Save the date for the Cruising Association's Cruising Skills Week | 23–28 March 2026
by The Cruising Association 12 Feb 17:18 UTC
23-28 March 2026
Cruising Skills Week - rigging maintenance © The Cruising Association
The Cruising Association (CA) will host Cruising Skills Week, 23-28 March 2026, offering a packed programme of free online evening sessions during the week, culminating in a hybrid in-person and online all-day Go Affordable Boating Seminar on Saturday at CA House, London.
Designed for those new to cruising as well as anyone looking to build confidence and knowledge, Cruising Skills Week brings together expert speakers, practical advice and first-hand experience to help you get afloat.
Robin Baron, President of the CA, explains the focus of the week, saying, "Cruising Skills Week is about giving sailors the confidence to get out there and do it. Whether you're buying your first boat, planning a passage, or simply wanting to sharpen your skills, you'll find practical advice, honest experience and the sort of wisdom that makes all the difference. Take part, ask questions, and be prepared for your next step afloat."
Open to both non-members and members, Cruising Skills Week is an opportunity to experience the depth of expertise and supportive community the CA is known for. If you are considering joining the CA, it offers a clear introduction to how membership can support your cruising ambitions - whether under sail or power - at every stage of your journey.
All attendees registered for any Cruising Skills Week event will receive a digital goody bag packed with information and resources.
Free Evening Zoom Talks | 23-27 March 2026
From Monday to Friday, 23-27 March, a series of free, live Zoom will run each evening, covering everything from buying your first boat and cruising for beginners, to safety at sea, preparation for coastal cruising and much more. Each talk will last around 40 minutes and conclude with a 15-minute live Q&A. Simply pre-register and tune-in on the night:
Monday 23 March: The Boat Buyer's Survival Guide
- 1900-1955 hrs / Buying your first boat: Pitfalls and Top Tips
- 2000-2100 hrs / Boat Insurance: From Purchase to Policy - Getting It Right
Tuesday 24 March: Let's Go Cruising
- 1900-1955 hrs / Cruising for Beginners: Preparing Yourself and Your Boat
- 2000-2100 hrs / Rigging: Check it, Tune it, Trust it
Wednesday 25 March: Confessions of a Cruising Correspondent
- 1900-2100 hrs / Renowned author and journalist Dick Durham will share a lifetime of sailing stories, from major races and marine journalism to his affection for the Thames Estuary delivered with insight and humour.
Thursday 26 March: Be Prepared, Stay Safe
- 1900-1955 hrs / Safety and Skills: Emergency Procedures and Man Overboard
- 2000-2100 hrs / Top Tips from the RNLI
Friday 27 March: From Inland Adventures to Coastal Confidence
- 1900-1955 hrs / Cruising Routes on the European Inland Waterways: Preparation, Routes and Planning
- 2000-2100 hrs / Insights from the UK Harbour Masters Association: What Cruisers Need to Know
Go Affordable Boating Seminar: 1000-1700 hrs, Saturday 28 March 2026
Cruising Skills Week concludes with a full-day hybrid Go Affordable Boating Seminar focused on affordable ways to get afloat. Hosted by sailor, author and raconteur Tom Cunliffe, the day will explore practical and budget-friendly approaches to boating. Tickets are £10 online | £28 in person (at CA House, London, including lunch and refreshments).
Talks will include owning a pre-loved boat, getting afloat without owning a boat, maintenance of your boat, engine and rigging, and a range of boating know-how. Alongside the talks, attendees can take part in Boat Chat Cafés, offering the chance to discuss key topics with CA experts, ask questions, and gain tailored advice.
Video presentations will be hosted by the Practical Boat Owner editorial team, sharing insights on boating hacks and reader tips, and long-term cruiser and author Lu Heikell, on sailing on a shoestring budget.
The day will conclude at approximately 1700 hours, after which the CA bar and restaurant will be open for those who wish to stay, network and continue the conversation.
With expert speakers, practical advice and networking, this is a great opportunity to acquire knowledge, gain confidence, and discover numerous ways to reduce the cost of getting afloat.
Find out more and book your place here
Discover the CA
Throughout the week, you will also learn how the CA supports the cruising community, with information on membership benefits, resources and year-round activities.
Use CSW20, the unique Cruising Skills Week 20% off discount code, to join the Cruising Association, reducing Full Membership (one member, or two members at the same address) to £137.60* instead of £172.
*First year of membership, when paying by Direct Debit - for one or two members at the same address.
Download the Cruising Skills Week poster here (PDF).