To qualify as an RYA instructor in both dinghy sailing and windsurfing, you’ll need strong practical skills, sound theory knowledge, excellent safety awareness, and the ability to coach and motivate others on the water.

The Flying Fish Fast Track programme is designed to accelerate your development in a world-class training environment on Sydney Harbour.

The programme combines intensive on-water training, instructor coaching, shore-based theory, and essential qualifications including First Aid and RYA Powerboat Level 2.

You’ll also receive introductory training in stand-up paddleboarding and wingsurfing, helping you build broader watersports skills and confidence.

By the end of the course, you’ll be confident delivering safe, effective, and enjoyable sessions in both dinghy sailing and windsurfing.

Course programme

• Week 1: RYA Dinghy Level 2 & 3
• Week 2: RYA Race Training and Spinnaker Handling
• Week 3: RYA Day Sailing and Seamanship Skills
• Week 4: RYA Dinghy Instructor Course
• Week 5: RYA Start Windsurfing and Intermediate Non-planing
• Week 6: RYA Intermediate Planing and First Aid
• Week 7: RYA Powerboat Level 2 and on-water coaching
• Week 8: RYA Start Windsurfing Instructor Course

Sailing location and conditions

The course takes place at Middle Harbour Yacht Club on Sydney Harbour — the heart of Australia’s sailing and watersports scene.

Expect warm sunshine, steady sea breezes, sheltered water, and easy access to beautiful beaches and harbour coves.

Middle Harbour provides an ideal environment for rapid progression in both dinghy sailing and windsurfing, with reliable conditions and plenty of space to practise your skills safely.

Equipment and instructors

Training takes place using Laser Bahias, RS Zests, TAHE windsurf boards, and Highfield rigid inflatable rescue boats.

We also provide paddleboards and training wings for introductory wingsurfing sessions.

Theory sessions and briefings are held in our comfortable waterfront classroom at Middle Harbour Yacht Club.

Throughout the programme, you’ll be coached by experienced RYA-qualified instructors known for their professional, supportive, and hands-on teaching style.

Accommodation and local area

If you’re travelling from interstate or overseas, you’ll need accommodation for the duration of the course.

Flying Fish offers limited places in our serviced crew apartments in Manly, where you’ll stay with other Flying Fish students close to cafés, beaches, and public transport.

Alternatively, you are welcome to arrange your own accommodation nearby.

• 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

• Intermediate SUP skills 
• RYA Powerboat Level 2 / TCP First Aid / RYA Safe and Fun 
• RYA Start Windsurfing Instructor
• RYA Dinghy Sailing Instructor

• There are no formal pre-course requirements.
• We can accept you on this programme as a beginner, although you will benefit from having mastered the basics of at least one of the sports before you join us.

• On passing the RYA Windsurfing and Dinghy Instructor qualifications you are ready to start work as an instructor. 
• Being dual-qualified you will be more attractive to employers who run both sports at their schools. 
• You will find plenty of work opportunities, particularly during the Australian and Mediterranean summer 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 60 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 another Flying Fish course or event.
  • 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 handle dinghies and windsurfing equipment, demonstrate skills repeatedly, and assist students on the water.
  • A positive attitude and a willingness to learn, adapt, and coach others are just as important as physical ability.
  • If you’re unsure whether this course is suitable for you, feel free to contact us to discuss your watersports experience and fitness level.
• What happens if the weather is bad?
  • The course runs in a range of wind and weather conditions, so you can gain experience adapting your coaching style.
  • If extreme weather makes it unsafe to go on the water, we’ll use the time for theory sessions, shore-based coaching techniques, and classroom modules.
• What should I bring with me?
  • Wetsuit or appropriate sailing/windsurf gear 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?
  • All international visitors, except Australians and New Zealanders, must apply for a visa before travelling to Australia.
  • Please do not apply for a student visa — these are only valid for government-recognised education providers.
  • A tourist visa or working holiday visa (if you plan to work before or after your course) is suitable for this program.
• What job opportunities are there after becoming an RYA-qualified instructor?
  • Once qualified, you can work at sailing schools and watersports centres in Australia, the UK, the Mediterranean, and worldwide, teaching dinghy sailing and windsurfing to beginners and improvers.
  • Many instructors combine their qualifications with travel, taking on seasonal roles at resorts, holiday companies, and beach clubs.
  • Gaining both the RYA Dinghy Instructor and Windsurf Instructor qualifications increases your versatility and employability at most centres.