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Adults (16+)

RYA Start Windsurfing

Take your first steps on a windsurfing board with this beginner-friendly course. Perfect for those with little or no experience, you’ll learn the fundamentals of handling a board and sail in a safe and supportive environment.
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Activity overview

Over a weekend, this course introduces you to the basics of windsurfing, helping you gain confidence on the water. You will learn to control the sail, balance on the board, and sail in the direction you want, giving you the essential skills to enjoy this exciting sport.

Through guided practice in light winds, you will learn how to tack and gybe, as well as how to sail to a chosen point on the water. By the end of the course, you will be able to manage yourself and your board with confidence and be ready to progress to more advanced windsurfing skills.

What to expect

  • Basic sail and board handling
  • Balancing and stance on the board
  • Sailing in all directions
  • Tacking and gybing in light winds
  • Planning safe sessions on the water

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
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
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?

Explore All Activities

After completing the RYA Start Windsurfing, the following activities could be your next step:

Adults (16+)
Explore activity details & book
RYA Intermediate Windsurfing (Non-Planing)

Take your windsurfing further with smoother, quicker manoeuvres and improved control in stronger winds.

Prices from £260
Adults (16+)
Explore activity details & book
Adult Windsurfing Club

A fun, social weekly club for adults with RYA Start Windsurfing (or equivalent). Practice, progress, and enjoy time on the water.

Prices from £30

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 beginner course
from £0

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RYA Start Windsurfing
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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.