Historic Hythe building to house new RYA training centre this spring 

Associated Marine Training is opening a dedicated RYA shore-based school in Hythe, Southampton, this April, expanding access to accredited maritime education along a busy stretch of the Solent. 

The new centre, located in a newly refurbished historic building on St John’s Street, is due to welcome its first students in the second week of April. 

According to the training company, it will be the only dedicated RYA shore-based training facility between Lymington and Southampton – a stretch of UK coastline with a significant recreational and professional boating community but limited classroom training options.

The project has resulted from a collaboration between Associated Marine Training and the building’s landlord, who have transformed the space into a purpose-built marine education facility. 

Upon launch, the courses offered will be RYA Day Skipper, RYA Yachtmaster Theory, RYA Radar, RYA First Aid, and RYA VHF Marine Radio (SRC).

Future courses are planned, with the centre expected to include workshop-based skills training, engine maintenance training, and other practical modules for recreational and commercial maritime professionals.

Behind the school is Rob McInally, bringing his extensive professional maritime experience to the role of principal. His qualifications include Yachtmaster Ocean, Yachtmaster Instructor, Advanced Powerboat, and Sea Survival Instructor.

McInally’s career began in the Royal Navy as a weapons engineer, then moved into competitive offshore sailing, including leading crews in the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. He has also worked in superyacht project management.

He says his teaching approach focuses on practical learning and adapting courses to suit individual students, creating what he describes as a “fun, relaxed and rewarding learning environment.”

“The facility fills an important gap in marine training along this stretch of coastline. We’re excited to bring RYA‑accredited education to Hythe and support students as they build the skills and confidence to enjoy the water safely,” says McInally. 

The refurbished classrooms on St John’s Street will combine modern training facilities with the character of a historic waterside building. As well as RYA courses, flexible spaces can also serve as alternative meeting or training rooms for local businesses.

Further information and bookings are available via the Associated Marine Training’s website.