RYA Competent Crew Sailing Course in Cornwall
Learn to sail with our practical RYA Competent Crew course, based at Mylor Yacht Harbour near Falmouth. The course is designed for beginners and anyone who wants to develop their confidence and practical sailing skills.
You will spend five days and five nights aboard the yacht, learning as part of the crew and gaining practical experience under the guidance of an experienced RYA instructor.
5 days & 5 nights
A practical residential course running from Sunday evening to Friday afternoon.
Mylor Yacht Harbour
Based on the Fal Estuary near Falmouth and Truro, Cornwall.
Small groups
Mixed group courses have a maximum instructor-to-student ratio of 1:4.
£850 per person
£800 per person when two people book together. Private course options are also available.
RYA Competent Crew Course Prices
Choose from our RYA Competent Crew course or arrange a private course for your own group.
RYA Competent Crew Course
£850 per person
Flexible private courses: Private courses can run over three weekends or start on different days to suit your group. Please contact us to discuss your requirements.
What You’ll Learn on the RYA Competent Crew Course
The RYA Competent Crew course is designed to help you become an active and useful member of a sailing crew. Rather than simply being a passenger, you’ll take part in the practical running of the yacht and build your confidence through hands-on experience.
During the course, you’ll learn through practical sailing, working alongside the instructor and other crew members in a supportive environment.
Helming and sailing
Take the helm and learn how to steer the yacht under sail, while developing an understanding of how the sails and boat work together.
Sail handling
Learn how to handle and adjust the sails, including the practical use of sheets, halyards and other sailing controls.
Ropework and boat handling
Develop practical ropework skills and learn how crew members work together when handling the yacht around the marina and on the water.
Mooring and anchoring
Take part in practical exercises covering mooring, anchoring and the duties of crew when bringing the yacht alongside or securing her.
Safety and life on board
Learn about safety procedures, the equipment carried on board and the responsibilities of being part of a yacht crew.
Seamanship and navigation
Build an understanding of basic navigation, seamanship and the terminology used when sailing and working as part of a crew.
2027 Course Dates
Our RYA Competent Crew courses run from Sunday evening to Friday afternoon, with five nights aboard the yacht.
Ready to book? Check the booking calendar below for availability and submit a booking request for your preferred course date.
2027 RYA Competent Crew Course Dates
Our RYA Competent Crew course runs from Sunday at 18:00 to Friday at 16:00, with five nights aboard the yacht. Check the calendar below for available dates and submit a booking request.
2027 Split RYA Competent Crew Course Dates
The split course covers the same RYA Competent Crew syllabus but is delivered over two separate sessions. Both sessions must be attended to complete the course. Check the calendar below for available dates and submit a booking request.
RYA Competent Crew Course FAQ
Here are answers to some of the practical questions people commonly have before booking an RYA Competent Crew sailing course in Cornwall.
What will I learn on the RYA Competent Crew course?
The course is practical and designed to give you the skills and confidence to become a useful member of a sailing crew.
You will learn about sailing the yacht, handling sails, helming, ropework, mooring, anchoring, safety procedures and life on board. You will also gain an understanding of basic navigation and seamanship as you take part in the day-to-day running of the yacht.
Where can I find the full RYA Competent Crew syllabus?
You can view the full RYA Competent Crew course syllabus and course content on the Royal Yachting Association website.
View the full RYA Competent Crew syllabus on the RYA website
What meals and drinks are provided?
Breakfast and lunch are provided each day, along with four evening meals on board. One evening meal is taken ashore.
Tea, coffee, water and snacks are also provided. Please let us know about any dietary requirements when you book.
What accommodation is provided onboard?
You stay aboard the training yacht for five nights during the course. Accommodation is in the yacht's cabins and saloon berths, with sleeping arrangements explained when you book.
What equipment and costs are included?
The course price includes the yacht, instructor, fuel, marina fees, accommodation onboard, food and drinks as described above, parking at Mylor Yacht Harbour, lifejackets and the safety equipment required for the course.
What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable, warm and waterproof clothing suitable for being outdoors on a yacht, along with non-slip footwear, personal toiletries and any medication you need.
As you will be staying aboard the yacht for five nights, please also bring a sheet, pillow and sleeping bag. A small amount of luggage is recommended so it can be stored easily onboard.
Full joining information is provided before your course.
What happens if the weather changes?
Sailing plans are adapted to the weather, sea conditions and the needs of the group. Your instructor will decide the safest and most appropriate programme for the conditions on the day.
The aim is to give you as much practical sailing experience as possible while keeping the course within safe operating limits.
How do I book an RYA Competent Crew course?
Choose a suitable 2027 course date from the booking calendar above and submit your booking request. If you are unsure which course or date is right for you, contact Take A Turn Yachting and we can help.
