafarer an RYA recognised training centre?

Yes. Our training centre in Greece is RYA accredited, and our Chief Instructor, Tryston Green, is an RYA Yachtmaster Instructor.

Where is the RYA training centre in Greece?

At Agia Eufimia Harbour (28081 Agia Eufimia) on the sheltered east coast of Kefalonia, in the Ionian Sea. See “Getting to our RYA training centre in Greece” above for flights, buses, taxis and ferries.

Book Your Course

Ready to Learn to Sail in Greece?

To book or check availability, get in touch with our experienced team. You might also like our Croatia and UK training centres, or our overview of the RYA Yachtmaster scheme.

Call or email us

Request a quote

Tell us your dates and party size, and we’ll then come back to you with availability and prices.

Peace of mind

Book with confidence

Every payment you make to us is financially protected, from deposit to balance. Holidays with flights are covered by our ATOL licence, and holidays without flights by our ABTOT membership. Trading since 1995.


  • ATOL Protected — Licence 9511

    All flight-inclusive holidays are fully ATOL protected


  • ABTOT Member — No. 5660

    Additional protection for bookings without flights