Activity overview
Stay safe on the water with the RYA First Aid course, a one-day training designed specifically for those who spend time afloat. The course provides vital knowledge and practical experience to help you respond effectively to a range of situations that can occur on the water.
Whether you are an RYA instructor, a skipper, or simply enjoy boating and watersports, this course ensures you gain the confidence to manage emergencies and keep yourself and others safe. It also meets the RYA and MCA requirements for professional qualifications.
What to expect
During the course, you will cover:
- The recovery position in a confined space
- CPR, including the drowning protocol
- Cold water shock and hypothermia from immersion and/or exposure
- Seasickness and dehydration
- How to access medical assistance or advice by VHF
- Procedures for helicopter rescue
- Managing bleeding, shock and other injuries afloat
- First aid kit essentials for the marine environment
By the end of the course, you will be confident in delivering first aid both ashore and afloat, ensuring you are prepared for real-world emergencies on the water.
Key information
Timings
9:00am - 5:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
First Aid book
What you need to bring
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks
Emma Bannister
“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
9:00am - 5:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
First Aid book
What you need to bring
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks
Tayla Donovan
“Close to major transport links and the city centre, our centre at Bartley Reservoir is a safe, inland watersports venue. With a range of activities available, including sailing, Swim Safe, raft building, team games, and soft archery, our programmes encourage the development of key life skills such as communication, teamwork, problemsolving and resilience, in a classroom like no other.”
Timings
9:00am - 5:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
First Aid book
What you need to bring
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks
Nathan Bloss
“Portland offers consistent wind and a fantastic sailing venue all year round – for both beginners and elite sailors alike. Inspire your family and friends as they sail on the same waters as Olympians, excel at exciting new activities, make friends, and develop key life skills."
Timings
9:00am - 5:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday
What's included
First Aid book
What you need to bring
- Lunch
- Snacks
- Drinks
Ross Dixon
“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 First Aid, the following activities could be your next step:
RYA Safe and Fun
Learn about safeguarding in a boating environment with the RYA Safe and Fun online course. Essential for instructors and anyone working with young people or vulnerable adults at an RYA…
RYA Powerboat Level 2
Gain the skills and confidence to handle a powerboat safely with the RYA Powerboat Level 2 course. A practical 2-day course covering everything from close quarters handling to high-speed manoeuvres.
Why book with Andrew Simpson Centres?
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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.
Check availability & book
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booked
touch for
availability
Please call our centres directly on 0300 124 0449 if you would like to book with childcare vouchers.