Dinghy Sailing - Start Sailing (Level 2)
Learn to sail with more confidence and independence. This course is designed for improver sailors who have completed RYA Level 1 or have equivalent experience. Build on the fundamentals, practise the five essentials of sailing, develop practical seamanship skills, and become more confident sailing in a wider range of conditions.
Description
This two-day course is designed for sailors who already know the basics and are ready to build confidence and take the next step.
After a quick refresher, you’ll get straight back on the water — sailing around courses, developing boat handling skills, and becoming more confident in a wider range of conditions.
You’ll improve your practical sailing ability, sharpen your awareness of wind and sail trim, and begin sailing more efficiently and independently.
Course content
- Refresh rigging, the five essentials, and points of sailing
- Practise the five essentials on reaching and follow-my-leader exercises
- Improve upwind and downwind boat handling
- Learn effective man overboard recovery techniques
- Practise lee shore and weather shore landings and departures
- Develop smoother tacking and gybing
- Introduction to racing and sailing around a course
By the end of the course, you’ll feel more comfortable sailing in stronger winds and be ready to continue progressing — whether that’s racing, independent sailing, or getting out on the water with friends and family.
Sailing location
Train in one of Sydney’s most spectacular sailing environments at Middle Harbour Yacht Club.
Protected waters, reliable breezes, and numerous sandy beaches make this an ideal place to build skills and confidence.
Equipment and instructors
Our training fleet includes RS Zests and Laser Bahias — modern two-person dinghies that introduce performance sailing features including trapeze and asymmetric spinnakers.
Our qualified instructors are experienced, supportive, and passionate about helping sailors progress in a safe and enjoyable environment.
Private courses — great value and even more fun
Bring together your own group of family or friends and enjoy a private course experience.
Pay for 5 places and bring up to 6 participants.
Use the private course enquiry button at the top of the page to discuss options.
What's included
Training, equipment, safety cover.
Qualifications
- AS Sart Sailing - Level 2
Before you start
- This course is for improver dinghy sailors who have completed the level 1 course or who have equivalent experience.
- Suitable for adults and kids aged 12 and above.
- You should be able to swim 50 m.
What next?
- Once you have completed your level 2 course you will be competent to sail in light to moderate winds and confident to deal with the essential safety and seamanship skills of sailing.
- You are now ready to hire a dinghy, start racing, or join an adventure sailing experience.
Faq
- Booking information
- We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, as places are limited.
- View our Terms and Conditions.
- Do I need any previous experience?
- Yes. This course is for improver sailors who have completed RYA Level 1 or have equivalent basic sailing experience.
- You’ll start by recapping the fundamentals before developing your confidence and skills with guidance from our professional instructors.
- How fit do I need to be?
- You’ll need reasonable fitness and agility to move around the boat, practise skills repeatedly, and recover from the water after a capsize.
- While we provide Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), you should be able to swim at least 50 metres unaided in open water.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn are just as important as physical ability.
- If you’re unsure whether this course is suitable, please contact us to discuss your sailing experience and fitness level.
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- The course runs in a variety of wind and weather conditions to help you gain experience and confidence.
- If conditions are unsafe for sailing, we may deliver theory sessions, shore-based seamanship skills, or classroom modules instead.
- What should I bring with me?
- Wetsuit or sailing gear appropriate for the season
- Rash vest, swimwear, and quick-dry clothing
- Non-slip footwear such as dinghy boots or old trainers
- Hat, sunglasses with a strap, and high-factor sunscreen
- Towel and warm change of clothes
- Water bottle and lunch or snacks
- A positive attitude and willingness to develop your skills