Welcome to RAFSA (Dinghy) Training

Key to making any sailor more proficient at sea, more confident leading a crew and any race boat faster, is constant learning and training. Having the right skills is essential and draws out qualities of team work, endurance, and determination, while teaching people to manage risk

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Upcoming Training Courses

Stepping into the world of sailing for the first time is exciting and exhilarating. We offer training at a variety of levels, so everyone has a chance to get involved and improve their skills.

YOU NEED TO BE A RAFSA MEMBER AND LOGGED IN TO THE WEBSITE BEFORE BOOKING ONTO A COURSE DATE.

BECOME A MEMBER

All of our Courses are open to serving RAF Regular and Reserve personnel, veterans, RNSA, ASA Members and their dependents. Additionally, civilians who are ineligible to join RAFSA may be accepted on a fill-up basis. We welcome novice and expert sailors alike and deliver a broad range of RYA qualifications, from beginner to instructor.

RYA Start Sailing/Basic Skills Course

RYA Intermediate/Advance Course

RYA Spinnaker Course

RYA Start Racing Course

Dinghy Instructor

Location

We are a sailing centre of excellence for training and development and endorsed by the RYA as a National Sailing Academy.

Go sailing. Savour the friendly atmosphere, good food and company. And at the end of the day, enjoy the stunning views from the balcony of the Clubhouse, recalling your experience from the day.

Rutland SC

The best inland sailing in the UK

Cruise the 3000 acres of safe, non-tidal water. Compete in a championship. Enjoy club racing and social activities. Learn or improve sailing skills, or simply have fun with family and friends. Whatever your sailing interest, Rutland Sailing Club has the best to offer.

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RYA Certification Plymouth

FAQs

Please get in touch for any further questions.

Beginners should attend Competent Crew. This will give you a feel for the sport and hopefully you’ll soon be desperate to come back for more. Students can then work their way up through the courses based on feedback from instructors. The aim isn’t to rush through, but enjoy some time at sea and leave plenty of time to develop in-between.

Which course should I attend?

Some students with a good amount of experience, or large dinghy sailing background do find it possible to jump straight in at competent crew. We would normally advise around 2 good quality weeks on a yacht and a good knowledge of sails and navigation. You will also need to complete the Day Skipper shore based course, or a substantial amount of self study in advance. Ultimately this depends on your own confidence levels, our instructors can assess your performance throughout and advise accordingly.

Can I skip Competent Crew if I already have some experience?

Information will be supplied in the Joining Instructions. Students will be provided with a waterproof jacket and trousers but the following should be considered, along with the seasonal conditions:

  • Wellies or non-marking trainers
  • Thermals, socks
  • Warm hat
  • Gloves
  • Bedding
What kit do I need to bring?

We run largely on a first come first served basis, however military students retain priority. Please apply on the appropriate course page.

You will have to pay for your place on booking and you will receive confirmation from the training officer within 7 days. Joining Instructions will be sent out 8 weeks prior to a course, please contact the training officer if you have any further questions.

How do I know if my place is accepted.

Yes! You attend these courses as Sport/AT subject to line manager approval.

Does this count as military duty?

Dinghy Training Committee

Position Name
Training Principal Joe Litten
Training Team MultiUser
Training Officer Paul Day
Training Team John Thompson

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