The passage begins at Hamilton Island Marina. We sail south through the magic miles of the Whitsundays and the Keppel Islands before heading on past Fraser Island and Mooloolaba to Southport. 

Then, after a short layover for some well-earned R and R, it is on to Coffs Harbour, Port Stevens, and finally Middle Harbour Yacht Club in Sydney two weeks later.

We will plan the precise route to take the best advantage of the weather. Whatever the forecast, you can expect varied sailing conditions and some navigational challenges along the way.

Course content

You will develop your skills and experience in the following key areas

• Preparation for sea
• Safety equipment and procedures
• Pilotage and passage planning
• Offshore navigation
• Preparing for heavy weather
• Helming, sail trim, and boat handling offshore 
• Watchkeeping and night passages
• Crew management and the role of the skipper

Weather en route 

You can expect the weather to be warm at the start in Hamilton Island and to get progressively cooler as you make your way south towards Sydney.

Expect to get a variety of wind strengths and directions at this time of the year. 

The yacht and the instructor 

The passage will be run by a friendly and experienced RYA-qualified instructor. 

You will be on board one of our Beneteau First 40-foot training yachts, which are fully set up for offshore sailing. 

• Accommodation with meals on the yacht, fuel and consumables, marina fees, safety equipment, tuition, and publications.
• We can lend you wet weather clothing if needed.
• Flights are not included.
• Expect to eat ashore for a few nights at your own expense.

Qualifications

• 1,000 sea miles logged.
• RYA Yachtmaster qualifying passages
• Watchkeeping experience.

• You have spent at least 15 days on board, including two as skipper, logging a minimum of 300 nautical miles and eight night hours.
• You hold the RYA Day Skipper practical certificate or have equivalent experience. 
• You will have a good grasp of navigation, meteorology, pilotage and the IRPCS equivalent to the knowledge gained in the RYA Dayskipper Shore-based Theory course.

• At the end of the course, your instructor will give you feedback on your sailing and skippering ability and make recommendations for your future training and experience.

• Booking information
  • To secure your place, pay a 20% holding deposit via the links above. This reserves your spot until 60 days before the course start date, when the balance is due.
  • The deposit is non‑refundable but may be transferred to any other Flying Fish course or event.
  • Spaces are limited—early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
  • See our terms and conditions.
• Who should attend?
  • Designed for RYA Day Skippers (or equivalent) looking to progress into coastal and offshore sailing.
  • Participants must be confident steering, trimming sails, handling lines and winches, and standing watch.
  • You’ll refine your seamanship, navigation, and leadership skills under real offshore conditions.
• What type of yacht will I sail on?
  • We sail aboard our offshore‑rated Beneteau First 40 cruiser‑racer.
  • This yacht provides a stable and responsive platform, equipped with modern navigation systems and comprehensive safety gear.
  • Crew accommodation in comfortable cabins, with shared heads and galley facilities on board.
• How fit do I need to be?
  • The course involves deck work, sail handling, and watchkeeping in variable conditions.
  • Reasonable fitness, agility, and a positive attitude are essential.
  • If you’re prone to seasickness, bring your preferred remedy and start treatment at least 24 hours before departure.
• How long to become an offshore sailor?
  • Offshore sailing is a lifelong learning journey; this five‑day course provides an intensive introduction.
  • Many graduates progress along the RYA Yachtmaster pathway to commercial qualification.
  • Each passage boosts your confidence—expect to return a much more capable skipper or crew.
• What if the weather is bad?
  • Training continues in most conditions—handling challenging weather is an integral part of the learning process.
  • We only delay departure for genuine safety risks; otherwise, it’s valuable real‑world practice.
• What should I bring?
  • Quick‑dry layers and warm mid‑layers for cooler conditions
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers (loan sets available if needed)
  • Non‑slip deck shoes or trainers
  • Hat, sunglasses, and high‑factor sunscreen
  • Sleeping bag, pillowcase, towel and personal toiletries
  • Headtorch with red‑light function
  • Seasickness medication (start 24 hours before)
  • A sense of adventure and teamwork!