ActiveSailing

Learn-to-sail courses, junior & school programmes, membership, corporate sailing, and Marina Bay public sailing.

Key Information for Parents Before Enrolling Their Child 

Q1. What can my child expect to learn in the sailing classes?

The Singapore Sailing Federation offers several introductory courses, including the Optimist Junior, ILCA, and Basic Sailing Courses. In all of these, students will learn the fundamentals of sailing, such as boat handling, on-water safety, and basic navigation. The curriculum covers essential sailing terminology and manoeuvres like tacking, gybing, and trimming, as well as key concepts like wind dynamics and right-of-way rules.

Q2. What are the potential risks, and how are injuries managed?

While sailing is a relatively safe sport, all outdoor activities carry some inherent risks. Common minor injuries include cuts, sprains, or rope burns. Occasionally, a student might be hit by the boom (the horizontal pole at the bottom of the sail) during a turn, which can result in bruises or, in rare cases, require stitches.

These incidents are not life-threatening and serve as valuable learning experiences, teaching students to be more situationally aware. Sailing fosters a deep respect for the elements and develops adaptability—essential life skills for navigating today's unpredictable world. Our instructors are trained to manage these situations safely and effectively.

Before each programme begins, we will provide a list of recommended items to bring, along with joining instructions. For more information on essential items, please click here.

Q3. How physically demanding are the classes?

Our courses are designed to be both physically and mentally engaging. Each session will challenge students, ensuring they go home with a healthy appetite and are ready for a good night's sleep. A key benefit of our program is that it gives children an excellent opportunity to spend their weekends active outdoors, away from screens and devices. We aim to cultivate a lifelong love of sport and nature while helping reduce dependence on social media and gadgets.

Q4. Why should my child choose sailing over other sports?

Sailing is a unique sport that builds character, physical strength, and mental resilience. It teaches a profound respect for the outdoors while pushing individuals to their limits. It offers a special blend of adventure and skill, making it an enriching experience.

Q5. What key benefits can I expect for my child?

Sailing provides a unique combination of physical and mental benefits. It improves cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and relieves stress. It fosters independence and self-reliance and is also a highly social activity that builds camaraderie and lasting friendships among participants.

Q6. Is my child too young to start sailing at age 7?

Not at all! Our sailing program is designed for children ages 7 to 12. Age 7 is a great time to start, as the program is tailored to suit young beginners with age-appropriate instruction and safety in mind.

Q7. Does my child need to know how to swim before joining sailing classes?

Yes, your child should be able to swim at least 50 meters while wearing a life jacket. This basic swimming ability is important for safety and confidence on the water.

Q8. Is sailing physically demanding for kids this age?

Yes, sailing can be physically and mentally demanding, but in a very positive and rewarding way—especially for children. It’s an excellent activity for developing independence, decision-making skills, and confidence. Being out on the water alone in a boat helps children overcome fears and build resilience. While they learn to manage the boat, they also gain a better understanding of teamwork and the importance of helping others, both on and off the water. It’s not just a sport—it’s a life skill that shapes character, responsibility, and self-reliance in a fun and engaging environment.

Q9. How qualified are the sailing coaches and instructors?

All our coaches, whether working with kids or adults, are fully certified. They must obtain the necessary coaching qualifications and certifications before leading any training sessions, ensuring a safe, high-quality learning experience for all participants. Our coaches have years of experience working with young sailors and understand how to build confidence and skills progressively in a fun, supportive environment.

Q10. What is the policy if my child wants to quit before the course ends?

We strongly encourage all participants to complete the course, as overcoming challenges is a core part of personal growth. However, we understand that extenuating circumstances may arise. Click here for more information.

Course Information

Q1. How do I sign my child (or myself) up for a learn-to-sail course? What's the schedule and what does it cost?

To sign up for any course, you’ll first need to register for a Sailor ID. If you are registering your child as a participant, please create the account using your child's details.

If neither you nor your child belong to an affiliate club, simply select “No Club” on the registration page.

You can view upcoming schedules, course details, and fees by selecting your program below:

• Opti Junior

• Opti Sailor

• Opti Racer

• Basic Sailing Course

Q2. What type of boats will my child be learning to sail on? Is there a minimum age or weight for Learn to Sail courses, and can exceptions be made?

Yes, each program is tied to a specific dinghy or foil board. Requirements depend on age, physical size, and the leverage needed to manage that class in local waters: 

Mandatory Safety Rule across all courses: Every participant must be able to swim 50 meters wearing a Personal Flotation Device (PFD). 

