Malta's crystal-clear waters, gentle winds, and rich maritime heritage make it an ideal destination for families seeking to explore sailing together. With a range of sailing schools designed to accommodate both children and parents, Malta offers tailored programs that ensure safety, fun, and skill-building for all. This guide highlights top options for family-friendly sailing education, including joint certification opportunities that let parents and kids learn side by side.
Top Sailing Schools in Malta for Families
1. Blue Sea Sailing School
Child-Friendly Courses
Blue Sea specializes in courses for children aged 8-16, introducing them to sailing fundamentals through interactive games and hands-on practice. Young learners start with basic boat handling, safety protocols, and teamwork exercises before progressing to steering small dinghies independently.
Joint Certification Options
Families can opt for combined RYA Start Yachting certification courses (ages 12+), allowing parents and teens to earn a recognized credential together. The 5-day program covers sailing in sheltered waters, with instructors adapting lessons to mixed-age groups.
Safety and Equipment
The school provides child-sized life jackets, helmets, and drysuits. All lessons occur in calm, shallow bays with lifeguard support on standby.
Unique Features
Weekly family sailing days let participants practice skills in a relaxed setting, often ending with a beach picnic or snorkeling break.
2. Mediterranean Sailing Academy (MSA)
Tailored Youth Programs
MSA offers three tiers for children: Sea Sprouts (ages 5-7) focuses on water confidence through play, Junior Skipper (ages 8-12) teaches sailing basics on stable catamarans, and Teen Adventurers (ages 13-17) tackle advanced techniques like night sailing.
Shared Learning Experiences
Parents can join the Family Learn & Cruise package, which blends daytime lessons with overnight sailing trips. Both groups earn RYA Level 1 and 2 certifications, enabling them to charter boats independently.
Accessibility
Courses are available in English, Italian, and German, with flexible schedules to accommodate varying family timelines.
Eco-Friendly Focus
MSA integrates lessons on marine conservation into its curriculum, encouraging kids to appreciate Malta's coastal ecosystems.
3. Gozzo Sailing School
Cultural Integration
This school combines sailing instruction with Maltese traditions, teaching kids to sail traditional gozzo boats-iconic wooden vessels-alongside modern yachts. Cultural workshops include fishing net repairs and Mediterranean folklore stories.
Family Certifications
Their Sailing Together program (ages 10+) certifies families in RYA Competent Crew standards, preparing them for short coastal voyages. Lessons emphasize crew roles and communication.
Inclusive Pricing
Program fees include equipment rental, instructor fees, and a family sailing logbook to track progress.
Tips for Choosing a Program
Age Appropriateness: Verify if the school separates children into age-specific groups for optimal learning.
Certification Pathways: Confirm if certifications (e.g., RYA, ASA) are internationally recognized and age-permitting.
Group Sizes: Prioritize schools with a 4:1 student-instructor ratio for personalized attention.
Language Options: Ensure staff can communicate in your preferred language.
Flexibility: Look for schools offering make-up sessions or seasonal discounts for extended stays.
Benefits of Family Sailing Courses
Bonding: Collaborating on tasks like hoisting sails strengthens family communication.
Confidence Building: Children gain independence while mastering skills in a supportive environment.
Lifelong Skills: Participants learn navigation, weather reading, and problem-solving applicable beyond sailing.
Scenic Exploration: Families access hidden coves, historic forts, and uninhabited islets reachable only by boat.
Conclusion
Malta's sailing schools blend education with adventure, making it easy for families to embark on a shared journey of discovery. Whether aiming for certification or casual fun, parents and children can build lasting memories while embracing the island's maritime culture. With options tailored to diverse age groups and experience levels, the gentle waves of the Mediterranean await every aspiring sailor in the family.