Want to get into the sport .? Here s how ..

'Sailing' is one of the few sports that genuinely allows everyone to take part from the cradle to the grave and it includes all kind of water-based activities. There are many opportunities to try these throughout Scotland, but before you turn to the lists of clubs and centres the information below may.

Getting out on the water

Think about what you would like to do are you a speed freak, or do you prefer the thought of ambling along at your own pace? Do sails appeal, or are you more interested in becoming involved with engines? Whichever, a local club or training centre can advise you on courses to help you start. These courses will give you the skills and knowledge to stay safe whilst on the water and will cover general water safety and skills as well as the basic handling of whichever type of craft you choose.

Sailing often starts in a sailing dinghy, and most early sailing and training is done in boats roughly 3-5m long. Don t start by buying as boat. If you go to a club or centre you will be able to use some boats and see which type you like. You may also be able to buy a boat at a price you can afford. You can buy the ocean racer later on.

Powerboating - Powerboat courses are usually taught in rigid hulled inflatables (RIBs Rigid Inflatable Boats).

PWCs or Jetskiing PWCs (Personal Water Craft) are used for a wide variety of activities. Safety and your responsibilities to others are a feature of courses.

Windsurfing The windsurfing scheme has been designed to reflect the current technology in the sport, and to get you going as fast as possible as quickly as possible.

Buying your own kit?

Our basic advice to you is to try as many different kinds of kit as possible before making your final decision. Don t forget that you will need somewhere to store your equipment, you will need to insure it, and you will need to look after it! For detailed help in this area, the RYA publish booklets called Buying a New Yacht and Buying a Secondhand Yacht , and can be purchased from the RYA website www.rya.org.uk.

Joining a club?

Clubs are often the best place to continue the pursuit of your sport. They provide access to other like minded people, as well as facilities such as boat parking and training. There are almost 130 Clubs in Scotland. Some have only dinghy sailing, some only keel-boat, some only windsurfing or motor-cruising. Some have racing, others cruising, many - both. Look around and see which fits you best. If you visit one - someone there may help you find a club which suits you better. You won't be persuaded to join a club which is not the right one for you.

Where can you start?

Use the link above to visit the RYA Website - use the Find drop down menu to select 'Clubs' and a Region, and you can select all the clubs within a certain distance of your home (beware, this system is not always completely correct!)

How about more training?

If you have just done some training, and you wish to continue, then visit the RYA Website - use the Find drop down menu to select 'Training Centres' and a Region, can you can select all the training centres within a certain distance of your home. All RYA training Centres are inspected annually to ensure that they are following good and safe practice.

So, to conclude There is simply nothing to compare with being out on the water, and RYAS strives to ensure that each experience of being in the water is as positive as possible. If you have any questions about getting out, or improving your skills, please do not hesitate to contact the RYAS staff.

We look forward to hearing from you soon!