Clubs & Organisations Teaching & Training
Training Centre Test Centre Club Club

Strangford Lough Yacht Club

Whiterock Bay, Newtownards, County Down, BT23 6QY. United Kingdom
Favourite
Claim Listing
Get Directions

About Us

Social-Cover

Contact Details

028 9754 1883 / 07738 390016
office@slyc.co.uk
Website
Address:
Whiterock Bay, Newtownards,
County Down,
BT23 6QY
United Kingdom
Get Directions
Local Information:

Services & Activities

Strangford Lough Yacht Club offers the following RYA related services:
Test Centre Club Club

RYA Courses

Strangford Lough Yacht Club is an RYA recognised Training Centre offering courses run under RYA Training Schemes.
RYA Schemes Offered
Essential Navigation Feature 150x150

Essential Navigation and Seamanship

Beginner
Classroom
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is a shore-based program that introduces basic navigation and safety skills. Topics include reading charts, understanding tides, and using navigation tools. Participants also learn how to interpret weather forecasts and plan passages. This course is ideal for sailors, motorboaters, and anyone new to the water, providing a strong foundation for safe and confident boating.
Full Course Details
DSSCC Carousel 1 2 150x150

Day Skipper Theory

Beginner
Intermediate
Classroom
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Day Skipper Theory course provides aspiring skippers with the knowledge to navigate safely in coastal waters. This comprehensive program covers chart work, tidal calculations, meteorology, and collision regulations. Delivered over approximately 40 hours, the course prepares participants for practical Day Skipper qualifications and builds confidence in passage planning and navigation.
Full Course Details
CSYOSCC Carousel 1 150x150

Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory

Intermediate
Advanced
Classroom
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course is an advanced shore-based program for experienced sailors. Topics include complex navigation, advanced meteorology, and passage planning in tidal waters. Participants also learn about collision regulations and safety protocols for offshore passages. This course is essential for those preparing for the Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.
Full Course Details
Level 1 powerboat 150x150

Level 1 Start Powerboating (PB1)

Beginner
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Level 1 Start Powerboating course introduces beginners to the basics of powerboat handling. Participants learn low-speed maneuvers, safety checks, and launching and recovering powerboats. Delivered in a practical, hands-on format, this one-day course builds foundational skills and confidence, preparing participants for the Level 2 Powerboat Handling course.
Full Course Details
Essential Navigation Feature 150x150

Essential Navigation and Seamanship

Beginner
Classroom
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is a shore-based program that introduces basic navigation and safety skills. Topics include reading charts, understanding tides, and using navigation tools. Participants also learn how to interpret weather forecasts and plan passages. This course is ideal for sailors, motorboaters, and anyone new to the water, providing a strong foundation for safe and confident boating.
Full Course Details
Powerboat Level 2 150x150

Level 2 Powerboat Handling (PB2)

Beginner
Intermediate
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Level 2 Powerboat Handling course is a comprehensive two-day program that teaches participants the skills needed to operate powerboats confidently and safely. This course covers high-speed maneuvers, docking, navigation, and emergency procedures. Participants practice practical skills such as anchoring, recovering a man overboard, and handling various water conditions. Successful completion allows participants to apply for an International Certificate of Competence (ICC), making it a vital qualification for both recreational and professional powerboat operators.
Full Course Details
DSSCC Carousel 1 2 150x150

Day Skipper Theory

Beginner
Intermediate
Classroom
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Day Skipper Theory course provides aspiring skippers with the knowledge to navigate safely in coastal waters. This comprehensive program covers chart work, tidal calculations, meteorology, and collision regulations. Delivered over approximately 40 hours, the course prepares participants for practical Day Skipper qualifications and builds confidence in passage planning and navigation.
Full Course Details
CSYOSCC Carousel 1 150x150

Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory

Intermediate
Advanced
Classroom
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore Theory course is an advanced shore-based program for experienced sailors. Topics include complex navigation, advanced meteorology, and passage planning in tidal waters. Participants also learn about collision regulations and safety protocols for offshore passages. This course is essential for those preparing for the Coastal Skipper or Yachtmaster Offshore practical exams.
Full Course Details
Powerboating

