There is not a single RYA course that will prepare one to sail single handed it is more about being confident in oneself. It may help by doing the RYA level 1 dinghy course and buying a Topper about £200 and to get out on the water as much as possible on your own. It will help you build confidence without having crew on hand to assist and no one elce to rely on but, yourself. I know many highly experiencec sailors who would never sail single handed its not for everyone.
First things first coming away from a pontoon single handed. Set all lines to slip watch what effect the tide and wind are having. I often spit into the water to see where it goes. I would then start the engine and slip the bow line I would then engage either reverse or forward while sliping the stern line.
I would then place a bungee on the tiller and get all the fenders in and tidy up the lines. Find a nice spot to raise the sails go head to wind have a good look out watch what the wind and tide are doing. Then raise the main sail go back to the cockpit and get your bearings as it is likely the boat is on a different course. Repeat fhe above for the jib/genoa.
Dumping the sails is even easier first dump the jib/genoa by puting a bungee over the tiller and go forward to lower the jib/genoa. Then go back to the cockpit have a good look round start the engine and lower the main taking some sail ties with you. Remember is does not have to be tidy just secure. Come back to the cock pit and prepare the lines for mooring. A center cleat does help a lot as does the wind/tide pushing you onto a pontoon. Failing that aim the bow to the pontoon and turn away before she touches secure the stern line and quickly secure the bow line.
Just remember that even with a strong tide a boat will not go that far while you leave the cockpit for a couple of minutes just make sute you havechad a good look out.
Tips for single handed sailors
1. Clip in when its dark or offshore
2. Allways carry a a waterproof handheld radio
3. Allways wear a lifejacket.
4. Allways imform someone of your eta
5. Tiller pilots are very handy
6. A cockpit bag with food/drinks
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