Adult Sailing Courses at Oxford Sail Training Trust
Introduction
Our adult sailing courses are designed for every experience level, from complete beginners to confident helms. Led by qualified instructors on a safe, inland lake, each course offers structured development, practical coaching and the freedom to enjoy time on the water. Whether you’re looking to build skills, explore racing or simply sail for pleasure, we have a course to help you progress. You can also explore our Instructor Training options if you’re interested in taking sailing further.
FREE Dinghy Taster
If you’re curious about sailing but not quite ready to book a full course, this short taster session is for you. You’ll spend time with a qualified instructor, learn the basics and explore the facilities.
- Previous experience required: None
- Course duration: 1 hour
- Course times: Typically offered in morning or afternoon slots
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: Not provided
Casual Coaching (Adult Sailing)
This flexible session is ideal for adults who want time on the water without the structure of a formal course. Whether you’re returning to sailing after a break, want to boost your confidence, or simply refine your technique with an instructor nearby, this informal format gives you space to learn at your own pace.
- Previous experience required: Level 2
- Course duration: 3 hours
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: Logbook to be brought to the session
Adult Level 1
Perfect for beginners, this course introduces the essentials of dinghy sailing in a calm, controlled setting. You’ll learn how to rig and launch a boat, steer across the wind and return safely to shore. With close instructor support throughout, it’s a relaxed and supportive way to take your first step onto the water.
- Previous experience required: None
- Course duration: 2 days
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: RYA Logbook provided
Adult Level 2
This course builds on Level 1, helping you develop the confidence to sail independently. You’ll cover tacking, gybing and manoeuvres in more challenging conditions, with a focus on safety and control. It’s the ideal next step for adults looking to move beyond the basics and become self-sufficient on the water.
- Previous experience required: RYA Level 1 course
- Course duration: 2 days
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: Logbook to be brought to the session
Adult Level 3
Level 3 is designed for those ready to sail with confidence in moderate conditions. You’ll refine core skills, build on seamanship techniques, and explore more advanced control. It’s a consolidation course that supports progress into spinnaker work, catamarans or Instructor Training for those considering a teaching pathway.
- Previous experience required: RYA Level 2 course
- Course duration: 2 days
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 8:1
- RYA Logbook: Logbook to be brought to the session
Adult Spinnaker Sailing
This advanced module introduces the use of spinnakers and focuses on performance sailing techniques. You’ll learn how to rig and launch the spinnaker, trim for speed, and control the boat under more powerful sail plans. A great progression for those keen on downwind performance.
- Previous experience required: RYA Level 3 or equivalent experience
- Course duration: 1 day
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: Logbook to be brought to the session
Adult Start Racing
Take your first steps into racing with a course focused on race starts, basic tactics and on-the-water decision making. You’ll learn how to read a course, manage boat position and work within the racing rules. The perfect way to join in with club-level events.
- Previous experience required: RYA Level 2 or Level 3 recommended
- Course duration: 2 days
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: Logbook to be brought to the session
Adult Catamaran Introduction
A fast-paced introduction to catamaran sailing for those ready to move beyond monohulls. Learn how to control a multihull’s speed, balance, and performance, with guidance on safe handling and trim. An exciting and rewarding course for confident dinghy sailors.
- Previous experience required: RYA Level 2 or similar experience
- Course duration: 1 day
- Course times: 09.30am–4.30pm
- Teaching ratio: 6:1
- RYA Logbook: Logbook to be brought to the session
FAQs for Adult Sailing Courses
You should bring a towel, swimwear, and old trainers or water shoes. We provide buoyancy aids, wetsuits, and all sailing equipment. You can find full details on our What to Bring page.
Yes. RYA Level 1 introduces basic skills. Level 2 builds on these and requires prior knowledge. However, you can book both together and receive a discount when booking via our Adult Sailing Courses page.
Absolutely. Our RYA Level 1 course is designed for people with no previous experience. It covers all the essentials in a relaxed, supportive environment.
