Overview

Sailing offers a serene opportunity to travel around the Isle of Man while experiencing the spectacular coastline and marine life in all its glory.

A number of companies around the Island offer sailing courses for beginners and tuition for those who want to improve their skills.

If you’re more of a thrill seeker why not try powerboating? Under the guidance of experienced instructors you’ll be taught the basics before taking control and driving the boat on the open waves.

Along your journey you may be lucky enough to spot some of the animals which call Manx waters home including dolphins, basking sharks and seals. Don’t forget your binoculars!

And if you own your own boat why not leave the stresses of everyday life behind and sail to the Isle of Man? The Island is easily accessible from the UK and Ireland and there are a number of locations where you can dock including the new marina in Peel or in the Island’s capital Douglas.

Suggestions

7th Wave, a RYA recognised watersports training centre in Port Erin in the south of the Island, offers dinghy sailing, powerboat and shore-based courses for all levels of ability between Easter and October. A two hour dinghy taster session costs £39 and a two day powerboat course costs £259.

The Venture Centre in Maughold, in the north of the Island, provides sailing tuition between May and July with many sessions conducted on the boating lake at Mooragh Park. The centre also runs powerboat courses. Sailing lessons start at £20 per hour and a two hour powerboat session costs £150.

Yacht Action, an independent sailing school in Douglas, aims to bring the fun and excitement of yacht sailing and powerboating to visitors. The company specialises in RYA yacht sailing courses as well as powerboat courses and charter trips. Prices vary depending on your requirements.

And if you want someone else to do the hard work why not take a leisurely pleasure cruise around the Island on the classic passenger ship the MV Karina. Trips operate during the summer months from Douglas. Check the boards in the harbour areas for more details.