We Love Messing About on Boats!
At First Class Sailing, we want to share our passion by teaching you how to sail safely and be self-sufficient on the water. Our goal is for you to experience the same sense of enjoyment, relaxation, satisfaction, excitement, and adventure that we feel when messing about on boats.
First Class Sailing was established in London in 2000 by the late Saul Masson. Today, the company is owned by Principal Charlie Tulloch, who continues to uphold the original vision and values.
We operate from various locations, including Shamrock Quay in Southampton on the South Coast and several spots in Central London.
London
Southampton
Online
Our Team
Behind every successful sailing adventure lies a passionate team dedicated to making your experience exceptional. Our in-house team at Shamrock Quay, Southampton, is complemented by friendly, knowledgeable instructors, captains, and crew.
Jake
Vice Principal / Chief Instructor
Jake has spent over 10 years in the sailing industry. It all started prior to that when he undertook his Day Skipper Course, purchased himself a 25ft yacht and had his father come and crew for him as a teenager. Since those early days he's clocked up over 130,000nm, instructed over 150 RYA courses, won the odd notable race and is a RYA Instructor Trainer/Examiner.
Charlie
Principal
Charlie is an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Instructor. His Dad taught him to sail in a Drascombe Dabber on the River Dart. Before First Class Sailing Charlie taught people to sail at several Solent-based sailing schools, worked as a delivery skipper all around the world, and did a spell on container ships. Charlie’s favourite places sail are the San Blas islands and the UK's south coast.
Sam
Operations Manager
Sam is our operations manager predominately looking after our vessel operations and organising our skippers. Sam has a background in banking and education so runs a tight ship. She comes from a sailing focussed family and you’ll often see her around the Solent at the weekends zipping around in their rib. Bella is also a very much-loved member of the team!
Charlie
Principal
Sam
Operations Manager
Becky
Sales Advisor
Bev
Accounts and Admin
Anne
Certification and Fixing Boats
Callum
Skipper and Bosun
Jake
Vice Principal / Chief Instructor
Our Core Values
At First Class Sailing, our values are the driving force behind everything we do. They shape our approach to teaching, customer service, and the overall sailing experience we provide.
Caring
We genuinely care about your experience, from the moment you first contact us to the day you receive your certificate. Our friendly team are dedicated to delivering exceptional customer service, and aim to build lasting relationships based on trust and satisfaction.
Safety First
Your safety is paramount. We adhere to the strictest safety standards and regularly update our equipment to guarantee a secure environment. Our commitment to safety extends from the classroom to the open water.
Training Excellence
We strive to provide the highest quality sailing training, combining theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on experience. Our instructors are experienced professionals dedicated to ensuring you develop the skills and confidence necessary for a lifetime of successful sailing.
Exceptional On-Board Experience
We understand that a comfortable and enjoyable environment is essential for learning and relaxation. We provide top-notch facilities, including well-maintained yachts and delicious on-board food, creating an atmosphere that fosters camaraderie and memorable experiences.
Instructor-To-Crew Ratio
Our commitment to more personalised training sets us apart. With a smaller instructor-to-crew ratio compared to other companies, our clients receive more attention and guidance, maximising their learning experience.
Passion
From the office team to all our instructors and skippers, our love for sailing is at the heart of what we do. Everyone you email, speak to on the phone or meet wants you to experience the best adventure, thrill, and satisfaction that comes with sailing. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!
The First Class Sailing ‘Triple S’ Guarantee
We pride ourselves on the quality of our courses and personal approach. That means:
- Service: Unlimited help, support, and advice FOREVER!
- Satisfaction: We guarantee the best sailing experience possible
- Success: If you don't pass a course, retake it (for free) until you do
Above all, we put your needs and enjoyment first. You can choose First Class Sailing confident you’re making an excellent decision
The First Class Sailing ‘Triple S’ Guarantee
