Upon arrival at the sailing centre (SWAC) you will be welcomed by a member of staff and shown where to park. You will then meet your skipper and fellow crew. After completing some essential paperwork and being issued with wet weather gear (if required) you will then be taken to your boat to get settled in.

To make the most of your time with us we always endeavour to set sail on the first evening - this is normally a short passage skippered by your instructor. You’ll be living, learning, eating and sleeping aboard for the duration of your course. Each yacht is freshly provisioned with good, easy to prepare food and everyone is expected to lend a hand in the galley at some stage of the course.

Your instructor will plan things around the tides and the weather, as well as the ability of the crew. Our aim being to make sure, as far as possible, that each person gets the most they possibly can out of the course. We often include overnight stops at anchor or on a swinging mooring - as well as some nights berthed alongside.

Maintenance is an integral parts of seamanship, so don’t be surprised to find yourself being shown how to service a winch or whip a mooring warp - as well as helping to clean the boat at the end of your course.

Finally, be prepared for long, full days. With numbers limited to just three or four per course, you can be sure of first class instruction and plenty of hands-on practice aboard our robust, working boats.  

Clothing - It can get cold at night, even in summer, so bring warm clothes i.e thin thermal layers, long-johns, fleece, woolly hat, gloves, toiletries, towel, wellies, deck shoes/trainers (with a good grip), and only use collapsible bags as there is no room for rigid suitcases. Clothes that dry quickly are preferable to jeans etc. Pack sun block and Lipsyl to prevent skin soreness. Plastic bags are handy for keeping your gear dry. You may find it useful to have your own torch, penknife and notepad. Come prepared for the vagaries of the British climate.

Wet weather gear and sleeping bags - Good quality clothing is essential, and if you do not have your own, the school has foul weather jackets and trousers that you are welcome to borrow (free of charge) along with sleeping bags and liners. We also provide pillows and freshly laundered pillow cases. We highly recommend that you bring sailing wellies/boots with you.

Lifejackets - The boats are of course fully equipped with safety gear and lifejackets, but please bring your own if you prefer.

Food and drink - Food and drink for all meals on board is provided at no extra charge. The school employs the sensible policy of 'no alcohol' during the day. However once the boat is secure for the night we are quite happy for you to relax and enjoy yourselves. Feel free to bring along your own treats and tipple.