Guide

How to Start Sailing OSRS – Beginner Setup, Quests, and Tips

Learn how to start sailing OSRS with this detailed guide! Discover tips, quests, and the best setup for beginners in OSRS. Updated December 2025.

Last updated: 2025-12-05

Old School RuneScape (OSRS) is home to many unique skills, but with the introduction of Sailing, a brand-new skill has caught the attention of players. If you're looking to figure out how to start sailing OSRS, you've come to the right place! In this guide, we'll cover the essential steps, the best quests, and some tips that will help you get started on your sailing journey in OSRS.

What is Sailing in OSRS?

Sailing is OSRS’s newest skill, adding a whole new dimension to the game. This skill allows players to navigate the seas, uncover hidden islands, and discover treasures. With this update, players can also customize their sailing boats, earn new rewards, and experience a fresh type of gameplay.

But why is this skill so important for OSRS players? Sailing offers a unique way to progress in the game, with opportunities for money-making, exploration, and new gameplay mechanics. Whether you’re a seasoned OSRS player or a beginner, mastering how to start sailing OSRS will provide you with countless new adventures.

Getting Started with Sailing in OSRS

Before you set sail in OSRS, it's crucial to understand the basics of the skill. Here’s a breakdown of how to start sailing OSRS from the ground up.

The First Step: Unlocking Sailing

The first thing you need to do to start sailing OSRS is unlock the skill. To do so, you'll need to complete the introductory quest: "The Sailing Awakening." This quest introduces you to the mechanics of sailing, such as navigating your boat, charting new waters, and gathering materials.

Upon completion of the quest, you will have access to the sailing menu, where you can track your progress, unlock new boat upgrades, and access various tasks related to the skill.

Equipment and Boats

One of the first things you’ll need to get used to is your boat and the equipment associated with sailing. Your boat is your primary tool for exploration, and it can be upgraded as you progress in the skill.

Here’s a quick rundown of the different types of boats available to players:

  • Basic Boat: Your starting point, which you can use to explore nearby waters.
  • Upgraded Boats: As you level up in sailing, you can unlock more advanced ships that are faster and better equipped for exploration and combat.

Additionally, each boat can be customized with different sails, hull types, and accessories to improve its performance.

Once you unlock your boat, you’ll be able to sail on the seas. Each trip requires a certain amount of resources, such as wood and materials that can be obtained through exploration. You can also participate in activities like shipwreck salvaging, where you can gather valuable items.

As you sail, you'll encounter different islands, quests, and mini-games that reward you with experience and resources to further improve your sailing capabilities.

Sailing Quests to Boost Your Progress

While sailing itself is fun, quests play a huge part in helping you level up quickly. Several quests in OSRS revolve around sailing, and completing them gives you not only experience but also valuable rewards.

Here are some quests you should focus on:

  • The Lost Shipwreck: This quest unlocks a new area for exploration and gives you early access to valuable sailing materials.
  • The Seafaring Trials: This quest introduces new boat upgrades and rewards you with significant experience.
  • Tides of Treasure: A great quest for earning rewards and unlocking new islands to explore.

By completing these quests, you'll be well on your way to becoming a seasoned sailor in OSRS.

Tips for Efficient Sailing in OSRS

When you first start sailing OSRS, there are a few tips you can follow to maximize your progress:

  1. Focus on Completing Quests Early: Quests provide valuable experience and unlock new sailing features. Focus on completing the essential quests as soon as possible.
  2. Upgrade Your Boat: Upgrading your boat can make a huge difference in your exploration speed and success. Don't neglect boat upgrades as they will make future sailing trips more efficient.
  3. Utilize Salvaging: Salvaging wrecks is a great way to gather materials and make money. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for salvage as you explore new islands.
  4. Join the Community: OSRS has a thriving community of sailors. Don’t hesitate to ask for tips, participate in group events, or trade with other players to make your sailing journey easier.

Leveling Up Sailing in OSRS

Just like any other skill, sailing requires experience points (XP) to level up. Here's a simple guide on how to efficiently level up your sailing:

  • 1-20 Sailing: Focus on completing beginner quests and exploring the initial islands.
  • 21-50 Sailing: At this level, you can start salvaging shipwrecks and unlock new boat types.
  • 50-99 Sailing: The advanced stages of sailing involve mastering new boat upgrades, exploring high-level islands, and participating in group activities to maximize XP gain.

While sailing is an exciting skill to learn, it’s important to note that it can be time-consuming. However, with a little patience, you’ll quickly find yourself mastering the seas of OSRS.

Watch this video to learn more about sailing leveling in OSRS:

This comprehensive guide covers Sailing training from level 1 to 99.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do I start sailing OSRS?
A: To start sailing OSRS, you need to complete the quest "The Sailing Awakening" to unlock the skill. Once unlocked, you can begin exploring new islands and upgrading your boat.

Q: What is the best way to level up sailing in OSRS?
A: The best way to level up sailing is by completing sailing-related quests, salvaging shipwrecks, and upgrading your boat. These activities provide valuable XP and resources.

Q: Can I make money with sailing in OSRS?
A: Yes, sailing can be a great way to make money, especially by salvaging shipwrecks and completing various sailing tasks that reward you with rare items and resources.

Q: What are the key sailing quests in OSRS?
A: Some of the key quests to focus on are "The Lost Shipwreck," "The Seafaring Trials," and "Tides of Treasure." These quests unlock new sailing features and offer valuable rewards.


This guide provides you with all the essential information on how to start sailing OSRS. Whether you’re a new player or an experienced adventurer, sailing adds a whole new layer of depth to your OSRS experience.

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