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New dates coming soon
Sailing course with Algarve Cruising Center
Set sail on an unforgettable adventure with our Bareboat Skipper Course Combo Sailing Expedition to Spain. This immersive experience blends hands-on skipper training with the thrill of a real coastal voyage. Build confidence as you navigate stunning waters, master essential sailing techniques, and take command under expert guidance. From lively marinas to hidden coves, every mile is both a lesson and a discovery. Perfect for aspiring skippers ready to turn knowledge into real-world skill—while exploring the beauty of the Portuguese and Spanish coastline.
Why We Love This Sailing Course
A truly authentic way to learn to sail whilst exploring with a like-minded crew.
Located in the heart of Portugal’s Algarve, Olhão is a vibrant coastal town known for its authentic charm, bustling marina, and gateway access to the stunning Ria Formosa islands. With its rich maritime heritage, fresh seafood markets, and calm, sheltered waters, it’s the perfect starting point for a sailing adventure. From here, set course toward Spain while enjoying ideal sailing conditions and breathtaking coastal scenery.
El Rompido, on Spain’s Costa de la Luz, is a picturesque fishing village known for its unspoiled beaches, golden sand dunes, and laid-back atmosphere. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Río Piedras, it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and traditional charm. Its sheltered waters and scenic coastline make it an ideal stop on a sailing journey, inviting you to relax, explore, and experience authentic Andalusian coastal life.
Mazagón, on Spain’s Costa de la Luz, is a quiet seaside village offering a peaceful contrast to busier ports. Surrounded by natural parks and long stretches of unspoiled coastline, it provides a calm and scenic stop along the route. At the same time, its proximity to active shipping lanes presents valuable training opportunities—allowing you to practice using AIS systems, apply IALA buoyage, and sharpen your understanding of the Rules of the Road in real navigation conditions.
4.4/5•7 ReviewsWe love sailing and we want you to love sailing too! Our school is strategically located in beautiful Olhão, just 10 minutes away from Faro International Airport, making it a perfect location to learn to sail while enjoying the Algarve region. You can combine your sailing course with a sailing expedition. Please check our Packages and Sailing Expeditions
They strike a great balance between learning and actually enjoying your time on the water. Small groups, hands-on coaching and experienced instructors mean you come away sharper, without it ever feeling like a grind.
Beginner
No sailing experience required. Perfect for newcomers.
Intermediate
Some sailing experience helpful. Comfortable on the water.
Advanced
Significant sailing experience required. Challenging conditions.
Active Crew Member
Full participation in all sailing activities.
Optional Involvement
Participate as much or as little as you like.
Passenger
Sit back and enjoy the ride.
Yes
Sharing the cooking & washing up
16
This sailing expedition offers a hands-on, immersive learning experience designed to build real confidence at sea. Guests can expect a balance of practical skipper training and relaxed coastal cruising, with plenty of time at the helm navigating between Portugal and Spain. You’ll actively participate in passage planning, sail handling, watchkeeping, and navigation—by day and night—while gaining experience in real conditions, including marina manoeuvres and traffic awareness. Along the way, there’s also time to enjoy the journey: swimming stops, charming harbours, and the unique atmosphere of each coastal destination. It’s a rewarding mix of skill-building, adventure, and exploration.
No optional extras
16-22°C
Mild temperatures, moderate winds. Azores high builds.
23-28°C
Warm and sunny with reliable Nortada winds.
19-24°C
Pleasant sailing conditions. Warm seas.
12-17°C
Cool with Atlantic weather systems. Algarve milder.
16-22°C
Mild temperatures, moderate winds. Azores high builds.
23-28°C
Warm and sunny with reliable Nortada winds.
19-24°C
Pleasant sailing conditions. Warm seas.
12-17°C
Cool with Atlantic weather systems. Algarve milder.
Tried and tested sailing experiences, from our pick of the world's best operators
EXPERT-LED SAILING ADVENTURES
All our trips are led by qualified skippers and sailing instructors
TRIED & TRUSTED
We only work with the most reputable sailing operators and yacht providers
SOLO & GROUP-FRIENDLY SAILING
Perfect for solo sailors looking to join a crew or groups wanting to charter
WORLD-CLASS CUSTOMER SUPPORT
Our team is on-hand 24/7 to help you before, during and after your adventure