Sail Squad – RYA Sailing Courses in the Solent
From beginner to instructor, we offer the full range of RYA sailing courses, mile builders, and boat handling – all taught by expert instructors in small groups, with a truly personal approach.
RYA Training for All Levels
Located in Hamble, we run all RYA sailing courses, from your first time on board with Start Yachting or Competent Crew, to advanced qualifications like Yachtmaster or Cruising Instructor.
Start Yachting Course
The RYA Start Yachting Course is an ideal introduction for complete beginners who are eager to learn the basics of sailing in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Competent Crew Course
Sail Squad’s Competent Crew Course is designed to teach students helming skills, personal safety, and seamanship in a supportive and enjoyable environment.
Day Skipper Course
The RYA Day Skipper Course is a globally recognised qualification that prepares you to become a confident and capable decision-maker on the water.
Coastal Skipper Course
Join Sail Squad’s Coastal Skipper Practical Course for an immersive, hands-on training experience in the heart of the Solent, one of the UK’s busiest and most challenging sailing grounds.
Yachtmaster Offshore Fast-Track Course
Designed for complete novices, Sail Squads’ 18-week fast-track program takes students from zero sailing experience to holding the prestigious Yachtmaster Offshore (YMO) qualification – a globa
Yachtmaster Coastal Prep Course
Prepare for your RYA Yachtmaster Coastal exam with Sail Squad’s intensive 5-day preparation course in the UK’s challenging Solent waters.
Yachtmaster Offshore Prep Course
Achieving your RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate of Competence is a significant milestone in your sailing career.
Cruising Instructor Course
The RYA Cruising Instructor Course is an intensive 5-day training program located in the Solent.
Cruising Instructor Development Programme
Join Sail Squad’s 4-week Cruising Instructor Development Programme, a one-of-a-kind course designed to bridge the gap between Yachtmaster Offshore and becoming a confident RYA Cruising Instructor.<
Why Choose Sail Squad?
A Different Kind of Sailing School
At Sail Squad, you’re supported every step of the way, learning in a friendly, flexible environment designed to help you achieve your sailing goals with confidence. As a family-run RYA sailing school, we pride ourselves on delivering world-class instruction along with honest, genuine advice.
Our comprehensive range of courses and skills weekends means there’s something for every stage of sailing, from beginner to aspiring instructor.
Yachtmaster Fast-Track
From Zero to Hero, On Your Schedule
Need to get qualified fast? Our Yachtmaster Fast-Track programme is designed for ambitious learners who want to progress efficiently, without cutting corners.
At Sail Squad, every fast-track journey is unique. Join as a complete beginner, or jump in mid-way if you already have some experience.
Ideal for career changers, aspiring instructors, or anyone short on time.
Milebuilder Sailing Trips
Gain Sea Miles and Real Offshore Experience
Our 5 & 7 day milebuilding trips are designed to help you accumulate valuable sea miles, night hours, and hands-on sailing skills. These extended passages take you beyond the Solent, offering genuine offshore sailing with expert coaching every step of the way.
Perfect for Yachtmaster qualifying passages or newly qualified Day Skippers eager to explore further and build confidence at sea.
Cruising Instructor Courses
Expert Training to Take You from Yachtmaster to Instructor
At Sail Squad, we don’t just prepare you to pass; we prepare you to teach. Choose from two RYA Cruising Instructor pathways, both led by our owner and lead trainer, one of just 44 certified CI Trainers worldwide.
- The 1-week Cruising Instructor course and exam: Qualifies you to teach Start Yachting, Competent Crew and Day Skipper.
- Our unique 4-week Cruising Instructor Development Programme: Includes shadowing a live course, theory and lesson planning, participating in the CI course itself, and the opportunity to teach a full course alongside an experienced instructor.
Whether you’re ready to dive straight in or want extra support to build confidence, we’ve got you covered.