catamaran sailing courses australia

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Introduction to Sailing Catamaran

This introductory course is designed to provide the basics of how to handle a modern sailing catamaran. Some sailing knowledge is an advantage but the course is also suited to those with no experience. The aim is to provide you with the confidence to handle a catamaran in places such as Sydney Harbour, the Whitsunday Islands, Pittwater or to take possession of your new Multihull.

Staying on board overnight is available if you want to.  There is a small fee involved to cover our expenses.  Please contact us.

The 2 day course provides practical on-water tuition covering the basics you need to know to handle a cat of this size in various conditions. The course covers key skills as outlined below.

Course Format:

2 x 6 hour lessons (plus lunch break), in a small group of up to 5 participants. Couples encouraged! Tuition conducted on Seawind 1000. What’s included:

• Safety and safety equipment
• Basic use of Chartplotter and instruments
• Start and stop engines, select gears and manoeuvre under power
• Safe anchoring techniques
• Sail handling, rope work and knots
• Setting the sails, safe use of winches
• How to reef, when to do so (strong weather)
• Steering under sail and sail trim
• Points of sailing, upwind sailing, tacking
• Downwind sailing, gybing
• Basic right of way rules
• Introduction to lateral, cardinal, isolated danger and special marks

What to Bring/Wear:

• Non-marking joggers or boat shoes
• Casual and comfortable clothing for the predicted weather
• Sun hat, sun glasses & sun screen
• Gloves (optional)
• Waterproof Jacket
• Gear for overnight if staying on board

We concentrate on specific skills required for day sailing, anchoring overnight and motoring.

A Liquid Edge Sailing School certificate of Attainment is issued, which is suitable for Charter Companies in Australia. We are an approved International Yacht Training (IYT) School. All training completed on the water. All training contributes to sea time hours if you are maintaining a log book. IYT Log Books available.

Check Dates and Prices

By Phone: 0410088028 By email: [email protected]

Student NOS. – why so important?

At Liquid Edge, we love teaching and want the best outcome for our students. All classes are conducted a max of 5 students.  This gives students more time learning each task. Our instructors all agree these numbers simply makes sense!

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RYA Sailing courses we offer

Stepping into the world of sailing for the first time is exciting and exhilarating. The courses in the RYA Yachtmaster training scheme will help you learn to sail and build confidence, become a useful crew member and even learn how to skipper a sailing yacht and manage it’s crew.

Most courses can be taken either on your own or with friends and family, including children provided they meet our minimum age recommendations. There are also flexible options allowing you to do the course in one go or split over several days or weekends.

Our sail cruising courses can also help you progress to the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Certificates of Competence which are recognised by maritime authorities worldwide and can be commercially endorsed for professional skippers and crew.

So whether you’re new to boat ownership, want to charter a yacht on holiday, or to venture further offshore – there’s an RYA course for every level.

Coral Sea Marina to Percy Island

RYA Coastal Skipper Course: Coral Sea Marina to Percy Island

7 days + 7 night

Percy Island is part of the Northumberland group, 70 nautical miles south-east of Mackay, the Percy Isles are a stunningly beautiful place of shimmering beaches and wooded hilltops - a Robinson Crusoe island rising from the indigo depths of the Coral Sea.

RYA Start Yachting

RYA Start Yachting - Whitsundays

2 days + 1 night

This course provides a short introduction to sail cruising for novices. By the end of the course you will have experienced steering a yacht, sail handling, ropework and be aware of safety on board.

RYA Competent Crew Course

RYA Competent Crew Course - Whitsundays

5 days + 5 nights

This is for beginners and those who would like to become active crew members rather than just passengers. By the end of the course you should be able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout, row a dinghy and assist in all the day to day routines.

RYA Dayskipper

RYA Dayskipper - Whitsundays

The RYA day skipper practical is for aspiring skippers with some yachting experience and basic navigation and sailing skills.

All RYA Courses

RYA Training (internationally recognised)

Whether you have never been on a yacht, or you just want to learn a bit more, we offer professionally run courses which will give you internationally recognised qualifications.

If you are planning to charter locally or internationally, we can offer courses which will give you the knowledge and ability to make it safe and enjoyable, as well as the certificate to present to the charter company.

Our practical courses are run on “Mohawk” a Bennetau 40.7, which is ideal for training in a safe and comfortable environment. Our training ground is the Whitsunday region in Queensland. All courses are run from our base at Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach.

Your instructors are RYA qualified and will ensure your learning experience is fun, and exciting. We adapt the courses to suit all learning styles and personal preferences. The accommodation and food will set the ideal learning environment to ensure that you have a fantastic week with us.

RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship

RYA START YACHTING COURSE

RYA Coastal Skipper- Coral Sea Marina to Percy Island

RYA COMPETENT CREW COURSE

RYA DAYSKIPPER PRACTICAL COURSE

RYA COASTAL SKIPPER PRACTICAL COURSE

RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course | on-Line

RYA COASTAL SKIPPER / YACHTMASTER OFFSHORE THEORY COURSE | ON-LINE

RYA YACHTMASTER PREP / EXAM

SEA SAFETY AND SURVIVAL

ICC COURSE AND ASSESSMENT

RYA DIESEL ENGINE COURSE

MARINE RADIO LICENCE and EXAM( HF & VHF )

Boat handling course

Ladies only sailing course- learn to crew, skipper or just have fun!

Maritime news.

Last weeks 7 day Coastal Skipper course to Percy Island. It took 4 days to get there and 2 days to get back. In my view Percy Island is a hidden paradise and certainly a bucket list item. N

https://www.clipperroundtheworld.com/race/standings

One of our students extraordinaire; Jayden Pendleton went bareboating in Greece this year. Jayden did his RYA Dayskipper course last year as welll as his ICC. This allowed him to charter a boat in the Mediterranean. Obviously the Mainstay Sailing t-shirt made the journey as well ! This too could be you - contact us for more info.

Known to be one of the toughest endurance challenges on the planet, the Clipper Race welcomes people from diverse walks of life from all around the world to become ocean racing sailors. Battling through the most extreme conditions, and facing whatever Mother Nature throws their way, it is a true test of determination to the finish line. Crew can either take on the challenge of the full 40,000nm circumnavigation or choose one or multiple legs of the epic adventure. Airlie Beach will feature on the fourth stage of the event's circumnavigation which starts from Portsmouth, UK on 3 September 2023. After visiting Puerto Sherry, Spain, Punta Del Este, Uruguay and Cape Town, South Africa, the fleet will head to Australia. Making their first stop in Fremantle, teams will then travel to Newcastle, New South Wales before heading upwards to make their final Australian stop in Airlie Beach. Here they will enjoy the crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery of The Whitsunday Islands and enjoy the rest and recuperation before the next Leg begins. Joscelyn O'Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Host Port, Coral Sea Marina Resort said "Following the positive economic impact of its previous visits, we are delighted to once again be Host Port for the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. Having the opportunity to further promote our region as a leading sailing destination in the Southern Hemisphere is one which we couldn't pass up. "This will be the fourth time the Clipper Race fleet has been welcomed to Coral Sea Marina Resort and the team here are very much looking forward to the buzz the race fleet creates at the marina and throughout Airlie Beach during their stay. "We will be working closely with the Clipper Race team to find ways to engage the community with the race and make this another memorable stopover for the race crews and their supporters."

Radio 101 - next Tuesday!

Mainstay Sailing, through its owners, directors and all its staff will deliver the highest level of training and services to its customers and associates. We will keep up to date with the latest available equipment and technology, and share the information and knowledge to improve the enjoyment and safety in sailing, cruising and in boating in general. We will do our best to make it fun and interesting and stimulate a spirit of adventure in the process. We will tailor our teaching style and methods to cater for persons of all abilities and learning styles.

TERENCE SMITH

PRINCIPAL & CHIEF INSTRUCTOR

The Royal Yachting Association is the national body for dinghy, yacht and motor cruising, all forms of sail racing, RIBs and sports boats, windsurfing and personal watercraft and a leading representative for inland waterways cruising. ‍ Our internationally renowned training schemes steer 250,000 yacht sailors, power boaters, small craft leisure boaters, windsurfers and canal boaters towards confident and successful boating every year. ‍ So whether your end goal is to spend more quality down time on the water, to travel, to compete, to work, or to advance your career; there’s a course for you.

Our escapades bring you back to the fundamentals of life. Spending a few days on a boat brings out the best in human nature. Living and working together we talk a lot, laugh a lot, and put the world to rights. It is more than an escape from the complexity of life ashore; the fresh air, natural adrenalin and outdoor activity give your body a good physical detox too.

We have the knowledge and skills to safely deliver your boat to its new port. We respect the trust owners place on us. Years of blue water sailing experience has ensured that careful preparation, regular watch keeping and making sure the boat is safe at all times is essential for the safety of the people on board and the yacht. At the same time we can provide tuition for you and your crew during the planning of the passage and the actual delivery itself. Extra crew can be arranged if required.There are four stages to a delivery exercise – preparation, leaving port, passage making and arrival with debrief

The ultimate getaway for 2! Yacht charters and sailing cruises are one of the best ways to experience beauty of the Whitsundays. Choose from romantic overnight yacht charters for two, sailing cruises with meals and drinks, hands-on sailing trips or something with a touch of luxury. Once out on the glittering waves you'll see why we think yacht charters and sailing cruises are such a treat!

Payments are taken prior to course or charter start. We have payments plans to make it easier for you.

LATEST REVIEWS

Tina newton-modlmayr.

