RYA Youth Stage 3 – Sailing Independently
(Ages 8–16)
Our RYA Youth Stage 3 sailing course is where young sailors step into true independence.
At this level, sailors move into single-handed boats and begin taking full responsibility for their own sailing decisions.
Designed for those who have completed Stage 2 (or can already sail a controlled circuit), this course refines technique, improves boat handling and builds confidence in varied conditions.
This is where sailors stop following instructions step-by-step, and start thinking for themselves on the water.
Your Stage Three Explained
We run Stage 3 courses for sailors in one age group (8–16). By the time younger sailors reach Stage 3, they should have developed the confidence and independence needed to sail a boat on their own.
If a younger sailor would prefer to continue sailing with another student in the same boat, we usually recommend repeating Stage 2 to further build confidence before moving into single-handed sailing.
During Stage 3, sailors will:
- Sail a single-handed dinghy independently
- Demstrate the 5 essentails
- Sail accurate triangular courses
- Control boat speed more effectively
- learn the 'rules of the road'
- Learn sailing manoeuvres
There is still structured coaching and feedback, but sailors are encouraged to make their own decisions and solve problems on the water.
The course combines practical sailing with short theory sessions to reinforce understanding.
All participants must be water-confident. All buoyancy aids are provided.
Why Stage 3 Matters
Stage 3 is a turning point.
Sailors begin to:
- Take ownership of their sailing
- Recover from mistakes
- Sail with consistency and control
By the end of the course, sailors are confidently sailing single-handed and are ready to move towards advanced skills, double-handed sailing, or our Start Racing course.
It’s often the stage where confidence grows significantly — both on and off the water.
After Stage 3, students can confidence to go out sailing on their own and hire a boat at most RYA centres.
Course Format
We run RYA Youth Stage 3 courses during:
School holidays
Over Selected weekends
Courses are delivered by qualified RYA instructors in small groups to ensure plenty of individual coaching.
Certification
Sailors who meet the required standard receive the official RYA Youth Stage 3 certificate. Assessment is continuous throughout the course.
Is This the Right Course?
Choose RYA Stage 3 if your child:
- Has completed RYA Youth Stage 2
- Can sail upwind and downwind confidently
- Can tack and gybe with control
- Is ready to sail a boat independently
If they are still building confidence sailing a full circuit, Stage 2 may be more appropriate.
Take the Next Step
If your child is ready for greater independence and more technical sailing skills, RYA Youth Stage 3 is the natural progression.
It’s where young sailors start to feel truly capable on the water.
Checkout our FAQs for more info, including cancellations and what to bring. Please visit our main FAQ page or get in touch with the team.
Keep Sailing Locations
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