Learn to sail @ Bexhill sailing club
RYA Level 1 & 2 Dinghy Sailing Course
Always wanted to try sailing? Our Learn to Sail course is the perfect way to get started.
Bexhill Sailing Club runs an RYA-approved Level 1 & Level 2 Dinghy Sailing course, designed for complete beginners and those with a little experience who want to build confidence on the water. Taught by friendly, qualified instructors in a relaxed club environment, you’ll learn the skills you need to sail safely and independently — while having plenty of fun along the way.
“It was a fantastic experience, I thoroughly enjoyed the challenge. The instruction was clear and supportive throughout” Amy, class of 2024
Who is the course for?
Anyone over the age of 18
Complete beginners — no prior sailing experience needed
Those who have sailed a little and want to improve their skills
Anyone looking for an active, outdoor hobby on the water
You don’t need your own boat or equipment, just suitable clothing and shoes.
“I wish I’d done it so much earlier, I’ve missed out on so much time afloat” Wendy, class of 2023
What you’ll learn
The course follows the RYA Dinghy Sailing syllabus and is usually delivered in half day sessions over ten Saturdays or Sundays (see our calendar for exact times and dates) covering both Level 1 (Start Sailing) and Level 2 (Basic Skills).
You’ll learn:
How to rig and launch a dinghy
Basic sailing terminology and boat parts
Steering and sailing in all directions
Tacking and gybing
Capsize awareness and recovery
Basic ropework and boat handling
Sailing safely and confidently with others
By the end of the course, most students are able to sail a dinghy independently in light to moderate conditions.
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What’s included?
Our Learn to Sail package includes the following:
- RYA qualified instructors and all tuition for levels 1 & 2.
- 1 year full membership of Bexhill Sailing Club
- New members introductory evening
- FREE use of the club boats in your 1st year
- FREE use of the club boats in your 2nd (novice) year
Buoyancy aids and all necessary equipment during the course
- RYA handbook “Start Sailing” and an RYA logbook
RYA Level 1 & Level 2 certificates on successful completion
Why learn at Bexhill Sailing Club?
Friendly, welcoming volunteer-run club
Experienced instructors who love teaching beginners
Great value compared to commercial centres
A clear pathway into club sailing once you’ve qualified
Bexhill Sailing Club is affiliated and approved by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) as a training centre for RYA level 1 and 2 dinghy sailing.
Where and when does it happen?
- Our courses are held at the Club Premises on Bexhill seafront.
- Course Induction Day – Saturday 25th April @ 09:00.
- The course will be run on Saturdays, starting on Saturday 30th May for 10 consecutive weeks, ending on Saturday 1st August. The start times will vary, with some morning sessions and some afternoon sessions, to suit the tide on that particular day.
What does it cost?
Probably the best value Learn to Sail package in the area! The course fee with 1 year membership is £435.
Speak to a member of our training team
If you would prefer to speak to a human being, please send your contact telephone number in an email to:
trainingprincipal@bexhillsailing.club
We’ll call you back as soon as we can.
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Course FAQs
Is dinghy sailing expensive?
No, sailing at the club is very economical as the course includes 1 years membership, 2 years free use of the club boats and there are plenty of sites selling cheap new and used sailing gear like wetsuits and sailing shoes. Over time you might decide to spend more on your own boat or better gear but it is always your choice.
Is the course for me?
Yes! The course is designed for complete beginners or those with a little experience. Look at this video for a flavour of what it’s like RYA Sailing Intro.
We will show you the ropes (literally), teach you about the various parts of the boat and what they do, then get you on the water doing a few basic sailing manoeuvres.
We’ll then move on to the RYA Level 2 course, where you’ll learn to sail a dinghy around a triangle course, carrying out all the essential techniques and manoeuvres. You will be able to rig a variety of dinghies, learn where and when to sail safely, and be introduced to all aspects of sailing.
What do I need to bring?
Clothes you don’t mind getting wet
Trainers, beach shoes or wetsuit boots (no flip-flops or open-toed shoes). The beach is stony and you want shoes that will grip well and won’t come off.
Warm layers and a waterproof top. It can get cold on the water even on a sunny day if it’s windy
Sunscreen, sunglasses and potentially a hat in sunny weather
A towel and change of clothes
Sailing gloves are highly recommended (cheap ones are around £10-15 from amazon)
You DON’T need to bring a buoyancy aid as the club will provide one for each training session
What sailing facilities does the club house have?
RYA certified instructors
The club house is sited on a shingle beach with winches to haul boats up
Boat parking is directly in front of the club house on the beach
The club operates upto 3 safety boats with at least one always out whenever students are on the water
Separate male and female changing rooms with showers
A number of club boats available for training and member use
What boats will I sail on the course?
Training is typically carried out in stable durable dinghies suitable for beginners, such as Laser 2000s, Hartleys and Lasers. Boats are always sailed with an instructor as you start the course, then you might sail with crew or on your own depending on weather conditions and how well your skills are progressing. All boats are stored on the beach when not afloat.
What happens after the course?
Once you’ve passed the course you’ll be able to:
Use the club boats to take part in the regular club races as much or as little as you like (weather conditions permitting)
As a member, take part in social events throughout the year
Sail as crew for other members
Get your own boat and store it at the club if you want (subject to boat parking fee and arranging insurance.)
As a member you also have access to the club bar that is open at weekends and during racetimes
Quick Links
Get In Touch
- Email: membership@bexhillsailing.club
- Phone: 01424 212906 (Sat/Sun 12-3pm)