To gain the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification, you’ll need to demonstrate strong sailing skills, safety awareness, sound theory knowledge, and the ability to coach and inspire others on the water.

Our Fast Track programme is designed to rapidly develop both your sailing and teaching skills in one of the world’s best learn-to-sail locations.

You’ll build confidence on the water, learn how to deliver engaging sailing sessions, and develop the practical coaching techniques required to become a professional instructor.

By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills, knowledge, and teaching confidence to deliver safe, enjoyable, and effective sailing instruction.

Course programme

• Week 1: RYA Level 2 & 3 sailing skills
• Week 2: Race training and spinnaker handling
• Week 3: Seamanship Skills, Day Sailing, and RYA Powerboat Level 2
• Week 4: RYA Dinghy Instructor and First Aid

Sailing location

The course is based at Middle Harbour Yacht Club on Sydney Harbour — one of the world’s most iconic sailing destinations.

Expect warm sunshine, reliable sea breezes, and a huge sailing area with beautiful beaches and sheltered bays just a short sail away.

It’s an outstanding environment to develop your sailing, coaching, and water confidence while enjoying the lifestyle of Sydney Harbour.

Middle Harbour is also home to the Australian Olympic Sailing Team, creating an inspiring atmosphere for training and performance sailing.

Equipment and instructors

Training takes place in our fleet of RS Zests and Laser Bahias — modern two-person dinghies equipped with trapeze and asymmetric spinnakers.

These versatile boats are ideal for developing advanced sailing skills and learning how to teach a wide range of techniques safely and effectively.

We also have paddleboards and windsurfers available, giving you exposure to a broader range of watersports activities.

Instruction is delivered by experienced RYA-qualified coaches with a professional, supportive, and hands-on teaching style.

Accommodation and local area

If you’re travelling from interstate or overseas, most students choose to stay in Manly — Sydney’s famous beachside suburb known for its surf culture, cafés, nightlife, and relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Manly is a short bus or Uber ride from our training centre at Middle Harbour Yacht Club.

Accommodation options include hostels, Airbnb, shared rentals, and Flying Fish serviced crew apartments in Manly (subject to availability).

Staying with other Flying Fish students is a great way to make friends and enjoy the social side of the programme.

• Tuition, logbook, pre-course reading, training resources, and certification. 
• PFDs are provided and we can loan you wet weather clothing if required.

Qualifications and skills 

• RYA Powerboat Level 2
• TCP First Aid / RYA Safe and Fun 
• RYA Dinghy Instructor

• Our 4-week Fast-track course is suitable for basic intermediate dinghy sailors with skills equivalent to RYA or AS Level 2.
• If you are starting as a complete beginner please contact us about doing some extra foundation training before you start.  

• On passing the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification you are ready to start work on the water as a sailing instructor.
• If you join us in Sydney in October / November you will be well timed for work in the Australian high season when you finish.
• If you prefer Sydney in February / March you could return to Europe in time for the Mediterranean season.

• Booking information
  • To secure your place on the course, please pay a 20% holding deposit via the links provided on our website. This deposit will reserve your spot until sixty days before the course start date, when the remaining course fees are due.
  • Please note that the deposit is non-refundable; however, it can be transferred to any other course or event offered by Flying Fish.
  • We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, as places are limited.
  • View our Terms and Conditions.
• How fit do I need to be?
  • You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and agility to move around the boat, demonstrate skills repeatedly, and assist students on the water.
  • A positive attitude and a willingness to learn, adapt, and teach are just as important as physical ability.
  • If you’re unsure whether this course is suitable for you, please contact us to discuss your sailing experience and fitness level.
• What happens if the weather is bad?
  • The course runs in a variety of wind and weather conditions to help you gain experience in adapting your teaching style.
  • In the unlikely event of extreme weather where it’s unsafe to sail, theory sessions, shore-based teaching techniques, and classroom modules will be covered instead.
• What should I bring with me?
  • Wetsuit or sailing gear appropriate for the season
  • Rash vest, swimwear, and quick-dry clothing
  • Non-slip footwear such as dinghy boots or old trainers
  • Hat, sunglasses with a strap, and high-factor sunscreen
  • A towel and a warm change of clothes for after sessions
  • Water bottle and lunch/snacks for the day
  • A positive attitude, enthusiasm, and a willingness to develop your coaching skills!
• Do I need a visa if I’m travelling from overseas?
  • Apart from Australians and New Zealanders, everyone travelling to Australia must apply for a visa in advance.
  • Do not apply for a student visa – these are only available for government-sanctioned higher education courses.
  • A tourist visa or a working holiday visa (if you plan to work before or after your course) is acceptable for this program.
• What job opportunities are there after becoming an RYA qualified Dinghy Instructor?
  • Once qualified, you can work at sailing schools and watersports centres in the Mediterranean, the UK, and Australia, teaching dinghy sailing to beginners and improvers.
  • Many instructors combine their qualifications with travel, working seasonal roles at resorts, holiday companies, and beach clubs.
  • It’s also a great idea to add an RYA Windsurf Instructor qualification to broaden your employability and teach a wider range of activities at most centres.