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A picture of the Sail & Power sign showing the logo overlooking Estepona Port

FAQs

Read answers to the most common questions we're asked by our new students

  • How are Marbella Sailing School and Sail and Power Academy connected?
    Sail and Power Academy is the new face of Marbella Sailing School. Sail and Power is the umbrella company that offers the following three services: · Sail and Power Academy · Sail and Power Maintenance · Sail and Power Charters The knowledge, expertise and professionalism that was found in Marbella Sailing School is still very present, with several of the same team members actively involved. The rebrand to Sail and Power, showcases the three strong arms of the Sail and Power business, that our trainees, customers, partners and fellow boat owners demand and request, to ensure safe sailing, practical guidance and much more. Sail and Power Academy is fully RYA certified and officially launched in January 2023, Marbella Sailing School may be still be referenced by Sail and Power Academy. Please peruse our website or contact the office, where we will be happy to offer any advice or direct you to a course/service that suits you.
  • Do I need to be physically fit?
    Sailing inevitably involves a bit of physical activity but this is not strenuous. You will be outdoors and active all day so expect to be tired by the end of the week.
  • What is an example itinerary?
    Courses start at 0930 on Monday morning and finish on Friday evening at approximately 1700. The itinerary is dependant on the weather and will be decided by the Instructor once he or she has an up to date forecast. We usually leave our base on the first day and sail along the coast staying in a different Marina each night and return on Wednesday. You will also get the opportunity to anchor in beautiful bays for lunch and a swim.
  • Will I get seasick?
    All of us get seasick from time to time, even me if the weather is bad! Some people feel a bit queasy on the first day but this usually passes and is completely normal. If you are unsure whether you will be affected or not there are various remedies available which work well.
  • Are marina fees included?
    All marina fees are included in the course fees.
  • Is fuel included in the course fee?
    Yes it is. The fuel for the course you take is included in the fee you pay. Exam fuel is also included. At Marbella Sailing School we use the fuel we need so that you get the maximum out of your learning time.
  • I worry about my level of English, what happens if I can't understand the instructor?
    All RYA courses must be taught in English but don’t worry, our instructors are very experienced and used to teaching people whose first language is not English. They are also very patient and explain things in a clear and practical way.
  • What's the difference between Sail and Power Academy and another RYA Training Centre?
    We believe we have the best Yachts and the best location of any sailing school in Europe. We also pride ourselves on the standard of our instructors which is why people keep returning to us time and time again.
  • Can I train on my own boat?
    Yes we can arrange an instructor for you at the rate of 250 euros per day. You can also do Yachtmaster prep weeks and exams on your own yacht. Please contact us for details.
  • Where and when does my course start and what do I need to bring?
    Before your course, we will have told you where it is and when it starts as part of your booking confirmation. Courses typically start at 0930 on Monday morning and finish on Friday evening at approximately 1700. If you are taking a practical course on the water, you should keep a good look at the weather a day or two before your course. We almost never postpone a course due to weather, but safety is paramount so if we do then we will inform you the day before your course is due to start. We have only done this once in 4 years, so it's thankfully very unusual. All the information you need about your course, what to bring, what to wear and how to find our training locations can be found on our online booking page.
  • Do my miles with the sailing school count towards miles in my logbook?
    Of course. All miles you sail count towards your logbook. If you are doing Yachtmaster exams then the mileage must have been accrued within the last 10 years.
  • Do I need any previous experience?
    For some courses yes, but for beginners courses no experience is required. Please see our course information pages for more details.
  • Is smoking allowed onboard?
    No. All of our boats and instructors are non smoking
  • What can I do if I have left something on board the yacht?
    Don't worry. People leave things behind all the time. We will keep it for you in our office and then arrange to send it on to you.
  • Do we stay in a different place each night?
    No. We like to travel along the coast and explore the area. This gives you the true cruising experience.
  • How many miles will we do in a week?
    Between 80 and 120 on a typical course.
  • Who will the instructor be?
    We have a pool of instructors that we use on a regular basis all of whom are RYA Yachtmaster Offshore as a minimum and have trained with us and know the standards that we uphold. If you require a particular instructor please let us know.
  • Do I need insurance?
    We have our own insurance which covers you whilst on the boat. However we always recommend that you take out your own travel insurance to cover things such as lost luggage, flight cancellations and delays, and medical emergencies.
  • What qualification will I get?
    Depending on which course that you attend, and on whether you are successful, you will receive a recognised RYA qualification. Please remember that the RYA standard is the highest in the world and just paying for a course does not guarantee that you will pass! You will have to work hard during the week and show your instructor that you deserve your quaification. This is what makes the RYA the most sought after licenses in the world.
  • What is your Equality Policy
    RYA Policy Statement - The Royal Yachting Association is committed to the principle of equality of opportunity and aims to ensure that all present and potential participants, members, instructors, coaches, competitors, officials, volunteers and employees are treated fairly and on an equal basis, irrespective of sex, age, disability, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership, gender reassignment or social status.
  • What is your complaint's policy?
    If you have a complaint please contact the office immediately.
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