Try Yachting
Experience the magic of sailing on Sydney Harbour aboard one of our comfortable yachts, and enjoy a fun, hands-on introduction to the exciting sport of sailing in a safe and relaxed environment.
Description

Try Yachting is our exciting three-hour sailing taster – perfect for beginners, but just as fun for those with experience!
Whether you're brand new or already know your way around a boat, you're welcome aboard to enjoy the sea breeze, sunshine, and hands-on fun on Sydney Harbour.
Come on your own and meet a boatload of great new people – or bring a friend (or two) and share the adventure. You’ll even save money when you book together!
Want to make it your own? You can also book a private Try Yachting experience for up to 10 people — ideal for family, friends, or colleagues. See FAQ for details.
If three hours isn’t quite enough, you can upgrade to our full-day Discover Yachting course and enjoy even more time experiencing the wonders of sailing in one of the world’s most beautiful harbours.
Safety first
We kick things off with a short safety briefing and then introduce you to the yacht's key parts — clutches, winches, halyards, sheets, and more.
Next, it’s time to get sailing! You’ll learn to hoist and trim the sails, sail across the wind, helm the yacht on different points of sail, and tack like a pro.
Morning or afternoon?
Choose a time that suits you – we offer both morning and afternoon sessions.
Looking for a calm and relaxed experience? Mornings are usually gentler.
Craving a bit more breeze and excitement? Go for the afternoon when the wind is typically stronger.
Friendly, experienced instruction
One of our qualified instructors will guide you in the friendly and supportive style that defines Flying Fish.
Après sail
After your session, enjoy a refreshing drink at the waterside Sand Bar at Middle Harbour Yacht Club or relax with lunch at a nearby café.
🎁 Give the gift of adventure
Looking for a unique gift? Our Try Yachting experience makes a memorable present for birthdays, Christmas, Mother’s Day, and more!
We offer attractive gift vouchers for one, two, or more people – valid for 36 months and easy to redeem online with a unique code. ⛵
To buy a voucher, enquire here and tell us what you want. 🎁
What's included
- Tuition.
- Life jackets are provided and we can loan you wet weather clothing if required.
- All vessels have an enclosed bathroom on board.
- Please bring your own water and snacks.
Before you start
No previous experience is required.
Try Yachting is suitable for kids aged 12+ when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Please come prepared:
- Wear comfortable clothing and non-slip footwear.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early so we can start on time.
- Sessions may be rescheduled in the event of unsuitable weather.
What next?
- If you enjoy the experience and want to learn to sail join a Start Yachting Weekend for a basic introduction or a Competent Crew week for a more comprehensive course.
Faq
- What will I learn?
- A fun, hands-on introduction to the basics of sailing.
- How to hoist and trim the sails.
- How to steer (helm) the yacht.
- How to work sheets, winches, and simple sailing controls.
- How to tack and sail across the wind.
- Learning is practical, safe, and suitable for all abilities.
- How fit do I need to be?
- You only need reasonable mobility to move around the yacht comfortably.
- No significant strength or advanced fitness is required.
- If you have concerns about mobility or physical limitations, please contact us for advice.
- What if I get seasick?
- Most people do not experience seasickness as we sail mainly in sheltered Sydney Harbour.
- If you are prone to motion sickness, consider taking medication beforehand.
- A pharmacist can recommend suitable options.
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- Try Yachting can run in a wide range of conditions.
- We may shorten, delay, or reschedule only if the weather becomes unsafe.
- Lifejackets are provided and wet-weather clothing can be borrowed if required.
- What type of yacht will we sail on?
- You’ll sail on one of our comfortable and well-maintained training yachts.
- All yachts have an enclosed bathroom on board.
- They offer a stable, enjoyable platform ideal for beginners.
- What should I bring?
- Comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes.
- A hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Your own water and snacks.
- We can loan wet-weather jackets if needed.
- Can I book a private Try Yachting session?
- Yes — private sessions are available for up to 10 people.
- The cost is A$1490 for a private three-hour Try Yachting experience.
- Perfect for families, friends, celebrations, or team-building outings.
- Please enquire here to arrange a private course.

Safety first
Friendly, experienced instruction