CHRISTCHURCH SAILING FIELD GUIDE
Six weeks to your first solo sail: a hands-on beginner course on Christchurch’s shore
A six-week, twice-weekly evening program that mixes immediate on-water practice with shore-based drills so beginners build practical skill and confidence.
Six weeks to your first solo sail: a hands-on beginner course on Christchurch’s shore.
Learn to sail in six structured, hands-on sessions that prioritize getting you afloat from the first evening; through a mix of short on-water sails and shore drills you’ll feel the wind, learn basic boat handling and by course end be prepared to sail independently or with friends.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
On‑water sailing from day one
The course is built around the conviction that being on the water is the fastest way to learn: instructors intend to get you sailing in every session, weather permitting, so each evening is hands‑on practice rather than classroom theory alone.
A relaxed, safe learning environment
Instruction is designed to be relaxed and enjoyable while maintaining safety — theory and land drills are fitted around conditions so the group keeps learning even when the weather is unfavourable.
From basics to confident sailing
Across six sessions the syllabus covers complete basics so that by the end participants should have the skills and knowledge to sail independently or confidently with others.
What the day feels like
What the six‑week course feels like
Evening sessions run as short, focused two‑hour blocks that alternate on‑water sail time with shore‑based explanation and drills; instructors aim to put students in boats each week and to use clubhouse or dinghy‑park time to teach theory when conditions aren’t suitable for sailing.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this course suits — and who it’s built for.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Six weekly sessions held on Fridays; each session runs about two hours in the evening (6–8pm).
Meet at the ShoreSports trailer on Mudeford Quay for each session.
Bring two sets of clothing (one for land work, one for going on the water). Shoresports can provide wetsuits (wear swimwear underneath) and can supply wetsuit shoes, buoyancy aids and helmets where required.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Who is the course aimed at?
Being a beginners course this is aimed at anyone wanting to get sailing, possibly for the first time or those wanting to build confidence and understanding.
Is it suitable for first‑time sailors?
Yes — the course is intended for beginners and people starting their sailing journey.
Will I be able to sail by myself after the course?
The instructors would love to get you confident sailing on your own; by the end they anticipate you will have the basic skills and knowledge to sail independently or with others.
Who will be teaching the course?
It is likely the course will be taught by Nick and Lucy, or by other instructors brought in as needed.
What are the instructors’ credentials and experience?
Nick and Lucy are both qualified RYA Dinghy Instructors; Nick has over 25 years of professional sailing instruction experience and Lucy has been instructing for around three years and grew up in the business.