Questions & Answers

• Are all meals provided on board?

  Breakfast, lunch, a hot evening meal and plenty of snacks and drinks are all provided on board for the duration of the course. and we encourage students to familiarise themselves with the food store. There are no hidden extras! Upon stepping on board, you will find that the food storage cupboards are full with usual boat ingredients, such as pastas, tinned goods, snacks and beverages. The fridge will store fresh vegetables, fruit and dairy produce. Please do let us know if you have any dietary requirements or needs and we will do our best to accommodate you! Should you wish to eat onshore, then this would be to your own cost.
• Can I smoke onboard?

  Smoking is permitted in the aft top deck but with consideration to the other crew members.
• What do I do if I get seasick ?

  If you start feeling seasick during your sailing course, here are a few steps you can take to help alleviate the symptoms; 1; Get Fresh Air: Step outside and get some fresh air. Try to stay on deck or in the cockpit where the movement is less pronounced. Focusing on the horizon can also help s. stabalize your balance. 2. Stay Hydrated: Drink small sips of water or ginger tea. Dehydration can make sea sickness worse, while ginger can help settle your stomach. 3. Positioning: Try to lie down in a position where you can keep your head as still as possible and avoid sudden movements. Lying with your head elevated can also help. 4. Focus on a Fixed Point: Look at the horizon or a fixed object in the distance to help your brain recalibrate your balance. This reduces the sensory confusion that often contributes to seasickness. 5. Eat Light. Avoid heavy, greasy or spicy foods. Opt for simple, bland snacks like crackers or bread to keep your stomach settled. 6. Acupressure. Some people find relief using acupressure bands that apply gentle pressure to certain points on your wrist to reduce nausea. 7. Medication: If you know that you are prone to seasickness, consider taking over the counter remedies like Dramamine or Sea Bands before the trip or as soon as symptoms appear. Always check with a healthcare professional beforehand. 8. Rest. Sometimes, simply taking a break and closing your eyes for a while can help your body adjust to the motion. If your symptoms persist or worsen, inform your instructor so they can help you take further steps to feel better.

• Despite being a boat owner for many years, I have only ever sailed in non tidal waters. I would now like to go on some longer coastal passages but as this is new to me I would like some tuition.

  There are several suitable options here. A Refresher course, such as a Skill Sharpener course, would offer suitable tuition, a long distance Mile Builder, which would give the candidate support during night sails or an RYA Coastal Skipper mid-week course which would review his skills and introduce advanced tuition. We would also recommend an Own Boat Tuition as many owners feel more confident on their own vessel.
• Do your boats meet safety requirements?

  Yes. As a recognised RYA Training Centre, we are reviewed and inspected annually and successfully meet with the high safety and operating standards of both the RYA and Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA)
• How do I get a radio licence?

  Once you have completed the syllabus, you will be issued with a course completion certificate. Please follow the instructions to make an online payment of £76.00 directly to the RYA. This payment confirms your eligibility to sit the exam at our training centre. The exam must be attended in person and we will invigilate it, manage the administration of your licence application and forward it to the RYA for processing. The licence will be sent directly from the RYA to the student, taking around 4-6 weeks.
• Is there parking available?

  There is a large and free parking facility available in the Pekelharinghaven marina where you can leave you car for the duration of your course. We cannot however accept responsibility for loss or damage to cars or their contents.
• My ambition is to leave my current job and work in the sailing industry. What qualifications do I need

  Although the majority of jobs in the sailing industry will require you to have the Yachtmaster certificate, there are some positions that will accept the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal qualification. Your certificate will need to be commercially endorsed which means you will also need a Sea Survival certificate and attend a medical with your GP. Our Fast Track course may be able to help you achieve your dreams.
• What's included in my course fee?

  All tuition, study aids and literature where applicable, harbour fees, diesel, tourist tax and all food, snacks and drink consumed on board whilst on the course. Students attending the RYA Competent Crew course are presented with the RYA Syllabus and Logbook, together with the RYA Competent Crew skills handbook which assists the student with familiarising themselves with the boat functions. The RYA Syllabus and Logbook is a students personal record of sailing miles attained and logs skills acquired in their syllabus. The log book is also presented to the RYA Day Skipper students upon commencement of the course. There are 3 double cabins, complete with fresh bed linen and pillows. There are no hidden extras with MOSS Sailing. At the successful completion of a certificated course, all students receive an RYA Certificate, which is either handed to them on the day of completion, or posted on.
• Where will I go on my course?