Contact us at info@singaporesailing.org.sg before registering if you are unsure which course is suitable.

Q3. Are there opportunities for progression or competition later on?

Yes, absolutely. Beginner sailors follow a structured progression pathway, starting with foundational skills and gradually advancing through different levels of training. As they gain experience and confidence, we assess them to ensure they are ready for the next stage. Once they reach a certain level of competence, they can participate in sailing events and regattas. These competitions are a great way for young sailors to challenge themselves, apply what they've learned, and grow further in the sport.

Q4. What is the course progression pathway — what do I do after finishing a course?

Our programs follow structured national pathways designed for skill progression, recreational sailing, and racing:

1. Junior Optimist Pathway (Ages 7–12)

• Level 1: Opti Junior (Introductory & Ocean Exploration)

• Level 2: Opti Sailor (Basic Boat Handling & Wind Awareness)

• Level 3: Opti Racer (Foundational Racing Rules & Tactics)

• Next Step: After earning your Opti Racer certification, sailors can join the Opti Advanced Training Squads and compete in local regattas.

2. Teen & Adult Dinghy Pathway (Ages 13+)

• Level 1: Basic Sailing Course (Attain your Dinghy Level 1 Certification)

• Privileges Earned: Rent/charter single-handed dinghies at affiliate sailing clubs across Singapore.

• Next Step: Join the ILCA C Squad (Foundational Skills & Techniques) or adult club sailing sessions with an affiliate club to continue sharpening your boat control.

3. Youth Wingfoil Pathway (Ages 9–16 | Singaporeans Only) 

• General Wingfoil Track (Flexible Water-Time):

• BraveSails (Open): Classes run daily from Monday to Sunday. Coaches customise each lesson to your individual ability, making it the ideal way for all foilers to gain experience and maximise time on the water.

For the full Wingfoil schedule, click here.

• Competitive Race Track:

• Step 1: Complete a minimum of 8 BraveSails (Open) classes to build core skills.

• Step 2: Upon receiving a coach's recommendation, advance directly to Wingfoil Intermediate & Race Training.

Q5. Can I get a make-up class if I miss a session due to illness, travel, exam clash or other personal reasons? Are refunds offered?

No. We do not offer make-up sessions or refundsfor personal absences (such as travel or schedule clashes) or for sessions affected by weather disruptions. 

• Inclement Weather Policy: Classes proceed as scheduled unless safety is compromised (e.g., lightning warnings, poor visibility, or extreme conditions unsuitable for the participants' skill level). In severe weather, on-water activities shift to shore-based theory, rigging drills, or other indoor activities as deemed suitable by the head coach. 

Kindly refer to our Terms and Conditions for more information.

• Attendance Guideline: While 100% attendance is strongly encouraged for optimal skill development and safety, participants should avoid missing more than 20% of planned sessions to avoid falling behind in skill proficiency.

• Notifying Your Coach: If you or your child knows you will miss a session, please inform your head coach as early as possible so they can adjust the practical assessment schedule.

Q6. Do you offer keelboat, competent crew, or skipper certification courses?

Singapore Sailing Federation focuses primarily on dinghy and board pathways (such as Optimist, ILCA, 29er and Wingfoil). We do not directly conduct adult keelboat or skipper certification programs.

For keelboat training and/or certifications, we recommend reaching out directly to our affiliate clubs such as:

• Changi Sailing Club (CSC)

• SAF Yacht Club (SAFYC)

• Raffles Marina

Q7. Can I use SkillsFuture Credit to pay for a course?

No. SSF courses are currently not eligible for SkillsFuture Credit. You must pay all course fees directly through our online registration portal when you sign up. 

Q8. I already hold a sailing certificate from overseas — can I skip ahead / which level should I join?

Yes, prior overseas sailing experience or certifications may qualify you to enter at a higher level. We assess equivalencies on a case-by-case basis.

To request an assessment, please email info@singaporesailing.org.sg with the following details:

• Proof of Certification: A copy or photo of your official sailing certificate.

• Sailing Experience: A summary of your sea time, boat classes sailed, and how recently you last sailed.

• Target Course: The program or level you are hoping to join.

Our team will review your credentials and advise you on the appropriate entry level.

Q8. What do I need to bring to class (e.g. helmet, PFD, water shoes)?

