The passage begins at Hamilton Island Marina before heading south through the spectacular Whitsunday Islands and along Australia’s east coast.

The route typically includes the Keppel Islands, Fraser Island, Mooloolaba, Southport, Coffs Harbour, and Port Stephens before finishing at Middle Harbour Yacht Club in Sydney approximately two weeks later.

The exact route is planned around weather and sea conditions, providing a wide variety of sailing experiences, navigational challenges, and offshore passagemaking opportunities.

Course content

During the passage, you’ll develop experience in:

• Preparation for sea
• Safety equipment and procedures
• Pilotage and passage planning
• Offshore navigation and watchkeeping
• Heavy weather preparation and seamanship
• Helming, sail trim, and yacht handling offshore
• Night sailing and onboard routines
• Crew management and the role of the skipper

Weather and conditions

Conditions are usually warm at the start in Hamilton Island before gradually becoming cooler as the passage heads south towards Sydney.

Expect a variety of wind strengths, sea states, and weather conditions typical of offshore sailing on Australia’s east coast.

The yacht and instructors

The passage is led by an experienced and friendly RYA-qualified instructor.

You’ll sail aboard one of our Beneteau First 40 offshore training yachts, fully equipped for coastal and offshore passagemaking.

• Accommodation with meals on the yacht, fuel and consumables, marina fees, safety equipment, tuition, and publications.
• We can lend you wet weather clothing if needed.
• Flights are not included.
• Expect to eat ashore for a few nights at your own expense.

Qualifications

• 1,000 sea miles logged.
• RYA Yachtmaster qualifying passages
• Watchkeeping experience.

• You have spent at least 10 days on board, logging a minimum of 300 nautical miles and eight night hours.
• You hold the RYA Day Skipper practical certificate or have equivalent experience. 

• At the end of the course, your instructor will give you feedback on your sailing and skippering ability and make recommendations for your future training and experience.

• Booking information
  • To secure your place, pay a 20% holding deposit via the links above. This reserves your spot until 60 days before the course start date, when the balance is due.
  • The deposit is non‑refundable but may be transferred to any other Flying Fish course or event.
  • Spaces are limited—early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.
  • See our terms and conditions.
• Who should attend?
  • Designed for RYA Day Skippers (or equivalent) looking to progress into coastal and offshore sailing.
  • Participants must be confident in steering, trimming sails, handling lines and winches, and standing watch.
  • You’ll refine your seamanship, navigation, and leadership skills under real offshore conditions.
  • Many of our customers are progressing along the RYA Yachtmaster pathway to commercial qualification. This passage is instrumental in this regard, offering lots of offshore navigation and pilotage practice.
  • Each passage boosts your confidence—expect to return a much more capable skipper or crew.
• What type of yacht will I sail on?
  • We sail aboard our offshore‑rated Beneteau First 40 cruiser‑racer.
  • This yacht provides a stable and responsive platform, equipped with modern navigation systems and comprehensive safety gear.
  • Crew accommodation in comfortable cabins, with shared heads and galley facilities on board.
• How fit do I need to be?
  • The course involves deck work, sail handling, and watchkeeping in variable conditions.
  • Reasonable fitness, agility, and a positive attitude are essential.
  • If you’re prone to seasickness, bring your preferred remedy and start treatment at least 24 hours before departure.
• What if the weather is bad?
  • Training continues in most conditions—handling challenging weather is an integral part of the learning process.
  • We only delay departure for genuine safety risks; otherwise, it’s valuable real‑world practice.
• What should I bring?
  • Quick‑dry layers and warm mid‑layers for cooler conditions
  • Waterproof jacket and trousers (loan sets available if needed)
  • Non‑slip deck shoes or trainers
  • Hat, sunglasses, and high‑factor sunscreen
  • Sleeping bag, pillowcase, towel and personal toiletries
  • Headtorch with red‑light function
  • Seasickness medication (start 24 hours before)
  • A sense of adventure and teamwork!