Lion Yachting Academy
L.Y.A. is a training centre providing courses, private boat tuition and tailor made services for all your nautical requirements.
Located in Le Grau du Roi in the south of France, we are committed to excellence and highest standards of customer service.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, we are here to help you achieve your goals.
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Why Lion?
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Our Fleet
At L.Y.A., we take pride in our diverse and well-maintained fleet of powerboats and keelboats. Each vessel is equipped with the latest safety features and maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a safe and enjoyable learning experience for our students.
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Our powerboat courses are delivered on a 3D Xpro tender 535 with a 50hp suzuki engine.
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Keelboat courses are given on a monotype 750 with a 6hp outboard engine.
Seamanship Skills
Master the art of seamanship with our expert instructors. Our courses cover a wide range of essential skills, from navigation and boat handling to safety procedures, preparing you for confident and competent sailing in various conditions.
Private Boat Tuition
Looking for personalized instruction? Our private boat tuition offers flexible options, whether you prefer hourly sessions or full-day training. Tailored to your specific needs, it's the perfect way to enhance your sailing skills.
Training Locations
Explore the stunning training locations offered by L.Y.A. From the beautiful coastlines to picturesque harbors, our training areas provide the perfect backdrop for honing your sailing abilities and gaining valuable experience.
Le Grau du Roi
Meet Our Team
Meet our Principal: Martin
With over 20 years of professional boating experience, Martin is the heart and soul of our RYA Training Centre. Having logged more than 100,000 nautical miles, his adventures span all the world’s oceans, including a round-the-world trip and exhilarating journeys through the polar circle latitudes.
Martin’s expertise isn’t just about miles; it’s about moments. From teaching the youngest beginners in Optimists to coaching professional captains seeking to refine their skills, Martin’s passion for boating shines through. He finds immense joy in helping boaters turn their dreams into reality, whether it’s mastering the basics or embarking on ambitious projects.
Previously, Martin served as the Chief Instructor at an RYA Training Centre in Scotland. He also played a pivotal role in establishing a sailing academy in Bombay. His dedication extends beyond teaching; he has worked with several yachting charities, including OYTS and Ecole de Voile Itinerante 74, and collaborated with various delivery agencies like PYD and Reliance.
In 2013, Martin moved to France, which became his permanent base to continue his career as a professional freelance skipper and instructor. It was here that he conceived GOL Boating, his brainchild, which he had been planning to set up ever since.
His commitment to safety, professionalism, and the spirit of sharing knowledge is unwavering. Martin believes in creating a supportive and inspiring environment where every boater can thrive. Join us and let Martin guide you on your next nautical adventure!
Our hand-picked freelance instructors
At our RYA Training Centre, we occasionally bring in the best quality, experienced, and certified freelance instructors to enhance our training programs. These professionals are carefully selected for their exceptional skills and dedication to boating education. With diverse backgrounds and extensive experience, they bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our courses. Whether it’s sailing, motorboating, or advanced navigation, our freelance instructors ensure that every session is informative, engaging, and tailored to meet the highest standards of safety and professionalism.