Category:
CoursesRYA Start Yachting Course with Sailing School Malta
Published on 3 January 2026
The RYA Start Yachting course is the perfect first step for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of sailing and gain fundamental skills on a cruising yacht — even with absolutely no prior experience. This two-day introductory programme is designed to be fun, relaxing, and highly practical, giving beginners hands-on experience in essential sailing techniques over a short weekend format.
At Sailing School Malta, the RYA Start Yachting course is delivered aboard comfortable, well-equipped yachts and led by professional RYA instructors. Whether you’re planning a future sailing adventure, want to dip your toes into the world of yachts, or simply desire an unforgettable weekend at sea, this course offers a safe, enjoyable, and confidence-building introduction.
What Is the RYA Start Yachting Course?
The RYA Start Yachting course is an internationally recognised introductory sailing programme designed for complete novices. Over two days, participants learn the basic skills needed to participate actively in sailing a cruising yacht. Unlike longer vocational courses, Start Yachting is focused on giving you a practical taste of sailing and helping you feel confident on deck from day one.
This two-day format makes it ideal for people who:
- Have never sailed before but want to try it in a safe, structured environment
- Are planning a sailing holiday and want some introductory training
- Want to understand yachts and how they work before investing in longer training
- Are seeking a fun, memorable weekend adventure on the water
Who Is This Course For?
The RYA Start Yachting course is perfectly suited for:
- Absolute beginners — no sailing experience required
- Individuals, couples, or families looking for a shared sailing experience
- Young adults or children (often accompanied by adults) eager to explore sailing as a recreational activity
- Visitors to Malta who want a unique way to see the island from the sea
- Sailors planning to progress to the RYA Competent Crew course afterwards
What You’ll Learn on the RYA Start Yachting Course
Over the two days of the course, you’ll gradually build confidence and skills through guided, hands-on practice. Key learning elements include:
- Yacht Familiarisation: Understand the basic parts of the boat, ropes, rigging, sails, and essential sailing terminology.
- Ropework and Knots: Learn how to tie essential knots such as the figure-eight knot, bowline, and round turn with two half hitches.
- Sailing Underway: Experience sailing on different points of sail, including steering under both sail and engine.
- Rules of the Road: Gain a basic understanding of collision avoidance, right of way, and lookout procedures.
- Weather Awareness: Learn how to interpret weather forecasts and understand how different wind conditions affect sailing.
- Man Overboard Basics: Get introduced to procedures and awareness for crew safety in case of emergency.
- Safety Equipment & Clothing: Learn how to use life jackets, harnesses, and other essential safety gear.
The Malta Sailing Experience
Malta’s Mediterranean location offers picturesque sailing conditions, making it an ideal backdrop for the RYA Start Yachting course.
Students get to sail in stunning coastal waters, visit bays and ports, and enjoy breathtaking views of Valletta’s historic harbours — all while learning practical skills on the water. The course typically runs over a weekend (Saturday and Sunday), with daily sailing sessions from morning through the afternoon.
Malta’s warm climate, favourable winds, and clear blue sea create an environment where beginners can focus on learning rather than battling adverse conditions. The combination of stunning scenery and engaging training makes this course not just educational, but truly memorable.
Student Experience and Course Benefits
Participants consistently highlight how much they enjoy the friendly, relaxed atmosphere of the RYA Start Yachting course. Even complete beginners quickly feel part of the crew and gain confidence in basic boat handling.
Students often cite the following experiences as highlights:
- Hands-on learning that feels exciting rather than intimidating
- Personalised attention from professional RYA instructors
- Teamwork and camaraderie with fellow course participants
- Sailing to scenic bays and stopping to swim or enjoy lunch on board
- A clear sense of progression as skills build from day one
At the end of the course, students receive an official certificate recognising their achievement and can use this as a stepping stone to the next level of RYA courses — most commonly the Competent Crew programme.
Why Choose Sailing School Malta?
Sailing School Malta provides structured, high-quality training with experienced, RYA-certified instructors who prioritise safety, confidence, and enjoyment. Courses are kept small to ensure personalised instruction and plenty of hands-on time for every student.
The Start Yachting course is led from modern, well-equipped training yachts moored at Manoel Island Marina, one of Malta’s most picturesque sailing hubs. Students benefit from reliable weather, scenic surroundings, and a supportive learning environment that makes their first sailing experience both challenging and enjoyable.
How to Prepare for the Course
No prior experience or special skills are required for the RYA Start Yachting course — just enthusiasm, comfortable clothing, and a willingness to learn. However, there are a few simple recommendations to help you get the most out of your weekend at sea:
- Bring sun protection (sun cream, sunglasses, hat) for day sailing
- Wear soft shoes or non-marking deck shoes
- Pack a light lunch and water for energy throughout the day
- Dress in layers — mornings and evenings can be cool on the water
- Stay open-minded and ready to participate in every exercise
Where to Go After Start Yachting
Many students choose to continue their sailing journey after completing this beginner course. A natural next step is the RYA Competent Crew course, which builds on the foundations learned in Start Yachting and provides a deeper dive into yacht crew skills and responsibilities.
Completing Start Yachting first can even allow students to complete some follow-on training in reduced time or with increased confidence as they build on real on-water experience.
Explore Other RYA Courses
Sailing School Malta offers a wide range of RYA sailing courses that build on the Start Yachting experience, including the Competent Crew, Day Skipper, and more advanced certifications. These courses provide a clear pathway for lifelong sailing education and skills progression.