Complete beginner - RYA DVD/CD training

[biche]

Good day - and thanks for reading.

I once hitch-hiked a ride on yacht, leaving me with the ambition of having my own boat, and single-handed blue water cruising. In about 5 years, I may be in a position to do that.

So....

Where to start on the theory? Everything from knots, through buoys to astral navigation?

I have seen day skipper, yachtmaster, cruising skipper courses for home study on CD/DVDs - are these any good, and which would you recommend?

Thanks for your time and consideration.

Kind regards.

 

[Aeolus]

As a beginner, you'll find that the self-study materials will give you some knowledge but probably little understanding. I would recommend that you do a taught dayskipper theory - the tutor will explain the why and wherefore in a way that self-study won't.

And you must also get out on the water - find someone who will give you some crewing experience (Crewing forum here, local sailing club..., Ashdown Sailing) - you'll not properly understand the theory until you experience it for real.

More specific recommendations may be possible if you stated your location in your profile.

 

[Solitaire]

[ QUOTE ]
through buoys

[/ QUOTE ]

Here is your starter for ten on Buoyage and it's free!

And here is a bit about Knots - also free!

 

[alan17]

Let us know your location. There may well be local people looking for day crew who are also able to give some tuition/guidance.

 

[Tex]

Hi.
Try this

www.longbow-uk.com

They do a very comprehensive training DVD which I have found very good.

Quote:
" “The Complete Course" is just that - an absolutely complete course! From Start Yachting and Competent Crew to Yachtmaster Offshore. Includes working demonstration Tidal Heights, Passage Planning and Chartplotter programs.

The DVD covers all the theory plus a great deal beyond to introduce practical topics to be confident before going afloat."

 

[PaulJS]

I've recently started studying through the Longbow CD, and I will give it a thumbs up. I realise that I'll need practical experience before buying a boat, but it seems like as good a starting point as I could wish for.
It's not the most polished piece of software, but everything works, and there is a massive amount of material.

 

[BrendanS]

Have a look at these courses. Time after time they come highly recommended by people on these forums, and from personal experience I can say the course material is superb, and the tutor feedback is excellent

http://www.cmonline.co.uk/cmohomedom1.html?1IE5+1228583753171

 

[GrowingLad]

2nd that, I'm currently doing the day skipped theory. Very nice course, takes you from the bare basics and builds on it. Plus very quick response from the instructors.

Gets my vote.

 

[Anonymous]

I'd second the suggestion that you contact Ashdown Sailing http://www.ashdownsailing.org.uk/ especially if you have plenty of enthusiasm and a limited budget. Have a careful look at their website.

Being with boaty people is the most valuable training you can have.

 

[biche]

Many thanks.
I'll look into all the suggestions.
Currently, in Bristol - but extremely flexible (depending on next project that comes up).

I appreciate all the input - and look forward to quite a few wintry evenings, tucked up with a warm screen and keyboard.

Best wishes!