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Dubai set to emerge as a leading sailing destination

DUBAI — Dubai could be the next happening sailing destination in the world with interest in this adventure sport picking up steadily and even a Royal Yachting Assocation certificate course on the cards.

Budding yachtsmen and women in the Middle East no longer have to leave home to obtain their Royal Yachting Association (RYA) sailing certifications. Bluesail has been certified by the RYA to teach theory and practical courses up to the top grade of RYA-MCA Yachtmaster Ocean. The courses for beginners start in September soon after brand new yachts arrive.

The RYA Yachtmaster exam is at the pinnacle of the most successful sail and motor cruising scheme in the world. Every year, thousands of beginners and experienced yachtsmen take advantage of the courses within the scheme to improve their practical and shore based ability.

Bluesail will offer courses for complete novices all the way through to the most advanced RYA-MCA Yachtmaster Ocean for commercial licensing to skipper vessels up to 3000 tonnes .

Bluesail's Director of Sailing and Chief Instructor, Mark Devitt, who is currently skippering a yacht in the Mauritius to Durban Ocean Race, said "We are delighted to be able to offer this level of sail training in Dubai. Many of our local clients in the past have had to go overseas for extended periods to obtain this level of certification, now they will be able to obtain their international qualifications right here in Dubai.

Bluesail Director & Principal, Greg Boyle, himself a RYA-MCA Yachtmaster, said: "This is a significant development for Dubai, the Gulf and Bluesail. In addition to increasing the skills and knowledge of our local sailors, we anticipate many of our clients will now come to Dubai from around the world to learn their trade in the warm, safe waters of the Gulf and Indian Ocean."

• UAE