Silver and Bronze Level

Designed primarily for Irish Transition Year students, while also welcoming sailors from around the world, the SailCoach TY Programme gives young sailors the opportunity to spend three unforgettable weeks at our Valencia SailBase, combining high-quality race training with adventure, new friendships and life in an international sailing community.

For over 15 years, we’ve welcomed motivated young sailors from Ireland and overseas. Whether they’re preparing for the next stage of their sailing or simply looking for a unique Transition Year experience, the programme helps them improve their sailing, build confidence and independence, and enjoy life away from home in a safe and supportive environment.

More than just sailing

The SailCoach TY Programme is about much more than improving your sailing. Over three weeks, students experience the lifestyle of a high-performance athlete while developing the confidence, independence and resilience that will benefit them long after they leave Valencia.

Each day combines on-water coaching with physical preparation, video analysis and goal setting, helping sailors develop positive habits both on and off the water. Living and training alongside sailors from different countries also encourages teamwork, responsibility and lasting friendships.

What to expect

Every day is designed to balance quality coaching with physical preparation, recovery and time to enjoy life in Valencia. Training is tailored to the weather conditions, allowing coaches to make the most of the excellent sailing while ensuring sailors continue to progress throughout the programme.

Alongside time on the water, students take part in fitness sessions, video analysis, debriefs, and boat preparation and maintenance. There is also plenty of time to relax, explore Valencia, and enjoy team-building activities such as paintball, escape rooms, go-karting and the occasional team barbecue, while spending time with fellow sailors. Together, these experiences create memories and friendships that last long after the programme has finished.

Why Valencia?

Valencia is one of Europe’s leading tourist and sailing destinations and the ideal place to spend a TY sailing experience. Home to world-class events and a thriving sailing community, it offers reliable sea breezes, warm weather, and excellent training throughout the year.

Our SailBase is located beside the Royal Club Náutico de Valencia, just a short walk from the beach, local cafés and the accommodation. Students enjoy the perfect balance of structured training and free time in a safe, welcoming environment.

Away from the water, Valencia has plenty to offer. Whether exploring the city’s historic centre, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying an evening with teammates, every day brings new experiences that make the programme about much more than sailing.

Accommodation and Safety

Students stay in comfortable, modern hostel style accommodation in the seaside village of Pinedo, just a short walk from our Valencia SailBase, the beach and local amenities. Living together in a traditional Spanish village is an important part of the experience, helping students develop independence while remaining in a safe and supportive environment.

The programme is fully supervised by the SailCoach team, with clear daily routines that balance training, meals, relaxation and recovery. Throughout their stay, students are encouraged to take responsibility for themselves while knowing that experienced coaches and staff are always on hand to provide guidance and support.

With the beach, cafés, supermarkets and our SailBase all within walking distance, students quickly settle into a relaxed daily routine while enjoying a genuine taste of Mediterranean life.

Who is the programme for?

The SailCoach TY Programme is designed for motivated sailors aged 15 to 17 who want to make the most of their Transition Year. Whether you’re already competing at club or national level, preparing to move into a new class, or simply looking to improve your racing, the programme provides the coaching, support and environment to help you take the next step.

Sailors regularly join us from Optimist, Topper, ILCA, 420 and other youth classes, creating a diverse, supportive and enjoyable training environment.

2026/27 Programme Dates

2 November – 21 November 2026 (Valencia)
1 December – 12 December 2026 (Malta)
17 January – 5 February 2027 (Valencia)
11 April – 30 April 2027 (Valencia)

What’s Included?

The programme includes:

• Race training/coaching

• Boat charter

• Hostel style accommodation

• Airport transfers

• Fitness sessions

• Video analysis and daily debriefs

• Evening meals

• Team building activities

• Full supervision by the SailCoach coaching team

Ready for an unforgettable Transition Year experience?

We’d be delighted to answer any questions and help you decide whether the SailCoach TY Programme is the right fit. Please ask for the detailed information sheet, and we'll take it from there...