Safety Boat

Intermediate
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Safety Boat course is essential for those providing rescue and safety cover for water sports or racing events. Participants learn advanced techniques for towing, recovering capsized boats, and assisting different types of watercraft. The course emphasizes proactive planning, effective communication, and managing safety operations in varying conditions. Ideal for club volunteers, instructors, and event organizers, this two-day course ensures participants are prepared to handle emergencies with confidence and efficiency.
Full Course Details
FAC Carousel 1 150x150

First Aid

Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Classroom
Course Overview
The RYA First Aid course is a one-day program tailored to the unique challenges of the marine environment. Participants learn essential first aid techniques, including CPR, treating hypothermia, and managing injuries at sea. The course also covers using marine-specific safety equipment and responding to emergencies like drowning or cold water shock. It’s a vital qualification for skippers, crew members, and water sports enthusiasts, ensuring preparedness for medical incidents on the water.
Full Course Details
Youth Scheme
image

Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 1

Beginner
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 1 is an entry-level course for children aged 8–12. This program introduces young sailors to the basics of dinghy sailing, including rigging, steering, and controlling the sail. Delivered in a fun and safe environment, the course emphasizes building confidence and understanding water safety. Practical exercises help participants learn to navigate in light winds, setting a solid foundation for future sailing endeavors. By the end, young sailors will be ready to progress to the next stage with enthusiasm and foundational skills.
Full Course Details
image

Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 2

Beginner
Intermediate
Afloat
Course Overview
Building on Stage 1, the RYA Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 2 equips young sailors with more advanced techniques. Participants learn to handle their dinghies in various wind conditions, practicing tacking, gybing, and balancing the boat effectively. The course emphasizes developing independence while maintaining safety. By the end, participants will have the skills to navigate confidently and manage their boats in moderate conditions, preparing them for more challenging stages of the Youth Sailing Scheme.
Full Course Details
image

Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 3

Beginner
Intermediate
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 3 focuses on refining skills and building self-reliance on the water. Young sailors learn how to sail upwind and downwind effectively, handle stronger winds, and perform advanced maneuvers like gybing with precision. This course introduces the principles of navigation and prepares participants for independent dinghy sailing. By the end, participants will feel confident managing their boats in a variety of conditions, opening the door to competitive sailing or advanced training.
Full Course Details
image

Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 4

Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Youth Sailing Scheme – Start Sailing Stage 4 is the culmination of the youth sailing program, focusing on advanced boat handling and decision-making. Participants refine their skills in navigation, sail trimming, and managing boats in challenging conditions. The course introduces racing techniques and strategies, encouraging teamwork and self-confidence. By the end, young sailors will be ready to explore competitive sailing or take on leadership roles in group sailing activities.
Full Course Details
Adult Courses
image

Dinghy Level 1 – Start Sailing

Beginner
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Level 1 course is an introductory program for beginners learning the fundamentals of sailing. Participants practice rigging, launching, and steering dinghies in a safe and supportive environment. The course emphasizes safety and confidence-building, with hands-on sessions focused on controlling the boat in light winds. By the end, participants will have the basic skills to sail under supervision and progress to the next level.
Full Course Details
image

Dinghy Level 2 – Basic Skills

Beginner
Intermediate
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Level 2 course builds on the foundation of Level 1, teaching participants to sail independently. Sailors practice tacking, gybing, and navigating various wind directions while reinforcing safety procedures. Practical sessions also include capsize recovery and basic navigation. By the end of the course, participants will be confident handling dinghies in moderate conditions, making it a significant step toward advanced sailing.
Full Course Details
image

Dinghy Level 3 – Better Sailing

Beginner
Intermediate
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Level 3 course focuses on refining sailing techniques and building confidence in more challenging conditions. Participants enhance their understanding of sail trim, boat balance, and navigation. The course introduces more advanced maneuvers and emphasizes decision-making and problem-solving on the water. By the end, sailors will have the skills to handle their boats with precision and prepare for specialized courses like spinnaker handling or racing.
Full Course Details
Advanced Courses
image

