Activity overview
Stage 2 focuses on developing core sailing skills, including tacking, gybing, steering, and sailing on all points of sail. Sailors will continue to practice essential safety techniques, such as capsize recovery and responding to minor problems, while gaining more responsibility for rigging and handling the boat.
The course also introduces basic decision-making afloat, encouraging sailors to plan simple routes and react to changing conditions. All skills are taught in a supportive, fun, and safe environment, giving participants the confidence to progress to more advanced stages.
What to expect
- Steering and boat control on all points of sail
- Tacking and gybing with improved technique
- Capsize recovery and basic safety procedures
- Planning short routes and responding to changing conditions
- Rigging, launching, and recovering the boat
Prerequisites & course minimum requirements
Participants must have successfully completed the RYA Stage 1 course. This ensures you have the foundational skills needed to safely and confidently progress to Stage 2.
RYA Stage 1
Get started on the water! A 2-day fun and friendly introduction to sailing for children with little or no experience.
Key information
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
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
9:30am - 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
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
9:30am - 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
“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 Stage 2 , the following activities could be your next step:
Improver Sailing Week
The next step for young sailors ages 8 and above who have achieved their RYA Stage 2 and want to progress on to the next level! A refresher of skills…
Sailing Club
Join our Youth Sailing Club to build confidence, practice your skills, and have fun on the water in a safe and supportive environment.
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.
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.