Activity overview
The RYA Sailing with Spinnakers course is designed for sailors who want to take their dinghy sailing to the next level. Over two days, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to handle spinnakers, transforming your downwind sailing into a fast, fun, and tactical experience. With expert coaching, you’ll cover everything from preparation and rigging to advanced boat handling techniques, ensuring you leave the course ready to fly the kite in style.
This advanced module is the perfect step for sailors looking to broaden their skills, whether for club racing, recreational sailing, or simply to enjoy the added excitement and challenge of spinnaker sailing.
What to expect
- How to rig boats with symmetric and asymmetric spinnakers
- Hoisting, gybing, and dropping the spinnaker smoothly
- Sail trim and teamwork for maximum speed
- Recovering the spinnaker efficiently
- Choosing and sailing the best possible course downwind
- Handling common challenges and problem-solving on the water
Prerequisites & course minimum requirements
Participants must have successfully completed the RYA Level 2 certificate (or equivalent experience). This ensures you have the core boat handling skills needed to progress safely and confidently with spinnaker sailing.
RYA Level 2
Learn more boat handling skills in double and single-handed boats, working towards the RYA Level 2 certificate.
Key information
Timings
9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top
Helmet
What you need to bring
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Suncream
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
Emma Bannister
Centre Manager
“We build our programmes around each individual’s requirements, with consideration to their needs, aspirations and strengths. Seeing the impact that a visit to ASC Reading can have on young people is incredibly rewarding, whether they’re here for a few hours to decompress, or for a week packed with adventure and new experiences.”
Timings
9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top and Trousers
Helmet
What you need to bring
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Suncream
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
- Lunch and snacks
- Water bottle
Ross Dixon
Chief Instructor
“At ASC Portsmouth, we pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art facilities that cater to all. Our range of activities, from sailing and kayaking to climbing and sustainability workshops, ensures an engaging experience for everyone. As a team, we are committed to creating inclusive programmes that adapt to different learning styles and abilities, ensuring every participant can challenge themselves and grow. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping each individual discover their potential in our unique outdoor classroom.”
Where can this take you?
After completing the RYA Sailing with Spinnakers (Adult), the following activities could be your next step:
Ages 8 - 15
RYA Performance Sailing
Step up your sailing skills with this exciting 2-day course designed for young sailors. Get a taste of high-performance dinghies and develop advanced techniques with expert coaching.
Adults (16+)
RYA Level 3
Push your sailing skills further on the RYA Level 3 course. Fine-tune your boat handling and gain confidence in more challenging conditions while working towards your RYA Level 3 certificate.
Why book with Andrew Simpson Centres?
-
Top-Quality Equipment
Our fleet is well-maintained and regularly updated, ensuring you train with the best sailing gear available. -
Expert Coaching & Development
Our professional instructors follow a structured development programme, helping you progress at every level. -
Not-for-Profit Impact
Every booking supports our charitable mission to make sailing accessible to all, reinvesting in the sport and future sailors. -
Unforgettable Experience
Whether you're learning the basics or refining race tactics, you'll gain confidence, skills, and a love for the water. -
High Safety Standards
Safety is our top priority, with expertly trained staff, well-maintained equipment, and strict safety protocols in place. -
Flexible, Customised Courses
We tailor our courses to each participant, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water. -
Low Instructor-to-Sailor Ratios
Smaller group sizes mean more personalised coaching, helping you develop skills faster and with confidence. -
Accessible for All
We offer inclusive courses designed to support individuals with Special Educational Needs (SEN), making sailing accessible to everyone.
2 day intermediate, advanced course
from
£265
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RYA Sailing with Spinnakers (Adult)
For participants at ASC
Total
To book with childcare vouchers call 0300 124 0449
Want to pay with childcare vouchers?
Please call our centres directly on 0300 124 0449 if you would like to book with childcare vouchers.