Dinghy Day Sailing

Intermediate
Advanced
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Day Sailing course equips sailors with the knowledge and skills to plan and execute safe and enjoyable day trips. The course emphasizes navigation, trip preparation, and weather assessment to ensure a smooth sailing experience. Participants learn anchoring, mooring, and responding to changing wind and tidal conditions. Practical exercises simulate real-world scenarios, focusing on safety and self-reliance. By the end of the course, participants will have the confidence to undertake independent day sailing adventures while ensuring the safety of their crew and vessel.
Full Course Details
image

Dinghy Seamanship Skills

Intermediate
Advanced
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Seamanship Skills course focuses on developing practical abilities to handle dinghies in a variety of conditions. Participants learn essential techniques like reefing, recovering from capsizes, and maneuvering in confined spaces. The course also emphasizes safety procedures and problem-solving, preparing sailors for challenges such as strong winds, tidal streams, or equipment failures. Practical sessions build confidence in mooring, anchoring, and heaving-to. By the end of the course, participants will feel equipped to handle dinghies safely and independently, making it ideal for those aiming to enhance their overall sailing competency.
Full Course Details
image

Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers

Intermediate
Advanced
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Sailing with Spinnakers course introduces sailors to the exciting challenge of spinnaker handling. Participants learn how to rig, hoist, trim, and gybe spinnakers effectively while managing boat balance and speed. The course also covers safety procedures, troubleshooting, and teamwork essential for using spinnakers in varying wind conditions. By the end, participants will feel confident incorporating spinnakers into their sailing repertoire, adding a new dimension to their dinghy sailing adventures.
Full Course Details
Racing Courses
Dinghy

Dinghy Start Racing

Intermediate
Advanced
Afloat
Course Overview
The RYA Dinghy Start Racing course is perfect for sailors looking to begin their journey into competitive sailing. This course covers racing basics, including starting procedures, racing rules, and strategic boat positioning. Practical sessions focus on mark rounding, optimizing boat speed, and handling the pressure of competition. By practicing simulated races, participants build confidence in decision-making and teamwork. This course lays a solid foundation for those aspiring to join club races or regional competitions.
Full Course Details
image

Safe and Fun Safeguarding

Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Online
Course Overview
The RYA Safe and Fun Safeguarding course is an online program aimed at instructors, coaches, and volunteers working with children and vulnerable adults in a boating context. The course provides guidance on recognizing and responding to safeguarding concerns, creating a safe environment, and understanding legal responsibilities. It’s a mandatory qualification for RYA instructors and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding in all boating activities.
Full Course Details
FAC Carousel 1 150x150

First Aid

Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Classroom
Course Overview
The RYA First Aid course is a one-day program tailored to the unique challenges of the marine environment. Participants learn essential first aid techniques, including CPR, treating hypothermia, and managing injuries at sea. The course also covers using marine-specific safety equipment and responding to emergencies like drowning or cold water shock. It’s a vital qualification for skippers, crew members, and water sports enthusiasts, ensuring preparedness for medical incidents on the water.
Full Course Details

ICC Test Centre

Strangford Lough Yacht Club is an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) Test Centre authorised to conduct ICC tests.
  • ICC Motor 10M Test

RYA Club

Strangford Lough Yacht Club is an RYA Affiliated Club.
  • Dinghy racing
  • Motor Boating
  • Sportsboat RIBS
  • Yacht Cruising
  • Yacht Racing

Onboard Club

Strangford Lough Yacht Club is an OnBoard Club, offering children the opportunity to try watersports in a safe, fun and structured environment.

OnBoard is the RYA's children's sailing and windsurfing programme. It allows children to try watersports through their local club or training centre in a safe, fun and structured environment.

Open to all children, OnBoard is a beginner programme that gets people on the water for the first time. Whether you would like to learn how to sail or windsurf, no experience or equipment is needed to get you started. The programme is progressive, and you can work through the RYA Youth Schemes.

As well as getting fresh air and exercise, children's sailing and windsurfing offer various invaluable life skills, from problem-solving to confidence and teamwork.

Get OnBoard

Leave a Review.

Select a rating