Inspiration

Top Tips for Your First Traditional Sailing Holiday

No Experience Required

Top Tips from customers

Don’t feel under pressure everybody learns at different speeds. Its ok to observe for a bit.

Go to learn & have Fun! 

Be prepared to muck in & offer to help with anything from hauling up sails to peeling spuds. 

Be prepared for Not sailing with all sails up.. there’s often too much or too little wind but just make the most of every opportunity to learn.

Ready to Sail? 

If you’re thinking about trying traditional sailing, no experience is necessary. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned sailor looking for something different, Classic Sailing offers a great opportunity to learn as you go. Our trips are all about hands-on, practical sailing, making it ideal for anyone who wants to try it out..

Why Classic Sailing?

Since 1997, we’ve introduced thousands of people to sailing. Most come alone, and many have never sailed before. With expert skippers and all safety equipment provided, you’re in safe hands. While we offer RYA courses, you don’t need to start with one – any of our voyages will teach you the ropes.

Practical Sailing – You’re Part of the Crew

On all our voyages, you’ll be a key part of the crew. Whether you’re on a smaller vessel or a tall ship, you’ll learn by doing. No need to worry about strength or agility – there’s a job for everyone. From handling sails to steering, you’ll leave feeling like a true sailor.

Accommodation – Simple and Shared

Life on board is cosy, with shared cabins for four or more people or for those seeking more privacy, many ships also offer two-berth cabins, available for pairs or single occupancy at an additional cost..

Most sailors travel solo, making this a great way to meet others. All shared cabins are single-gender.

Safety – You’re in Good Hands

Safety is our top priority. All our vessels are regularly inspected, and our captains are highly experienced. Before you set sail, you’ll receive a full safety briefing covering everything from life jackets to emergency procedures. Life rafts and first aid kits are standard on every vessel.

Learn as You Go

With Classic Sailing, every trip is an opportunity to learn new skills, even if you’re just here for the adventure. You’ll quickly pick up the basics as part of the crew, and by the end of your trip, you’ll feel confident and accomplished.

Things you will need to take with you;

Every voyage has a detailed kit list on the description page.

  • Waterproofs,
  • Wellington boots
  • Personal clothing and travel accessories and a beach towel if you are swimming.
  • Travel insurance.

Things you wont need to take.

  • Lifejackets
  • Food
  • Bedding (A few vessels may require you to bring your own.)

Diet

Dietary requirements are sought on your application form.

Health and fitness

All short voyages only require normal health fitness. 

No Experience Needed – Just a Sense of Adventure

You don’t need any prior sailing experience to join us. All you need is a sense of adventure and a willingness to learn. So, if you’re ready to try something new, trust that you’ll be safe, involved, and well on your way to becoming a sailor.

Top Tips

1. Go to learn & have Fun! 

2. Be prepared to muck in & offer to help with anything from hauling up sails to peeling spuds. 

3. Be prepared for Not sailing with all sails up.. there’s often too much or too little wind but just make the most of every opportunity to learn.

Thanks Naomi

First time sailing holidays 

Did you like this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

We are sorry that this post was not to your liking.

Let us improve this post!

Please tell us how we can do better.

Did you like this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

We are sorry that this post was not to your liking.

Let us improve this post!

Please tell us how we can do better.

More Stories

21/05 Boat building

“Skills Which I Can Take Literally Anywhere”

Former Paratrooper Steve Brown thought he didn’t have the skills or the funds to get into boatbuilding, but ‘fate’ led him to the BBA.

Read More
sailing in the breidurfjordur, iceland

14/05 Inspiration

Walking the Wild Edges: Sailing to Remote Coasts and Islands

Walking the Wild Edges: Sailing to Remote Coasts and Islands If you enjoy both walking and sailing we have some brilliant voyages for you,

Read More

28/04 Cold Climate Sailing

Postcards from Antarctica

Tecla’s log entries from their recent voyages read like postcards from the edge of the world…

Read More