Round the world racer launches new sailing school in Largs

by Calum Corral and originally printed in the Largs and Millport newspaper.

A FORMER Cumbrae National Watersports Centre instructor who has circumnavigated the world is launching a new sailing school at Largs Yacht Haven.

Daniel Smith is looking to pass on his decades of sailing experience through the new operation called ‘Sailing InTuition’.

The West Kilbride man is one of Scotland’s most successful offshore sailors and round-the-world skippers.

The sailing school will open on 15 July and cater for groups using social distancing practices.

As well as leading a team of novice sailors to second place in the 40,000 mile Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, Daniel served the Scottish National Watersports Centre in Cumbrae as instructor for many years.

Daniel said: “The round the globe race was amazing experience.

“We left from London and headed for South America, then onwards to South Africa, Vietnam, Australia, Chile, Seattle, New York, Northern Ireland and then back to London.

“We saw lots of ocean, really cool wildlife from sharks, whales and albatrosses and even had to cope with hurricane force winds – and some enormous waves.

“It was challenging as all hands were on deck, keeping the boat together, and making sure it didn’t get broken up.”

Daniel Smith in Southern ocean
Daniel in the Southern Ocean

It is Daniel’s ocean of knowledge which has prompted him to launch Sailing InTuition, a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) accredited school.

He said: “Hopefully things will get moving in the next few months while we still have some summer left.

“Initially family groups doing day sailing is a pretty safe way for the public to get a break.”

Over the past 20 years Daniel has taught sailing at all levels from beginners, experts or racers.

The 36-year-old explained: “I’ll be running a full range of RYA courses, but I’ll also be running several trips for those who would just like to enjoy being afloat and want to explore our beautiful coastline.”

Customers will sail on a Salona 40, which has gone through a winter refit including new sails and rigging.

Daniel is a former Scottish Schools National Champion who has gone on to be a qualified yacht master, wind surfing and power boat instructor.

He added: “I will be offering a day’s sailing in the bay leaving from our base at Largs Yacht Haven in the morning and returning in the evening for families from the same household in the near future hopefully.

“People may be missing out on a holiday this year but there is an opportunity to get out in the water and enjoy the breathtaking scenery on the Clyde while learning new sailing skills.”

Sailing InTuition St Kilda Challenge
Offshore sailing and racing in Scotland.