Learning
On the water is a great place to learn - and not just about the
water. You learn a lot about yourself too – working with the
elements or as part of a team.
Learning doesn’t just have to be about boating itself either, you
can re-discover some basic abilities such as concentration and
relaxation or learn more about the UK’s heritage and wildlife from
a boat. For instance the River
Thames is packed with historic sites and museums
There are hundreds of courses in the UK where highly qualified
people give you the chance to:
- Learn a new activity
- Experience adventure
- Work with others
- Expand your mind
But you don’t have to get straight on the water to get some new
skills. Why not dip your toe in the water with an evening class or
correspondence course.
Who can learn?
Almost anyone! You are never too old, or too young.
What can you learn?
For many watersports such as canoeing, windsurfing, rowing,
water skiing, sailing, power boating and motor cruising there are
recognised training programmes.
These are run by the various sports governing bodies such as the
British Canoe Union (BCU), British Rowing and the Royal Yachting
Association (RYA).
When can you learn?
There are opportunities all year round but the summer is a great
time to start, especially if all the family want to get involved.
But if you want a bit of peace and quiet then courses run 365 days
a year.
If you fancy learning in the sun there are recognised centres in
nice warm climates too such as Sunsail and Neilson!
Where can I learn?
Courses take place around the UK - on the sea, on rivers and
lakes, on canals and in the classroom.
To find a course go to your chosen sports web site, check out
the boating magazines or look out for information from your local
authorities.
How much does it cost?
- British Canoe Union 1 Star course - basic “learning to
paddle” in the region of £65 for day’s course
- Intermediate Windsurfing around £200 for a residential two day
course
- Advanced Dinghy sailing - performance weekend from
£145.00
- RYA Competent Crew - the starter course for yachts and
motor yachts, costs in the region of £300 in the UK and around £450
for an overseas course
- Power boat level 1 - for those new to power boating,
costs in the region of £200
- Ladies only sailing week – chance to gain competent crew or Day
Skipper qualifications, around £350 for five days
- One to one tuition on your own boat - costs in the region
of £150 per day