That old chestnut - sea school recommendation

[Shuggy]

I've had a good search but can't find anything that answers my question (& before you ask, I have not set virtual foot in TOP since the last Lakesailor incident & will not return so can't look there!).

Myself & 2 pals want to do an RYA course. We would like to do a full week with different requirements (me - Coastal, them - Day), and I would like to take the Coastal practical exam with them as crew at the end of the 5 day course. We can't use my boat because she sails like, well, a 13 ton motorsailer with sails the size of a pocket hanky, so we need...

1. A friendly instructor who likes to have a bit of a laugh while he/she is teaching, with a nice* boat, who will run the 2 courses for the 3 of us simultaneously.

2. Someone based in and around Oban/Craobh/Crinan for ease of access to the base & to cracking places to sail to.

3. Someone who is used to having an RYA examiner on their boat & can let me know how to behave when I'm being examined!

I know there are lots of links to sailing schools but I really need a personal recommendation if anyone has one, please.

Also, do I need to have a first aid certificate in advance of my exam? Anyone know?

Thanks.

*nice = not too small - 36ft up(?) & also not too manky

[puddock]

I cn thoroughly recommend Alba Sailing (particularly with Chris Stopfaord as instructor). Very easy going, knowledgable and likable.I have used both twice now and intend to use their services in the future.

No connection bla bla....... just happy customer/ pupil.

[Shuggy]

Thank you - that'll do for starters...