10 Things They Didn't Tell You On Your RYA Course: Must-Know Steps to Sailing

So, you've completed your RYA (Royal Yachting Association) sailing course and you're eager to set sail on your own adventure. Congratulations! The RYA course provides valuable knowledge and skills necessary for safe and enjoyable sailing experiences. However, there are still some essential things they might not have mentioned during your course. In this article, we'll uncover these hidden gems, offering you the steps you need to become an expert sailor.

1. Always Check the Weather

Before heading out to sea, the first and most crucial step is to check the weather forecast. Weather conditions greatly impact sailing experiences, so it's essential to be aware of any potential storms, high winds, or other risks that could affect your journey. Take advantage of online weather services, local forecasts, or consult with experienced sailors to make informed decisions.

2. Master the Art of Knots

One thing they might not have focused on during your RYA course is mastering various knots. Knowing how to tie different types of knots is essential for sail handling, docking, and general safety on the boat. Practice tying knots like the reef knot, bowline, and figure-eight knot until you can do it effortlessly, as they will become second nature to you while sailing.

7 Steps to Skippering a Yacht: Things they didn't tell you on your RYA Course (7 Steps to Sailing Book 2)

by Trudy Brandenburg (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3095 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	102 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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3. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Safety should always be a top priority when sailing. It is crucial to equip your boat with essential safety gear, such as life jackets, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and distress signals. Additionally, knowing how to handle emergencies, like man overboard or engine failure, can make a significant difference in critical situations. Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and practice them regularly.

4. Learn How to Trim Your Sails

Understanding how to trim your sails effectively is vital to control your boat's speed and maneuverability. Experiment with different sail positions and adjustments to optimize your boat's performance in various wind conditions. Small adjustments in sail trim can significantly impact your sailing experience.

5. Don't Forget about Navigation

While sailing, it's essential to keep track of your boat's position and navigate accurately. Learn how to use navigational tools such as charts, compasses, and GPS devices to plot your course and avoid potential hazards. Familiarize yourself with common navigational symbols and aids to ensure a safe and exciting journey.

6. Practice Man Overboard Drills

Man overboard situations can be incredibly dangerous if not handled efficiently. Knowing how to react promptly and effectively in such situations can save lives. Practice man overboard drills with your crew to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, know how to quickly spot and recover a person who has fallen overboard.

7. Understand Right of Way Rules

Avoiding collisions with other boats is crucial while sailing. Familiarize yourself with the right of way rules to determine the sailing hierarchy in different situations. Knowing who has the right of way and being able to anticipate potential conflicts can help you navigate crowded waters safely.

8. Learn Basic Engine Maintenance

While sailing primarily relies on the wind, having a functional engine is essential for maneuvering in tight spots and emergencies. Familiarize yourself with basic engine maintenance, such as checking oil levels, fuel filters, and troubleshooting common issues. This knowledge will come in handy when you least expect it.

9. Practice Anchoring Techniques

Anchoring allows you to temporarily secure your boat and enjoy peaceful stops along your sailing journey. It is crucial to learn different anchoring techniques to ensure stability and safety. Experiment with different anchor types and understand the factors that influence proper anchoring, such as current, wind, and sea bottom conditions.

10. Embrace Continued Learning

Completing your RYA course is just the beginning of your sailing journey. To become a proficient and confident sailor, embrace continued learning. Join sailing clubs, participate in regattas, connect with experienced sailors, and keep exploring new sailing destinations. The more you sail and learn, the better sailor you'll become.

Embarking on a sailing adventure can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. While your RYA course paved the way for your sailing journey, there are still essential steps and tips they might not have covered. From checking the weather to embracing continued learning, these must-know steps will make you a competent and knowledgeable sailor. So, hoist your sails, navigate the seas, and enjoy the incredible world of sailing!

7 Steps to Skippering a Yacht: Things they didn't tell you on your RYA Course (7 Steps to Sailing Book 2)

by Trudy Brandenburg (Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3095 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	102 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

7 Steps to Skippering a Yacht is the second book in a series covering every aspect of owning and sailing a cruising yacht. Going well beyond the technical sailing skills of the average sailing course, 7 Steps to Skippering a Yacht looks at the nature of command, crew management, long distance passage planning, coping with emergencies, and how to develop personal skill as a modern yacht skipper. There's information on the best yachting websites and apps for the cruising skipper, and examples of crew joining forms and standing orders.