FAQ's :- RYA Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers

How much will the Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers course cost including exam fees?

This course can cost anything up to £400 (Approx $620, or 510 EUROS) depending on where you are doing it, who with and whether you have a club membership discount.

What will you get out of learning to fly a spinnaker?

The spinnaker vastly increases your speed downwind. This course will teach you how to fly either a spinnaker or an asymmetric spinnaker depending on the class of boat you wish to sail.

What are your safe limits on passing this?

This course aims at teaching you how to fly a spinnaker in a good wind. In too much wind you can blow the sail out, or even charging down wind you can pitchpole. This course will show you the techniques to avoid ending up embarrassing yourself or ending up in the drink.

Is the Spinnakers course shorebased, practical or both?

Practical, though you will discuss how to launch and dowse the spinnaker on the dock as well.

Where can you take this course?

You can take the Spinnakers course anywhere that has RYA accreditation and offers such a course.

Can you do it in another country?

Yes.

What level of experience do you need before you begin?

You should have an RYA Dinghy Level 2 qualification or the experience to match.

How long does the course take?

Two days, though this can be combined with the RYA Performance Sailing course over four days.

What does the course involve?

You will learn how to fly a symmetric or asymmetric spinnaker. You will learn how to launch and dowse it without embarrassing yourself, as well as boat handling downwind under spinnaker. You will learn to gybe the spinnaker as well in most conditions.

How do I progress after completing it?

You can do the RYA Performance Sailing course.

Does the RYA Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers course give you international accreditation?

No

Where can I learn more?

Consider buying a book on performance sailing from the RYA website.

Have a look at the RYA course details here.

Find out more about advanced dinghy courses here.