Unplugged and undersail: How Tighnabruaich Sailing School can help kids swap screens for adventure.

In today’s tech-driven world, it’s more important than ever to give children the chance to explore the outdoors! Screens and devices are an ever-present part of daily life, offering endless entertainment and connection, but too much time online can mean missed opportunities for real-world adventure, social interaction, and physical activity.

At Tighnabruaich Sailing School, we believe that sailing offers the perfect balance. A chance for young people to unplug, engage with nature, and develop skills that go far beyond the boat. On the water, children learn to read the wind and waves, make quick decisions, work as part of a team, and challenge themselves physically and mentally. Unawares, they are beginning to appreciate and respect the environment.

It’s not just about sailing. It’s about giving kids the freedom to move, explore, and connect with the outdoors in a way that screens simply can’t replicate. The focus, the excitement, and the sense of achievement on the water create a healthy alternative to digital life, and for many, it’s the spark that ignites a lifelong love of adventure and the natural world.

Beyond the physical skills, sailing nurtures confidence, resilience, and problem-solving. Each of our sessions presents small challenges, handling the sails, navigating a course, or responding to a sudden gust of wind in the bay, giving children a real sense of accomplishment. These lessons extend far beyond the boat: young sailors return to the shore with improved focus, independence, and teamwork, skills that benefit school, friendships, and everyday life.

Simply put, on a boat, phones are simply not invited, they’d get wet, lost, or overboard before you know it! And that’s exactly the point: in this environment, children naturally separate from their devices. They quickly realise they don’t need them, and often return from the water happier, more focused, and fully engaged in the moment. There are few activities where kids accept this healthy break from screens.

At Tighnabruaich Sailing School, our 5 day youth courses (ages 8–18) based at Carry Farm, are designed to balance fun, skill-building, and adventure. Experienced instructors provide guidance every step of the way, ensuring that beginners and returning sailors alike feel challenged, supported, and inspired. From mastering the basics of boat handling to learning teamwork and safety, every child leaves with skills, memories, and confidence that last a lifetime.

With limited places available for summer 2026, now is the perfect time to give your child a summer away from screens, and on the water. Let them discover the thrill of sailing, the joy of fresh air, and the freedom of adventure. It’s more than a course; it’s a catalyst for a lifelong love of the outdoors.

📅 Book your child’s place today: tssargyll.co.uk/youth