Learn to sail

While to some sailing is an all-consuming and great hobby, to others it is a serious sport. But whatever you want to get from it - fun or fierce competition - take comfort in the knowledge that it is very easy to learn how to do it – probably much easier than you think.

One thing you should know about learning how to sail is that sooner or later – probably sooner to be honest – you will lose control of your boat and it will turn over. The obvious consequence of this is you will end up in the drink. Not good if you’re on a reservoir in Manchester in the UK in November (as this fool was during his first sailing lesson) but actually quite pleasant if it’s 35C and you’re bobbling around on the clear blue Med’. And that’s the main reason Malta is such a great place to learn the ropes! There are others too! The moderate climate all year round, the beautiful scenery, the lack of tides of big waves, the warm breezes and the lack of anything approaching hurricane force winds all add to its appeal.

Many enthusiasts say that sailing can be almost like flying. As your boat cruises along with the wind, the sound of the water and the breeze on your face will give you a real sensation of freedom. Your boat can almost be described as coming to life as it bobs along, acting in harmony with the wind and sea – under your expert control of course.


Regardless of the differences in type and size, all sailboats work the same way, harnessing the wind for propulsion. Once you learn the basics, and get the gist of how to set sail, you will be able to move from small boats to larger ones.


With its perfect prevailing conditions, Malta is resident to some of the best sailing schools in the world. These offer courses from basic ‘get in and have a go’ sessions to internationally recognised certification.
All Maltese sailing academies are aware that no matter how favourable the Mediterranean waters can be, you can never be too safe at sea. This is why they adopt very strict regulations, and take every possible precaution to ensure that new sailing cadets receive all the necessary training before obtaining their qualifications and are let loose on a boat of their own. 


There is so much more to sailing than just steering a boat. Sailors are not only responsible for the safety of the boats and their crew, but especially for swimmers and divers. It is important to know the international regulations concerning what equipment is legally required.   


The Malta Sailing Academy is for ‘serious’ sailors and provides Royal Yachting Association courses that will result in you getting an internationally recognised certificate. These range from the basics of crewing a yacht to qualifying you to skipper own ocean-going vessel.

For a cheaper option and for those who would simply like to have a go, try Fairwind Sailing. This school offers a range of dinghy and yacht courses all covered with ISSA (International Sailing Schools Association) certification. All equipment is included in the price, which range from €15 to €40 per hour. Whole day sessions can be bought from €50 and you can hire wetsuits for an additional €5. Taster sessions, which are accompanied by an instructor for the entire session, cost €35 per hour. For full details check out the web link below.