Start Yachting Weekend
Learn to sail on Sydney Harbour in a fun, hands-on weekend designed for complete beginners. Build confidence, experience life on board, and take the first step toward internationally recognised RYA qualifications.
Description
Start Yachting is the perfect introduction to sailing and the internationally recognised Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training scheme.
Spend two unforgettable days learning to sail on spectacular Sydney Harbour. Build practical sailing skills, gain confidence on the water and discover why sailing becomes a lifelong passion for so many people.
Whether you're looking for a new hobby, planning future yacht charter holidays or taking your first step towards Yachtmaster qualifications, this is where your sailing journey begins.
What you'll do
- Take the helm and steer under sail and power
- Trim sails and experience how a yacht responds
- Practise rope handling, winches and onboard teamwork
- Learn to tack, gybe and handle the yacht safely
- Discover the points of sailing and basic sail trim
- Experience life as part of a cruising yacht crew
Learn with experienced instructors
Learn aboard Flying Fish's Beneteau First 40.7 training yachts with experienced RYA instructors who specialise in teaching beginners.
Small groups, with a maximum of five students, ensure plenty of time at the helm, individual coaching and a relaxed, supportive atmosphere where you'll progress at your own pace.
Why Sydney Harbour?
Sydney Harbour is one of the world's great sailing destinations and the ideal place to learn.
Its sheltered waters, reliable sea breezes and spectacular scenery provide excellent sailing conditions throughout the year.
Flying Fish Sailing has introduced thousands of people to sailing from our base at Middle Harbour Yacht Club for more than twenty years.
Private courses – perfect for families and friends
Enjoy exclusive use of your own Flying Fish yacht and instructor with a private sailing course tailored to your group.
Ideal for families, friends, birthdays, celebrations and corporate groups, private courses offer flexible dates, excellent value and a memorable day on Sydney Harbour.
See the FAQs below for private course information or contact us using the enquiry button at the top of the page.
What's included
- Two days of professional RYA sailing instruction in small groups.
- RYA Start Yachting logbook, certificate and pre-course information pack.
- Lifejackets and all required safety equipment provided.
- Wet weather clothing available to borrow if required.
- Training aboard our Beneteau First 40.7 yachts with enclosed bathroom facilities.
- Please bring your own lunch and snacks.
Before you start
- No previous sailing experience is required. This course is designed specifically for complete beginners.
- After booking, you'll receive some short pre-course reading to help you get the most from your first weekend on the water.
What next?
- For many students, Start Yachting is just the beginning. Continue your sailing journey with two RYA Competent Crew Weekends and gain the internationally recognised RYA Competent Crew certificate.
- If you'd prefer to immerse yourself in sailing, you can complete the entire programme in one RYA Competent Crew – 5 Days course.
- Book three or more Flying Fish courses in a single transaction and receive a 10% discount.
Testimonials
- 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)”
Faq
- 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.