  The course destination will be decided collectively with the crew, taking into consideration the prevailing weather conditions for the day. Our home port, Medemblik, provides an array of sailing possibilities across the Ijsselmeer, Waddenzee, Markermeer, and the North Sea. For those embarking on introductory courses like Start Yachting and Competent Crew, the sailing adventure typically unfolds on the picturesque waters of Ijsselmeer and visiting many harbours along the coasts. As you progress to the Day Skipper course, expect to navigate the tidal waters of Waddenzee, while the Coastal Skipper programme ventures even farther afield, exploring areas such as the expansive North Sea. Yachtmaster levels involve comprehensive training across a diverse range of environments, including harbours, tidal waters, and non-tidal seas, ensuring a well-rounded skill development experience.

• Do courses over 3 weekends have to be successive weekends?

  No. However, we do recommend not to leave any longer than 4 weeks between each weekend
• I already have sailing experience but no certificates, do I have to start at the begining?

  No. As long as you meet the prerequisite requirements for the chosen course you can enrol. We are always happy to discuss the courses with students and advise on which course would be best for them.
• I am a complete novice and want to go sailing with my friends but don't want to get in the way. Which course would help me to understand more?

  For beginners, two courses stand out as ideal options: The RYA Start Yachting Weekend and the RYA Competent Crew course. Both are designed to instil confidence and essential skills, enabling novices to become valuable members of any crew. The Start Yachting Weekend provides a unique introduction for newcomers to the world of sailing. It focuses on familiarising students with the experience of being on a boat for the first time, ensuring they feel at ease and confident. The course combines practical learning with an emphasis on enjoyment, creating a fun and memorable weekend for participants. The Competent Crew course builds on essential foundational knowledge, providing you with the tools and techniques to learn the right way
• What time do courses start?

  For all practical sailing courses, students are welcome to step on board around 10am. There is an introduction, then students are offered a tea or coffee, shown around the boat, attend a safety briefing then discuss the course and potential sailing route for the course. Students stay onboard for the duration of the course, either for a Saturday night on the weekend course till Sunday at 5pm or from a Monday to Thursday night for the mid week course and step off around 5pm on Friday afternoon.

• Do I need to bring my own food onboard?

  We provide all food and drinks on board with NO ADDITIONAL COSTS required. Breakfast, lunch, fruit, snacks, drinks and dinner consumed on board are inclusive in the cost of the course fee.
• What footwear do I need to bring?

  Sailing boots are advisable along with deck shoes or non-marking trainers. A pair of cheap slippers for the public showers is also advisable.

Other Questions

• Are the recommended courses required?

  We highly recommend that students consider enrolling in the recommended courses to enhance their proficiency, comprehension, and skill set. The "Training Ladder" system is strategically crafted to establish foundational skills, progressively incorporating each new achievement to elevate their level of competence.
• Are there washing facilities onboard?

  Yes, there is a dedicated bathroom on board, equipped with both a shower, handbasin and toilet. However, in an effort to preserve fresh water, we recommend using the harbour facilities where hot showers are readily available.
• Can I bring my mobile phone?

  Certainly, you are welcome to bring your mobile phone. Many students choose sailing as a means to get away from their routine or for a holiday. While undergoing instruction, we kindly ask that phones be switched off to prevent distractions, unless there's an expectation of an urgent call. It's important to note that mobile phone coverage extends only up to approximately 10 miles from land which will generally give you coverage on all courses except distance sails and cross channel trips.
• Can we hire sailing jackets and wet weather gear from MOSS?

  There is no fee for renting waterproofs. We provide these items Free of Charge to our students.
• Do I have to become an RYA member before taking a course?

  No, deciding to become a member is entirely a personal choice. However, there are advantages to joining as an RYA member, such as the ability to access personal certificates online.
• Do I need insurance?

  We strongly advise obtaining cancellation and travel insurance. Although our company carries personal liability insurance, it does not extend coverage to personal items. For added peace of mind, we recommend students keep their mobile phones in their cabins during the course to reduce the risk of these items falling overboard.
• Do I need to bring my passport?

  If you're joining us for a Cross Channel trip or Distance Cruise, please remember to bring your passport or ID card. According to Dutch law, it's essential to be able to identify yourself at all times.
• Do I need to do an actual course to come sailing?

  No, you're not limited to just attending certificated courses with MOSS. There are numerous sailing options available, including Mile Builders, Refresher Weekends, Boat Handling sessions, and various trips.
• Do I need to supply a current photo?

  Yes please! If you are attending the RYA Day Skipper or the RYA Coastal Skipper course, you are requested to bring a current passport sized photo with you. Should you successfully complete either of these courses, your photo will be attached to the I.D. certificates and then presented to you either in person or by post.
• Do I receive a certificate after every course?

