Try Yachting is a relaxed, three-hour sailing taster – perfect for beginners, and just as enjoyable for those with some experience.

Learn the basics, get hands-on at the helm, and experience the magic of sailing on Sydney Harbour as part of a small crew.

Come on your own or with friends – it’s a social, memorable experience on the water.

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, book our full-day Discover Yachting experience and enjoy even more time on one of the world’s most beautiful harbours.

Safety first

We start with a short safety briefing before heading out onto the harbour.

Your instructor will guide you through the basics step by step, helping you build confidence as you get involved in sailing the yacht.

Morning or afternoon?

Choose the experience that suits you:

• Morning: calmer conditions and a more relaxed pace
• Afternoon: stronger winds and a more dynamic sail

Friendly, experienced instruction

One of our qualified instructors will guide you in the friendly, supportive style that defines Flying Fish – making it easy to relax, get involved, and enjoy your time on the water.

Après sail

After your session, unwind at Middle Harbour Yacht Club — enjoy a drink at the Sand Bar or lunch at a nearby café.

🎁 Give the gift of adventure

Looking for something different? Our Try Yachting experience makes a memorable gift for birthdays, Christmas, Mother’s Day, and other special occasions.

We offer flexible 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. 

• 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.