OSRS Sailing 1-99: The Complete Training Guide

Sailing is Old School RuneScape’s first new skill, introducing a massive expansion to the game world. Whether you are looking to unlock new resources, engage in high-stakes sea combat, or reach the prestigious level 99, understanding the mechanics of wind, hulls, and navigation is essential. This guide breaks down the most efficient pathways for every type of player.

At-a-Glance: Sailing Training Methods

• Fastest XP: Barracuda Trials (70–80 hours to 99).

• Most Profitable/AFK: Shipwreck Salvaging (160 hours to 99; ~20M+ profit).

• Balanced Approach: Port Tasks (Courier and Bounty tasks).

• One-off Boosts: Sea Charting (Provides a total of 691k XP).

Understanding Your Vessel: Boat Types

Before hitting the open ocean, you must understand the three tiers of ships. Each serves a specific purpose in your training journey:

• Rafts (Level 1): Essential for the introductory quest and reaching shallow charting locations.

• Skiffs (Level 15): The go-to boat for Barracuda Trials and early salvaging due to high maneuverability.

• Sloops (Level 50): The powerhouse of the seas. These allow for the most facilities, highest hit points, and are optimal for combat and high-level salvaging.

Step-by-Step 1-99 Sailing Progression

Levels 1–30: The Foundations

Start by completing the Pandemonium Quest. This is mandatory to unlock the skill. From level 1 to 30, focus on Courier Port Tasks. While traveling between ports, always keep your spyglass ready for Sea Charting; identifying points of interest provides significant one-off XP drops that accelerate these early levels.

Levels 30–72: Barracuda Trials & Bounty Tasks

At level 30, you unlock the Temper Tantrum Barracuda Trial. This is high-intensity training but offers the best XP rates. If you prefer a more combat-oriented approach, switch to Bounty Tasks. Using cannons (from Bronze to Dragon) on sea monsters becomes highly viable here, especially if you upgrade your Hull and Keel for better defense.

Levels 72–99: High-Efficiency Sea Mastery

For the fastest route to 99, master the Gwennneth Glide Trial. At this stage, you can achieve up to 200k XP per hour. You will need a fully upgraded Rosewood Hull and a Crystal Extractor to maintain maximum speed. For those who prefer to profit while they train, Merchant Shipwrecks (unlocked at level 87) offer high-tier loot like Snapdragon seeds and Dragon materials.

Essential Ship Upgrades

Your boat’s performance is directly tied to its components. Prioritize these upgrades based on your goals:

• Hull: Increases base speed and hit points.

• Sail & Mast: Improves acceleration and wind boost duration.

• Helm: Allows navigation through rougher waters and rapids.

• Keel: Acts as armor, increasing defense against sea monsters.

Efficiency Note

Many players looking to reach the final tiers of the Barracuda Trials or install expensive Dragon-tier facilities choose to streamline their progress. If your playtime is limited, ArgenGaming offers a reliable convenience option to secure the gold and resources needed for high-level ship customization, ensuring you spend more time exploring and less time grinding for basic materials.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Crewmates: NPCs like Jobless Jim or Sailor Jacob provide massive buffs to helmsmanship and ship repair. Don't sail solo at higher levels.

• Abandoning Cargo: If your ship sinks or you teleport away, your cargo is lost. Always secure your loot at a port before leaving your vessel.

• Wrong Boat Size: Don't try to chart shallow areas with a Sloop; keep a Skiff or Raft available for full map completion.

Sailing FAQ

What is the fastest way to 99 Sailing?

The Barracuda Trials are the fastest method, taking roughly 70–80 hours to reach level 99 with high-intensity play.

Can I train Sailing AFK?

Yes. Shipwreck Salvaging allows for AFK intervals of up to 4 minutes, making it the preferred low-effort training method.

What Construction level do I need for Sailing?

While not strictly required to start, a Construction level of 87 is needed to unlock all top-tier ship facility upgrades.

Is Sailing profitable?

Yes. Through Salvaging and Trolling, players can expect to profit over 20M GP on the road to 99, with potential for more if high-value drops like Dragon Cannon Barrels are obtained.

How do I recover my boat if I get lost?

You can recover your boat at any dock by speaking to a Shipright NPC. The cost scales based on the size of the boat.