  Every candidate who successfully completes an RYA course, including RYA Start Yachting, RYA Competent Crew, RYA Day Skipper & RYA Coastal Skipper, will receive an official RYA course completion certificate. Students who attend the RYA Start Yachting and the RYA Competent Crew courses are awarded a paper certificate at the end of their course. For RYA Day Skipper and RYA Coastal Skipper, a photo I.D. pass is provided, registered with MOSS and the RYA database. It's important to note that Specialty courses like Person Overboard (MOB), Skill Sharpeners, Boat Handling and Own Boat Tuition do not provide certificates.
• Do I sleep onboard?

  Yes, for a weekend course you would stay onboard on Saturday night. For a 5 day mid-week course you would sleep on board from Monday till Thursday night. You will be required to bring your own sleeping bag for the duration of the course. We supply a freshly laundered sheet and pillow with clean pillow case.
• How do I prove my previous sailing experience?

  All your previous experience, sea miles and days at sea can be recorded in a logbook, spread sheet or similar. Upon first contact with MOSS and subsequent conversations, we take your personal history as a matter of trust.
• How many students will there be on my course?

  The maximum number of students onboard for any sailing tuition is 5 but often less.
• I have specific dietary requirements, will you be able to cater for me?

  When registering for the course, we will inquire about any specific dietary preferences or requirements and make every effort to accommodate them. For individuals with allergies to fish, nuts, or specific fruits, we will ensure that these ingredients are not on board. We routinely provide catering options for vegetarians, vegans, those with lactose intolerance, etc. Additionally, we have established a tradition of offering a weekly menu with suggestions to assist our students in selecting and preparing their evening meals.
• Is there a minimum age for a course?

  There is no minimum age for the RYA Start Yachting and Competent Crew course. Children under 16 years of age however should be accompanies by a legal parent. The minimum age for the RYA Days Skipper & Coastal Skipper is 16 . The minimum age for the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal & Yachtmaster Offshore is 18.
• Theory or practical. Which course do I take first?

  It is advisable to acquire theoretical knowledge before engaging in practical aspects, and we recommend students familiarise themselves with a basic understanding of theory before commencing a practical course.
• What do I need to bring?

  Ensure you bring warm clothing, including thermal underwear, a hat, scarf, sailing gloves, a waterproof jacket and wet weather gear. A funnel scarf is beneficial for keeping the wind out. It's advisable to wear several thin layers instead of two thick ones, such as a thermal vest then t-shirt or shirt, then a jumper or sweatshirt, then fleece or jacket. In the evenings, Thick socks or slippers are also a good idea to wear in the saloon or your cabin instead of sailing boots If you're a beginner in sailing, there's no necessity to invest in expensive clothing; even an affordable set of thermal long johns and a vest will suffice to keep you warm. Remember to pack, personal toiletries, a towel, a sleeping bag and any medication you are currently needing. For warmer days, please bring a sunhat, sunglasses, sun cream and even swimwear.! Pillows are available in the cabins however, If you are arriving by car, perhaps you may prefer to bring your own pillow. Additionally, you may like to bring a small amount of spending money for onshore trips. Please use soft holdalls only; trolleys are not permitted due to limited storage space.
• What happens if there is an emergency at home whilst I am at sea?

  We will make every effort to safely transport you to the closest port or marina at the earliest opportunity, providing assistance wherever we can.
• What if I lost my certificates?

  Should a candidate who has completed a course with MOSS, loose their certificate, we would recommend that they initially contact our office. We would then provide assistance to obtain a replacement. RYA Day Skipper & Coastal Skipper certificates are registered with the RYA and they will send you a replacement for a small fee.
• Who does the cooking onboard?

  Responsibilities for meal preparation and boat upkeep are shared between the crew and instructor. In the RYA Day Skipper course, nurturing and caring for the crew is an essential aspect of the curriculum. While the "Skipper" ensures snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, we also promote a collaborative approach, encouraging all crew members to participate in preparing tea and coffee for everyone, rather than solely tending to their individual needs.
• Will I be able to plug in my electrical appliances such as phone charger or hair dryer?

  Electrical appliance can be charged on board while sailing, larger appliances such as hairdryers can only be used whilst the boat is in the marina and connected to shore power.
• Will I have to share a cabin?

  Sharing a cabin is a potential arrangement, given that our new yacht features 3 double cabins and 2 additional berths in the spacious saloon. In the case of a solo female student, she will not need to share her cabin unless there is another female student present.
• Will we be in a marina every night?

  We try to be as diverse as possible to give students the opportunity of new harbours and destinations or even mooring at sea, whilst conducting a course.