Start Yachting is a fun, hands-on weekend course for complete beginners and the perfect introduction to sailing and the world-renowned Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training scheme.

Spend two days on beautiful Sydney Harbour learning practical sailing skills, building confidence on the water, and experiencing life as part of a yacht crew.

What you'll learn

• Basic sea terms and parts of the yacht
• Steering under sail and power
• Points of sailing and sail trim
• Winches, clutches, and rope handling
• Tacking and gybing
• Sail handling and crew roles
• Berthing, unberthing, and onboard safety

Learn with experienced instructors

Learn aboard one of Flying Fish’s Beneteau 40-foot sailing yachts in a small group with a maximum of five students.

Our experienced instructors create a relaxed, supportive environment that helps you build skills quickly and enjoy the experience from day one.

Why Sydney Harbour?

Flying Fish Sailing is based at Middle Harbour Yacht Club, providing easy marina access and ideal learning conditions.

Sydney Harbour offers spectacular scenery and generally reliable sailing conditions throughout the year — making it one of the world’s best places to learn.

Your next step

Many students continue their sailing journey by completing two RYA Competent Crew Weekends, leading to the internationally recognised RYA Competent Crew certificate.

If you are ready for a bigger adventure, you can complete the full programme in one go with RYA Competent Crew – 5 Days.

Book three or more Flying Fish courses in one order and receive a 10% discount on your total booking.

Private courses – ideal for families and friends

Gather your own crew and enjoy a private sailing experience aboard your own Flying Fish yacht.

Private courses are a great way to learn together, celebrate a special occasion, or enjoy a memorable experience on Sydney Harbour with flexible dates and excellent value.

Please see the FAQ section below for details or contact us using the enquiry button at the top of the page.

• Professional tuition, logbook, and pre-course reading materials.
• RYA Start Yachting certificate on successful completion.
• Lifejackets and safety harnesses are provided, and wet weather clothing can be loaned if required.
• All vessels have an enclosed bathroom on board.
• Please bring your own lunch and snacks.

• No experience is needed. This course is designed for newcomers to sailing.
• We will provide you with some basic pre-course reading when you book the course.

• Complete two RYA Competent Crew Weekends for the RYA Competent Crew Certificate 
• Then go on to Day Skipper Theory and Practical and you will be ready to skipper your own boat.

• Michael Green 
• Private Start Yachting Weekend
• 
• "Our instructor for the Start Yachting Course last weekend was wonderful. The whole family had an amazing time!"
• Alison Thursby
• Start Yachting Weeekend
• 
• “ Our instructor, Chris was fantastic. I now understand the basics of sailing and have recommended the course to many others. I look forward to doing a competent crew course soon ”
• Jessie Williams
• Start Yachting Weekend 
• 
• “Matt is a deadset legend. He took a group of 5 adults who knew absolutely nothing about sailing to a place where we all felt proud and exhilarated! He was calm, funny, specific, and clear. He tracked us as individuals, offering reminders and tips on the things we got wrong (without telling us that we got it wrong)”

• Booking information
  • Please review our terms and conditions and cancellation policy before booking.
  • We recommend booking early as places are limited and popular dates often fill in advance.
• Do I need any experience to join Start Yachting?
  • No experience is required — Start Yachting is designed specifically for complete beginners.
  • You will learn practical sailing skills while building confidence and enjoying life on board in a relaxed, supportive environment.
• What will I learn?
  • You will learn the fundamentals of sailing including steering, sail trim, rope handling, points of sailing, tacking, gybing, onboard safety, and basic yacht manoeuvres.
  • You will also begin developing an understanding of weather, navigation, and working as part of a crew.
• How long does it take to learn to sail?
  • Most people gain useful sailing skills within just a few days.
  • Many students continue with two RYA Competent Crew weekends or the RYA Competent Crew 5 Day course to develop further experience and achieve the internationally recognised RYA Competent Crew certificate.
  • The RYA training scheme provides a clear pathway from beginner through to Yachtmaster and professional qualifications.
• Am I too old, unfit, or likely to get seasick?
  • Not at all — we welcome participants of many ages and abilities, and students regularly join us from teenagers through to their 60s and beyond.
  • You do not need to be highly athletic, but reasonable mobility and a moderate level of fitness help make the experience more enjoyable.
  • Seasickness is uncommon on our introductory courses as most sailing takes place on sheltered Sydney Harbour, although conditions can occasionally become lively.
  • If you are concerned, simple preventative medication from your pharmacy is usually very effective.
• What happens if the weather is bad?
  • Sailing is an all-weather sport and learning in a variety of conditions is part of the experience.
  • We very rarely cancel courses due to weather and adapt activities to suit the conditions.
• What type of yacht will I learn on?
  • Training is delivered aboard Flying Fish Beneteau First 40.7 yachts — comfortable, responsive yachts that are ideal for learning.
  • They feature spacious cockpits, comfortable accommodation below deck, and are fully equipped for training and life on board.
• Can I book a private sailing course for my family or group?
  • Absolutely — private sailing courses are a popular option for families, friends, celebrations, and team experiences.
  • Private courses offer flexible dates, excellent value, and exclusive use of your own Flying Fish yacht and instructor.
  • The minimum age for private courses is 12 years.
• What should I bring?
  • Quick-dry clothing and comfortable layers.
  • Lightweight waterproof jacket (loan foul weather gear available).
  • Non-slip shoes.
  • Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
  • Warm layers in cooler months.
  • Lifejackets are provided.
  • A sense of adventure and team spirit.