Learn to Sail Level 1: Start Sailing

Introduction to handling the sails in order to get the boat moving safely and under control. Students learn about the points of sail, sail trim, how to rig, hoisting and lowering sails, reefing the mainsail, furling and hoisting/dropping the genoa, and how to handle the sails while tacking and gybing the boat.

Students learn how to helm the boat while under power and under sail both upwind and downwind, the effect of wind and tide on boat handling, how to ‘heave to’, and boat balance and trim.

Students learn the role of the crew to safely leave and return to a berth under power. This section covers the correct use of lines to effectively secure the boat to the dock.

Students learn about different types of anchors and suitability for seabed types, how to prepare the boat for anchoring, scope calculations and practice anchoring safely.

Focus on safe and speedy action for crew overboard scenarios under power and under sail, plus basic emergency communication and response.

Start speaking in ‘sailor’ by learning correct terms for parts of the boat and common terminology used on the water.

Covers proper line coiling, cleat use, safe winch operation, and how to tie: figure eight, round turn & two half hitches, clove hitch, reef knot, sheet bend, rolling hitch and bowline.

Covers the basic ‘rules of the road’ to avoid collisions at sea and give right-of-way scenarios.

Introduction to use and location of life jackets, first aid kit, fire extinguishers, safety harnesses, VHF radio, depth sounder, GPS, flares, liferaft, and emergency procedures.

Students learn appropriate clothing for conditions, preventing hypothermia, stowage of equipment, keeping a proper watch, marine etiquette, locating and interpreting weather forecasts, and deciding whether to sail.

The importance of locating good weather forecasts, understanding their meaning and making a decision about whether to sail or not is covered in this section.