Sailing
Achieve RYA qualifications from Youth Stages to advanced modules with expert instruction.
What's Involved?
We run a comprehensive range of RYA sailing courses for all ages from 8 upwards, all delivered by highly qualified and caring instructors.
Our courses operate with exceptionally high instructor ratios – typically 2-4 students per instructor – coupled with a wide selection of excellent training boats to ensure quality learning. Children's and teenage courses (ages 8-12 and 12-15) run within the RYA Youth Scheme, offering Stages 1-4. Adults can progress through the RYA scheme appropriate to their level.
We also offer specialist RYA Modules including Seamanship Skills, Day Sailing, Spinnakers, and Performance Sailing for those wanting to develop specific techniques.
Whether it's your first time on the water or you're honing racing skills in high-performance boats, we'll place you with others of similar experience and guide your progression to the next level in Chichester Harbour's beautiful and sheltered waters.
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Calling all those 16+ to join us for RYA National Sailing Levels 1 and 2 at CYE! Our instructors deliver the full RYA Levels syllabus in engaging, hands-on sessions – building skills, safety awareness and confidence on the water. Following the RYA National Sailing Scheme will take you from complete beginner to confident helm in a safe and fun environment (please note each Level takes 2 days to complete).
RYA National Sailing Scheme – Level 1 (Start Sailing)
Take your first step into the world of sailing with our RYA Level 1 course. This beginner-friendly course will introduce you to the basics of sailing in a safe and supportive environment. You’ll learn how to rig and launch a dinghy, basic boat handling, steering, and essential safety knowledge. Perfect for adults (16+) looking to gain confidence on the water and start their sailing journey. No prior experience is needed — just bring your enthusiasm!
We're a recognised RYA Training Centre and our qualified, attentive instructors teach in small groups, with lots of hands-on time in the boats and individual support as you progress.
Level 1 – Start Sailing is for complete beginners. You'll get to grips with the basics of boat handling, learn how to get the boat moving in different directions and begin to build your confidence on the water. No previous experience is needed.
Level 2 – Basic Skills builds on what you've learned at Level 1, developing your boat handling and helping you become more confident and independent.
Each level takes two days to complete. All kit and equipment is provided, so just bring a packed lunch, a change of clothes and a keenness to learn.
For ages 16+ | These are non-residential courses.
If you're booking Level 2, you'll need to be able to sail to Level 1 standard.
There is a 60% volunteer discount for anyone who has volunteered at CYE in 2026, who has a current DBS and has completed the Safeguarding training.
We're a recognised RYA Training Centre and our qualified, attentive instructors teach in small groups, with lots of hands-on time in the boats and individual support as you progress.
Level 1 – Start Sailing is for complete beginners. You'll get to grips with the basics of boat handling, learn how to get the boat moving in different directions and begin to build your confidence on the water. No previous experience is needed.
Level 2 – Basic Skills builds on what you've learned at Level 1, developing your boat handling and helping you become more confident and independent.
Each level takes two days to complete. All kit and equipment is provided, so just bring a packed lunch, a change of clothes and a keenness to learn.
For ages 16+ | These are non-residential courses.
If you're booking Level 2, you'll need to be able to sail to Level 1 standard.
There is a 60% volunteer discount for anyone who has volunteered at CYE in 2026, who has a current DBS and has completed the Safeguarding training.
Stage 1 – Start Sailing
A gentle introduction with no prior experience required. On this course you will learn the basics of sailing, parts of the boat and how to launch, recover and steer.
Progression Requirements
Please note, you must complete each stage before moving to the next – it’s a step-by-step journey.
Stage 1 - Stage 2
Stage 2 - Stage 3
Stage 3 - Stage 4
Stage 2 – Basic Skills
Building on from Stage 1, sailors will continue to develop basic sailing skills, including taking and controlling a boats speed. This course will also include holistic sailing such as basic ropework and rules of the road. This course looks to grow a young sailors confidence sailing and is excellent preparation to progress to stage 3
Progression Requirements
Please note, you must complete each stage before moving to the next – it’s a step-by-step journey.
Stage 1 - Stage 2
Stage 2 - Stage 3
Stage 3 - Stage 4
Stage 3 and 4 - improver and advanced skills
Stage 3 and 4 will develop a sailors basic sailing skills to an improved or advanced level. This course will continue to cover rigging and sailing techniques, sailing theory, launching and recovery skills. Stage 4 applies all of the skills learnt up to and including Stage 3 but in double handed boats, allowing development as a helm or crew.
Progression Requirements
Please note, you must complete each stage before moving to the next – it’s a step-by-step journey.
Stage 1 - Stage 2
Stage 2 - Stage 3
Stage 3 - Stage 4