Start Yachting is the gentlest possible introduction to the cruising scheme. Over two days you help sail a yacht, learn the basic language of the boat, steer, handle a few ropes and get a feel for the routines of life on board. Nothing is examined and nobody expects prior knowledge. Many Australians skip it and go straight to Competent Crew, which is perfectly reasonable if you already know you want to sail.
At a glance
| Type | Practical course |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 days on board |
| Minimum age | No formal minimum; suitable for families |
| Stage in the pathway | Stage 1 of 10 |
Before you start
| Experience needed | None |
|---|---|
| Theory needed | None |
What it covers
- Basic safety on board and personal buoyancy
- Steering under sail and power
- Ropework: the essential knots and how to handle a winch
- Sail handling as part of a crew
- Life on board: galley, heads, watches, keeping yourself and the boat tidy
What you get
A course completion certificate that counts towards the Competent Crew course (it usually reduces Competent Crew to three days).
Where it sits in the pathway
This is the first rung of the ladder. After this: Competent Crew.