RYA Sailing Courses
Set sail with confidence at our RYA‑accredited centre, where children and adults can learn, grow, and have a fantastic time on the water. Our multi‑day RYA sailing courses are designed to build skills and spark a real love for sailing—whether you're completely new or working towards Stage 4 (children) or Level 2 (adults), West Reservoir has the course for you!
With expert instructors, a friendly atmosphere, and plenty of hands‑on time in the boat, you’ll gain confidence, develop new abilities, and most importantly, have fun! Join us on the water and discover the excitement of sailing.
RYA Stage 1 Sailing - Youth
A fantastic introduction to sailing for kids.
Duration:
2 days — 09:30 - 16:30
About:
This two‑day course gives young people an exciting and practical introduction to the world of sailing. Children will learn essential skills including rigging, launching and recovering their boat, basic ropework, key sailing techniques, and core manoeuvres. They’ll also gain confidence through supervised capsize and recovery practice. It’s the perfect blend of learning, fun, and adventure on the water!
All participants will recieve a RYA Sailing Log book and Stage 1 certificate on successful completion of the course.
RYA Stage 2 Sailing - Youth
An amazing course for kids to build and boost their sailing skills.
Duration:
3 days — 09:30 - 16:30
About:
This three‑day course helps young sailors develop both their practical and theoretical skills on the water. Building on the foundations from Stage 1, participants will refine key techniques such as rigging, launching and recovering their boat, ropework, manoeuvres, and sailing techniques. They will also take part in supervised capsize and recovery practice.
Sailors will learn new skills too such as man overboard drills. On successful completion of the course, participants will receive their RYA Stage 2 certificate.
RYA Stage 3 Sailing - Youth
A great course for kids ready to take their sailing to the next level.
Duration:
3 days — 09:30 - 16:30
About:
This three‑day course is perfect for young sailors who are confident on the water and ready to refine their skills and take greater control of the boat. Building on Stages 1 and 2, participants will refine their rigging, launching, and recovery techniques, as well as developing more advanced ropework and sailing manoeuvres.
With plenty of time on the water, sailors will work on upwind and downwind sailing, improving boat handling, and gaining a stronger understanding of speed control and sailing theory. Supervised capsize and recovery will continue to build confidence and independence.
On successful completion, participants will achieve their RYA Stage 3 certificate.
RYA Stage 4 Sailing - Youth
A dynamic course for young sailors aiming for advanced skills.
Duration:
3 days — 09:30 - 16:30
About:
This three‑day course is designed for confident young sailors ready to master more advanced sailing techniques. Building on Stage 3, participants will focus on refining boat handling, improving sail setting for different conditions, and developing strong decision‑making on the water.
Sailors will work on efficient tacking and gybing, advanced steering techniques, and controlling the boat in varying wind strengths. The course also develops a deeper understanding of sailing theory, rules, and practical seamanship.
Upon successful completion, participants will achieve their RYA Stage 4 certificate
Adult Sailing
RYA Level 1 Sailing - Adult
Discover the thrill of sailing with our RYA Level 1 Sailing course for adults. This beginner‑friendly course introduces you to the essentials of boat handling, rigging, steering, and sailing in all directions. With plenty of hands‑on time on the water and guidance from our experienced instructors, you’ll build confidence, learn key skills, and enjoy the excitement of being out on the water. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation to continue your sailing journey.
Duration: 2 days 09:30 - 16:30
Certificate: RYA Level 1 (Start Sailing)
RYA Level 2 Sailing - Adult
Build on your sailing foundations with our RYA Level 2 course for adults. Over 2 days, you’ll develop greater control and confidence on the water as you refine your steering, sail setting, boat handling, and manoeuvres in a variety of conditions.
With hands‑on coaching from our experienced instructors, you’ll progress from basic techniques to more independent sailing, gaining the skills needed to helm a boat confidently.
Duration: 2 days 09:30 - 16:30
Prerequisite: RYA Level 1 or equivalent experience
Certificate: RYA Level 2 (Basic Skills)
North London Sailing Association (NLSA)
North London Sailing Association (NLSA)
The NLSA is an association open to all who want to sail. Sailing times are Sundays 11am till 2pm and during British summer time, Tuesdays 6pm till 8pm. While members can simply enjoy a relaxing sail, they also organise informal training sessions and races in which everyone is encouraged to take part, whatever their level of ability.
Use of the boats is included in the membership fee. The only requirements for membership are that you are at least 8 years old and hold RYA Level 2 or Youth Sailing Stage 3 or equivalent.
For more information please visit the NLSA Website
