FANCY sailing across the English Channel but lack the experience?

Then book yourself - and your yacht - into this year's Royal Yachting Association Sail Cruise, which takes place from June 15-21.

This is the perfect opportunity for sailors of all ages and experience to broaden their sailing horizons. It is particularly appealing for crews embarking on their first Channel crossing, providing the reassurance of sailing with other more experienced crews - and hopefully giving enthusiasts the confidence to tackle the journey again in the future.

The cruise, sponsored by Hamble School of Yachting in association with Yachting Monthly magazine,  starts from Portsmouth Harbour and calls in at Cherbourg, Guernsey and Alderney, with crews given the opportunity to plan their own routes and tackle the crossing at their own pace.

Carol Paddison, RYA Cruising Officer, says: "The Sail Cruise, which is now in its sixth year, offers you the opportunity to cross the channel with like-minded cruisers, under the guidance of an experienced RYA Instructor.

"It has a great social side, too, with the chance to get together in the evening and share experiences, as well as soaking up some amazing scenery. There's also plenty of opportunity for sightseeing in each of the fabulous locations scheduled into the itinerary."

The RYA Sail Cruise is open to sailing yachts from 8-12 metres, although vessels outside these sizes may be accepted on an individual basis.  For more information, log on to http://www.rya.org.uk, and to book your place email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it   or phone 0845 345 0370.

There are a limited number of places available, and applications are generally considered on a first-come-first-served basis. However, priority may to given to people who have not taken part in an RYA Sail Cruise before or to those who will learn most from participating.