About Sail Squad
World-class expert instruction, hands-on practical training, and unforgettable sailing experiences, all with the personal care and attention only a small team can provide.
Sail Squad – One of the Leading Family-Run RYA Sailing Schools in the Solent
At Sail Squad, we believe that sailing is more than just a hobby; it’s a way of life. What began as a personal passion in 2014 has evolved into a mission to share the thrill, challenge, and freedom of yachting with others.
Whether you’re here to learn to sail from scratch or advance your existing skills, we provide expert instruction, hands-on experience, and personal support to help you succeed. As a premier RYA sailing school in the South of England, Sail Squad is dedicated to creating the most rewarding and memorable experiences possible.
From learning to sail as a complete beginner or a seasoned sailor aiming for your Yachtmaster certification, Sail Squad offers a tailored pathway to achieve your goals.
Our Team
At Sail Squad, we keep things intentionally small and personal. This approach allows us to give our full attention to every course, every trip, and every student. We are not a production line; instead, we prioritise building genuine relationships to support you at every stage of your sailing journey.
Our team of RYA instructors are carefully selected for their expertise, professionalism, and passion for sailing. All of our instructors are employed full time, not freelance, so the quality of teaching is consistent and carefully developed by our lead instructor, Mart. Our strong reputation attracts top talent, ensuring consistency in training. You can always expect to learn from a team that truly cares about your success.
Our instructors are selected for their expertise, professionalism, and passion for sailing. They’re not just here to teach; they’re here to support, encourage, and challenge you, so you come away not just qualified, but confident.
Mart Andrews
Owner & Chief Instructor, Cruising Instructor Trainer, Yachtmaster Instructor
Mart first fell for sailing when his friend took him out to watch the America’s Cup World Series. As high-speed foiling catamarans tore past, Mart realised sailing wasn’t just about relaxing with a G&T at sunset (though he’s still a fan of that too), it is also a highly disciplined sport.
That moment sparked a passion that led to the creation of Sail Squad in 2015, which Mart co-founded with Sara. Their goal was to offer a different kind of training: one that is both supportive and ambitious, designed to build confidence at every stage.
Mart holds a Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate, is a qualified Yachtmaster Instructor, certified to teach up to Yachtmaster Theory, and most notably, is an RYA Cruising Instructor Trainer. This means he not only teaches students but also trains the instructors who will go on to teach others. His advanced expertise ensures that every course at Sail Squad is delivered to the highest standard and is up-to-date, consistent, and based on in-depth, real-world knowledge.
Sara Andrews
Owner & Principal, Operations, Course Advisor
Sara brings a love of adventure, challenge, and exploration into everything she does – and sailing is the perfect outlet. She earned her RYA Day Skipper qualification (proudly, before Mart) and has since logged over 4,000 nautical miles, mainly in the Solent, Mediterranean and Asia. Everyone needs a first mate and chef on their voyage.
A standout moment in Sara’s sailing journey was crewing aboard the tall ship Lord Nelson during the 2017’ Sail Around Britain’ initiative. Navigating the Bristol Channel with a mixed-ability crew, she witnessed firsthand the inclusive power of sailing, especially the moment her crewmate Isaac was hoisted in his wheelchair up to the crow’s nest.
Sara is your first port of call for course advice, scheduling, and bookings. She knows the Solent like the back of her hand, including just how rewarding and challenging those tides can be.
Whether you’re new to sailing or aiming for your next qualification, she’ll guide you through the process with insight, warmth, and razor-sharp knowledge of the RYA training pathway.
Our Location – Port Hamble Marina
Ideal Sailing Conditions
The Solent is widely regarded as one of the best places to learn to sail in the UK. Sheltered by the Isle of Wight, the Solent offers steady winds and reliable conditions that mean more time on the water and faster progress toward your RYA qualifications.
Globally Respected Training Ground
The Solent is a recognised centre for sailing, offering tidal streams, narrow channels, commercial shipping, and sandbanks like Bramble Bank. These real-world challenges make it an ideal place to build confidence and grow your skills under pressure.
Top-Notch Facilities
Port Hamble Marina is fully equipped for training and comfort. Facilities include a chandlery, showers, laundry, on-site parking, EV charging, Wi-Fi, and a bar and restaurant. It’s also just 7 miles from Southampton, making it easy to reach by train or plane.
Explore Hamble Village
A short walk from the marina brings you to Hamble village, a friendly and popular spot with sailors. You’ll find cosy pubs, cafés, restaurants, and a nearby Co-op, perfect for unwinding or stocking up between sailing sessions.
The Sail Squad Fleet – Training, Milebuilding and Racing
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Beneteau Oceanis 37
Perfect for RYA Courses. We have two Oceanis 37 yachts, Crème de la Crème and Mange Tout, both built in 2009. These stylish, stable, and easy-handling cruisers are trusted by sailing schools and private owners worldwide, making them ideal to learn to sail. Each yacht features three cabins and a convertible saloon berth, providing both comfort and practicality.
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Beneteau 50
Ideal for Milebuilding & Racing. Our flagship yacht, Cork Malt II, is spacious, fast, and perfect for offshore passages, racing, and milebuilding trips. With five cabins, it is well-suited for larger crews and longer journeys.
What We Offer
- RYA-Certified Training – From learning to sail and a Day Skipper course to Yachtmaster Prep and Cruising Instructor courses, we offer the full range of RYA qualifications.
- Milebuilders – We run regular milebuilders to help you log sea time and prepare for advanced qualifications.
- Beginner-Friendly Instruction – No sailing experience? No problem! Our RYA beginner sailing courses are designed to build your skills and confidence from the ground up.
- Career Pathway Support – Dreaming of working in the yachting industry? Our Yachtmaster Fast-Track and Cruising Instructor Development Programme opens doors globally.
- International-Friendly Environment – We regularly welcome students from overseas, creating a diverse and enriching learning experience.
Get in Touch
If you’re looking for an RYA sailing school in the Solent that puts quality, care, and personal attention first, you’ve come to the right place. Contact us today to discuss your sailing goals and to book your next RYA sailing course or milebuilder.