Activity overview
If you’ve ever wanted to give sailing a go, this short session is the perfect way to get started. Under the guidance of our friendly instructors, you’ll learn the very basics of sailing while enjoying the excitement of being out on the water. It’s a relaxed introduction designed to give you a feel for the sport and help you decide if you’d like to take it further with a full RYA course.
You’ll get hands-on experience learning how to steer the boat, understand the basics of getting afloat safely, and of course, enjoy the feeling of gliding through the water under sail. The emphasis is on having fun, staying safe, and giving you a real taste of what sailing is all about.
What to expect
- Basic boat controls and how to steer
- How to get afloat safely
- A feel for how the boat moves under sail
- Confidence being out on the water
- The fun and excitement of sailing for the first time
Key information
Timings
13:30 - 15:30 or 18:00 - 20:00
on Sunday afternoons and Tuesday evenings
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
- 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 Sailing Taster Session, the following activities could be your next step:
Adults (16+)
RYA Level 1
Learn the basics of sailing with our RYA Level 1 course. No previous experience is needed, just a willingness to have fun and get on the water.
Ages 8 - 15
RYA Stage 1
Get started on the water! A 2-day fun and friendly introduction to sailing for children with little or no experience.
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.
1 day beginner course
from
£40
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Sailing Taster Session
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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.
