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DofE Open Gold Expedition Programme
DofE Sailing Expedition – DofE Open Gold Sailing Expedition
If you want to go sailing for your expedition but you don’t have a team, then you can join one or our DofE Open Sailing Expeditions. Join other like minded individuals, to undertake your training, practise and assessed expeditions from our UK base.
Sailing From South Coast UK – 10 days programme including your presentation
- Two days – Yacht Familiarisation and Sail Skills – RYA Start
Yachting - Three days – Practice DofE Sailing Expedition
- Five days – Assessed DofE Sailing Expedition – Hamble – Cross
Channel or UK South Coast
As part of your DofE programme you will be enrolled in the online Inter-active Essential Navigation and Seamanship online course (includes chart, plotting instruments and online support.)
The programme costs from £1,450 per person. The package can be taken in one block of time, over 10 days during the summer. Alternatively, it can be split into 2 phases; the training and practise expedition together over 5 days (Easter or Summer half term), followed by the 5-day assessed expedition over the summer. If splitting the Programme in to 2 phases, it is not possible to mix and match dates – you will need to sail with the same participants for both the practise and assessed expeditions.
DofE requirements are that you complete your practice expedition in the UK, however weather permitting and subject to the strength of the crew it may be possible to go over to France for the assessed expedition.
Prices include food, accommodation, mooring fees, fuel, wet weather gear and VAT where appropriate.
2026 Dates
10 Day Expeditions:
18 – 27 July 2026 – FULL
22 – 31 August 2026 – FULL
2027 Dates
Split Expeditions:
29 March – 02 April + 28 July – 01 August 2027
24 – 28 May + 09 – 13 August 2027
10 Day Expeditions:
03 – 12 July 2027
17 – 26 July 2027
21 – 30 August 2027
Your expedition will have an aim and your findings and the information that you record during your sailing expedition will form the basis of your final expedition presentation.
From: £1,450
Additional Information
Completing a sailing expedition really is a rewarding experience, but don’t take our word for it!
“I applied to the British Offshore Sailing School for a place to complete my Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) expedition. From the 5th to the 9th of August, I experienced the journey of a lifetime. In my application, I expressed my hope that this adventure would challenge me and teach me new skills—and it exceeded all my expectations. I left feeling stronger, more independent, and proud of how much I had grown.
Not only did I learn new skills, but I also had the opportunity to meet an incredible group of people. We worked together as a team, supporting each other through every task. It was inspiring to see how quickly we built trust and encouraged each other to take on new responsibilities, especially when things got challenging. The camaraderie we developed made the experience even more meaningful.
Our leader, Andy, was exceptional. His teaching style was clear, patient, and encouraging, which helped me make the most of every moment. He constantly motivated me to take on more responsibilities and embrace new challenges. Thanks to his guidance, I gained confidence in my abilities and truly maximised my experience.
One of the highlights was the night sailing, where everything around us felt beautifully serene and awe-inspiring.
I would absolutely recommend this expedition to anyone looking for a challenge, especially those who haven’t considered sailing before—it’s definitely worth exploring. Stepping out of my comfort zone made this one of the best weeks of my life, and I wholeheartedly encourage others to take that leap too. I would just like to say a big thank you for this experience!”
Elliana – August 2024 Expedition
Everything You Need Before You Sail
Get your joining pack for practical details, what to bring, and what to expect on your course.
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DofE Residential – RYA Competent Crew Course
Five day liveaboard sailing course for teenagers aged 14–17, suitable for the residential section of the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Gain the RYA Competent…
FAQs
Find out answers to frequently asked questions
No previous sailing experience is needed. The RYA Competent Crew course is designed for complete beginners, and your instructor will guide you through everything step by step. By the end of the course, you should feel confident helping to sail the yacht, handling ropes, steering and taking part in everyday life on board. All you need to bring is a willingness to learn and get involved. visit our Training or Learn to Sail page for skill‑level requirements.
We recommend comfortable clothing, non‑slip shoes, sunscreen, and any personal items you may need. A full checklist is available on our Preparation page.
Our cancellation and refund terms are outlined on the Terms & Conditions page. If you have questions about rescheduling, our Contact page is the best place to get quick assistance.
We provide a range of sailing experiences including private charters, training, and corporate events.
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