Beginner Training

The aim of Optimist training is to introduce children to sailing in a safe and fun environment. Most of the local clubs run courses during the sailing season - visit their websites for details or see courses on offer here.

First level of training introduces children to the basic theory such as: parts of the boat, rigging, safety, rules and capsize drill. Then onto the water where they can put the theory into practice and get a feel for the boat.

The next level of training will introduce the novice to handling the boat in a variety of weather and water conditions. Progressing to the next level, the novice will begin to learn about racing and advanced boat handling. At this stage they will be able to participate in regattas as a “B fleeter”.

Download a guide to the Optimist class in South Africa, intended for parents who have had little previous contact with the class here