Recommended list of items to bring / attire are:

• Safety Gear 

• Helmet – Bicycle or roller-skate helmet (applicable for Opti Junior Program ONLY)

• Rubber-soled covered shoes or sailing booties
  (Strictly no sandals or open-toe footwear)

• Clothing & Accessories

• Rash guard or T-shirt, and swim tights or long pants (for on-water sessions)

• Cap or hat (preferably with a strap)

• Sunblock lotion (with high SPF)

• Sunglasses with high retention strap

• Sailing gloves

• Personal Flotation Device (PFD) 

• Personal Items to bring

• Whistle (for emergency use)

• Refillable water bottle

• Towel

• Full change of clothes (including footwear)

• Notebook & pen/pencil for note-taking

• NRIC or Passport for Singaporean Only (for verification purposes)

• Meals & Snacks – Please Pack Your Own

• Packed lunch (applicable for full-day session) 

• Light snacks (e.g., energy bar, banana, etc.)

Q9. Is there an ongoing recreational/social sailing option for adults after I finish the Basic Sailing Course?

The Singapore Sailing Federation does not currently offer ongoing recreational or social sailing programs.

However, with your Dinghy Level 1 Certification, you are eligible to rent boats and join social sailing activities at our affiliates, including Constant Wind, Changi Sailing Club, and SAF Yacht Club. Please contact them directly for rental rates and club opportunities.

Q10. How do I create a Sailor ID, and do I need one before registering for a course, event, or storage?

Yes. Every participant (adult or child) must have an active Sailor ID before registering for any SSF course, event, or charter.

How to Register for a Sailor ID:

1. Create an Account: Visit our online registration portal.

2. Enter Participant Details: If you are registering your child, create the account using your child’s personal details (e.g., full name and NRIC/FIN/Birth Certificate number), not the parent's.

3. Select Club Affiliation: If you or your child do not belong to an affiliated sailing club, simply select “No Club” on the dropdown menu.

Q11. How do I become a member, and what does membership cost?

As the National Sports Association for sailing in Singapore, the Singapore Sailing Federation is a governing body rather than a social club, and we do not have a club membership system or membership fees.

• Do you need an ID to register for courses? You may be thinking of a Sailor ID, which is free to create and required for all SSF courses and events. Please refer to Q10 for instructions on how to set one up.

• Looking for a sailing club membership? For club facilities, boat berthage, and other activities, please contact our affiliates directly regarding their membership registration processes and fees.

Q12. Are there discounts for siblings or group sign-ups?

We do not currently offer sibling discounts. However, for group sign-ups, we may consider special rates depending on the number of participants and the program.

Please write to info@singaporesailing.org.sg to enquire.

Q13. Is the training fee different if my child uses their own boat/equipment instead of a squad boat/equipment?

No. Base training fees remain the same regardless of whether a sailor uses a Federation boat or brings their own equipment.

Boat/Equipment Provision by Program Level:

• Beginner & Introductory Programs (All-Inclusive): Boats, wings, and essential equipment are fully provided at no extra cost for:

• Opti Junior / Opti Sailor / Opti Racer

• Basic Sailing Course

• BraveSails (Open) / Wingfoil Beginner 

• Intermediate, Advanced Programs & Squads: Sailors generally use their own equipment. If you need a boat charter for advanced squad training or regattas, please submit a Boat Charter Form, and our team will contact you about availability and rates. 

For wingfoil equipment charter enquiries for squad training, please write to info@singaporesailing.org.sg.

Q14. What is the Independent Sailors Initiative (ISI) and how do I join?

The Independent Sailors Initiative (ISI) supports passionate sailors navigating the Singapore school system. It is designed for students attending MOE schools without an official Sailing Co-Curricular Activity (CCA), and provides dedicated weekday water-time and structured training.

Program Details:

• Schedule: Currently, the Optimist ISI runs on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons during local MOE school terms.

• Flexibility: Sailors can sign up for a full term or on an ad-hoc basis.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Gold Fleet or Silver Fleet sailor studying in a MOE school*

• Top-50 ranking for Silver Fleet sailors

*For sailors enrolled in their school's sailing CCA programme, attendance for official school training sessions is mandatory and should be prioritised.  

To view the latest course schedule, fee structure, or to register your child, please visit ourISI Program & Registration Page.

Q15. How do I get a refund for a course or event, and is there a fee?

Please review ourTerms and Conditions to check your eligibility for a refund. 

If you qualify, please submit an online Refund Form. Please note that an administrative processing fee of $20 may be deducted depending on the circumstances of the refund.

Course Cancellations: If a course is cancelled because sign-ups fall below the minimum participation number, our staff will contact you directly to arrange a full refund or transfer your registration to the next available intake. 

For further assistance, please contact info@singaporesailing.org.sg.