Sailing Adventure at West Cork Sailing Centre
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape, able to handle physical tasks on deck and long hours at sea.
Overview
Set sail along Ireland’s rugged southwest coast with the Irish Sailing Coastal Skipper Training Course at West Cork Sailing Centre. Perfect for intermediate sailors, this course combines intensive navigation training with immersive seafaring experiences.
Irish Sailing Coastal Skipper Training Course
Ages 18+ • Contact us for details on training options to suit you and dates
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 6-day Yachtmaster Coastal (Sail) course, where you'll gain essential skills to navigate unfamiliar waters by day and night. Experience the thrill of sailing along the coast, exploring new ports, and living aboard your yacht. Perfect for those ready to enhance their sailing adventure!
Taking your boat out a little further along the coast and into the night is thrilling.
The aim of the Yachtmaster Coastal (Sail) course is to provide participants with the basic skills and knowledge necessary to skipper a sailing yacht by night and day in waters with which they are not familiar. So you can venture further and enjoy what the coastline and new ports have to offer.
Is this the course / adventure for you?
To ensure you are booking the correct course we recommend you email us on westcorksailing@gmail.com to discuss your needs, wants and ability.
Prerequisites
Minimum 15 days at sea, 300 miles logged, and at least 8 hours at night and 2 days as skipper.
Duration
6 days and 5 nights living aboard
Embark & Disembark
From Adrigole Pier, unless otherwise arranged or if weather requires an alternative
Adventure Tips
Check weather forecasts daily
Irish coastal waters are changeable; staying updated on weather is crucial for safety.
Practice night sailing in calm conditions
Before tackling overnight passages, ensure you're comfortable with night navigation under supervision.
Review local maritime charts beforehand
Familiarity with Irish navigation charts enhances confidence and safety onboard.
Communicate clearly with crew members
Effective communication is key during maneuvers and emergency situations.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Harbor seals
- Bottle-nosed dolphins
History
West Cork has a rich maritime history dating back to Vikings and early explorers, with many old lighthouses and shipwreck sites along the coast.
Conservation
The sailing center actively promotes sustainable practices—limiting waste, respecting marine habitats, and encouraging eco-friendly sailing.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cork
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof sailing jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable during unpredictable Irish weather.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Non-slip deck shoes
Provides grip on wet surfaces, ensuring safety onboard.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Vital for safety during all sailing activities.
Headlamp or torch
Necessary for night navigation and troubleshooting after dark.