Try Yachting
Try sailing on Sydney Harbour in just 3 hours. Learn the basics, get hands-on at the helm, and experience the magic of sailing — all in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session. No experience needed. Just come aboard and give it a go.
Description
Try Yachting is the perfect introduction to sailing on spectacular Sydney Harbour.
Over three enjoyable hours you'll take the helm, trim the sails and discover the thrill of sailing a modern cruising yacht as part of a small, friendly crew.
Whether you come on your own, with a partner or as a group of friends, it's a great way to experience one of the world's most beautiful natural harbours.
Looking for a bit more time on the water? Choose our full-day Discover Yachting experience.
Learn in a safe, relaxed environment
Your session begins with a short safety briefing before we cast off from Middle Harbour Yacht Club.
Our instructors will guide you throughout the sail, making it easy to get involved and enjoy your first taste of sailing.
Morning or afternoon?
Choose the session that suits you.
- Morning: generally lighter winds and a relaxed pace.
- Afternoon: typically stronger sea breezes for a more exhilarating sail.
Experienced instructors
Our qualified instructors are passionate about introducing people to sailing.
Their friendly, supportive approach ensures everyone feels welcome, whether it's your first time aboard or you're returning for another day on the harbour.
After your sail
Why not stay a little longer? Enjoy lunch or a drink overlooking the marina at Middle Harbour Yacht Club and make the most of your day on Sydney Harbour.
Gift vouchers
Looking for a memorable gift? A Try Yachting gift voucher is perfect for birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions.
Gift vouchers are available for one or more people, remain valid for 36 months and are easy to redeem online using a unique voucher code.
To purchase a gift voucher, contact us here and let us know how many people you'd like the voucher to cover.
What's included
- Professional instruction from an experienced Flying Fish sailing instructor.
- Lifejackets and all required safety equipment provided.
- Wet weather clothing available to borrow if required.
- Sail aboard our comfortable training yachts with enclosed bathroom facilities.
- Please bring your own water and snacks.
Before you start
No previous sailing experience is required.
Try Yachting is suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over when accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Before you arrive
- Wear comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes.
- Bring a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Please arrive 10–15 minutes before your session starts.
- See the FAQs below for information about what to bring, weather and seasickness.
What next?
- If you've caught the sailing bug, continue your journey with a Start Yachting Weekend and begin learning the fundamentals of sailing.
- Or immerse yourself in our RYA Competent Crew – 5 Days course and develop the practical skills to become a confident cruising sailor.
Faq
- Booking information
- Please review our Terms and Conditions before booking.
- We recommend booking early as places are limited and popular sessions often fill in advance.
- Do I need any previous sailing experience?
- No. Try Yachting is designed specifically for complete beginners.
- It's also a great way for former sailors to get back on the water and refresh their skills.
- What will I learn?
- You'll enjoy a fun, hands-on introduction to sailing on Sydney Harbour.
- You'll learn how to steer the yacht, hoist and trim the sails, handle the sheets and winches, and experience tacking across the wind.
- Learning is practical, relaxed and suitable for all abilities.
- Can I book a private Try Yachting session?
- Yes — private sessions are available for up to 10 people.
- Perfect for families, friends, birthdays, celebrations and corporate groups.
- A private three-hour Try Yachting experience costs A$1,490 per yacht.
- Please enquire here to arrange your private session.
- 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 any concerns about mobility or physical limitations, please contact us for advice.
- What if I get seasick?
- Most people do not experience seasickness because we sail mainly in the sheltered waters of Sydney Harbour.
- If you're prone to motion sickness, consider taking preventative medication beforehand. Your pharmacist can recommend suitable options.
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- Try Yachting operates in a wide range of conditions.
- We only shorten, delay or reschedule sessions if the weather becomes unsuitable or unsafe.
- What type of yacht will we sail on?
- You'll sail aboard one of our modern Beneteau First 40.7 training yachts.
- These comfortable yachts provide a stable, enjoyable platform for beginners and feature enclosed bathroom facilities.
- What should I bring?
- Comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes.
- A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Your own water and snacks.
- Wet weather clothing can be borrowed if required.