With the sea within easy reach, moderate wind and calm water, the UAE is a great place to learn to sail. And as much as we love Dubai, it is refreshing to get out of town for a weekend now and again. RAK Sailing Academy is a 1.5 hour drive north of Dubai, in beautiful surroundings and the backdrop of the Hajar Mountains. Unlike other sailing clubs, which are for members only, RAK Sailing Academy is a commercial club, open to all, and they place special importance on engaging local people with the sport. We visited to experience some time on the water in a state-of-the-art Lutra 30 racing boat. But you don't have to take lessons; you can also choose to enjoy a fishing trip or sunset or day cruise while the crew sail the boat for you.
 
What do you need? Shorts and t-shirt, cap to protect you from the sun, sunblock and either bare feet, sailing shoes or trainers. Previous knowledge of sailing is not essential!
 
Who goes? Anyone with an interest in learning how to sail from scratch, or those with experience who want to add to their cruising or racing skills. The Academy has taught children as young as 6 years old; adults in their 60s; and everyone inbetween. Or, if you just want to relax and enjoy being on the water – that’s fine too!
 
RAK Sailing Academy was founded by round-the-world sailor and expert sailing instructor Enrico Malingri. He’s sailed through hurricanes, completed numerous ocean passages, and taught some of the world’s most accomplished sailors. A naturally gifted sailor, he says: “No one in my family ever had sailing lessons. We can all ski, windsurf, sail etc. and we just taught ourselves.”
 
Enrico’s instructors at the academy are also all very experienced, and deliver their lessons in a friendly and easy-to-understand manner. We were a mix of novice and more experienced sailors on the boat, and yet there was always a task for everyone, and a chance to learn as well as to relax and enjoy the peaceful sound of the water.
 
What happens? You can choose between a Laser dinghy, or a larger keelboat. Before heading out, you’ll be given a briefing and then you’ll cast off into the sheltered bay with a qualified instructor on board with you. Step-by-step you’ll learn how to handle the boat and how to be in control. The bay is a unique feature of the coastline, perfect for beginners to learn in safety.
 
If you’re more experienced, you can leave the bay and head out into open water. The instructor will ensure that the conditions suit your ability. As RAK is not as developed as Dubai, the water is full of wildlife – you’ll most probably see turtles and if you’re really lucky, dolphins and even a young whale shark that has previously been spotted in the area. The day ends with a beautiful sunset over the sea.
 
The marina is well-equipped with showers and a bar/restaurant with tasty food at good prices. Sailing is not only about the skills you learn out on the water, it’s also a great way to nurture camaraderie and teamwork between crew, and most sailors spend time socialising after a sail, so you’ll find a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
 
In the future the academy is looking at acquiring some larger boats and offering the opportunity to sail from RAK to Musandam and Oman – passing beautiful, unspoiled coastline. This route allows more experienced sailors to test their skills and gain long-passage experience.
 
How much of my life will this take up? The academy is very flexible and you can sign up for just one lesson, or a series of 12 lessons. You can visit just at weekends, or sail over a few consecutive days. Or for pleasure cruising, you can opt for a sunset sail, or a half day cruise, as well as fishing trips.
 
How much does it cost? It depends on the size of the boat and the number of lessons, but the more you book, the better the value. For one three-hour dinghy lesson, prices start at Dhs.285, or you can buy a package of 12 lessons for Dhs.2,400. See Rak Sailing Academy’s website for more details. Prices are very competitive. If you can already sail you can rent a Laser dinghy for Dhs.140 for 90 minutes, as well as other boats (prices vary).
 
In Short: A unique opportunity to combine sailing lessons, or a relaxing cruise, with a refreshing out-of-town break, which is suitable for all the family.
 
To make a reservation or for more information see raksailingacademy.com

For more information on watersports in Dubai, click here.