"SIMPLY THE BEST"- Teaching; Experience; Food; Sailing; Weather; Crew and companionship. Terence knows how to mix his wealth of sailing and cooking experience with great teaching skills and relaxation, to create a wonderful learning environment. This is all backed up with the amazingly personable Ron on admin!

John Paul Scholes

Outstanding experience.

Day skipper / Competent Crew Course 25-30 January 2021 From the moment Sheree and I arrived, Terence and Ron were friendly, welcoming, funny and encouraging. Terence’s vast experience and knowledge was reassuring, and his advice, tips and tricks really helped throughout the course. The food was above and beyond expectations. We all left wanting to replicate the menu and flavours that Terence seemed to produce effortlessly. Mohawk is a handsome boat and very comfortable to live and sail in. Under the expert guidance of Terence, his calm, steady manner, sage advice and humour relaxed our nerves and created a great learning environment. I can think of no better place to learn to sail than the Whitsundays, it was simply stunning. I highly recommend Mainstay Sailing. Terence and Ron are not just teaching people to sail, they are creating community through a shared love of sailing and the sea. I look forward to dropping by again to further my experience and am sure will stay in contact with fellow course crew mates; Fred and Catrin. We were a happy crew and became friends through shared experience. ‘If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the people to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea’ - The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Bruno Ribeiro Profeta

An amazing experience with amazing people.

Terence (the instructor) and Ron were just the Men. Terence is a very dedicated, attentive, patient and super experienced Mentor. I did my RYA Competent Crew course with him in January 2021, and it was a blast. It was amazing to discover many different places I had never been to on the Whitsundays, sail under a storm, learn lots and lots of theory and practice, eat Terence's amazing food (that paella....!) and listen to everyone's stories. What an inspiring trip with only great people! I'm strongly thinking about keeping up with the courses to become a proper Sailor. It's definitely a must for everyone who is considering learning about the Sea and all the amazing things it brings with it. These guys have you.

James Hackney

Great sailing, great company, great food.

I completed my Coastal Skipper course with Terrence during August 2020. Whilst the world is in uncertain times, Terrence remained flexible around the border restrictions and dates of the course. When we made it up to QLD, Terrence made us feel very welcome and comfortable in his presence. This carried on through the week where the sailing was awesome, food was even better and the whole experience was 10/10. As an extremely experienced instructor Terrence shared a lot of insights into what blue water cruising is really about, and how we should look to make preparations above and beyond the RYA syllabus. I will be keeping my eye peeled for more opportunities to do some mile builders with Terrence in the near future.Thanks for an awesome week!

Coral Sea Marina Berth D30 + D31 Shingley Drive Airlie Beach QLD 4802 AUSTRALIA

Postal address PO Box 890 Cannonvale QLD 4802 AUSTRALIA

Lat: 20° 16′ South Long: 148° 43′  East

Phone: +61 434 790 402‬

© Mainstay Sailing | all rights reserved

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RYA Competent Crew Course – Catamaran

Rya competent crew - catamaran.

Perfect for beginners, this course offers a supportive and immersive learning environment amidst Queensland's stunning coastal landscapes. Unlock the door to sailing mastery with the RYA Competent Crew course. Whether you're based in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, or exploring the pristine waters of Moreton Bay, this comprehensive program is your ticket to becoming a skilled and confident crew member.    Looking for Monohull look here? Click Here

SOLD OUT CATAMARAN MARCH 9-10 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

SOLD OUT CATAMARAN MARCH 16-17 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN MARCH 18-22 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN MARCH 25-29 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

WEEKEND CATAMARAN APRIL 6-7 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN APRIL 8-12 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN APRIL 22-26 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN MAY 6-10 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

WEEKEND CATAMARAN MAY 11-12 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN MAY 20-24 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

WEEKEND CATAMARAN MAY 25-26 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN JUNE 3-7 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

WEEKEND CATAMARAN JUNE 8-9 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN JUNE 17-21 $ 2295 Newport Marina 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

WEEKEND CATAMARAN JUNE 22-23 $ 895 Newport Marina 2-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

PASSAGE CATAMARAN JUNE 25-30 $ 2295 Newport to Keppel Bay 6-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

PASSAGE CATAMARAN JULY 1-6 $ 2295 Newport to Keppel Bay 6-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

PASSAGE CATAMARAN JULY 2-7 $ 2295 Keppel to Whitsunday 6-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN AUGUST 5-9 $ 2295 Whitsundays 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN AUGUST 12-16 $ 2295 Whitsundays 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN AUGUST 26-30 $ 2295 Whitsundays 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN SEPTEMBER 2-6 $ 2295 Whitsundays 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

PASSAGE CATAMARAN SEPTEMBER 8-13 $ 2295 Whitsunday to Keppel 6-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

PASSAGE CATAMARAN SEPTEMBER 15-21 $ 2495 Keppel to Newport 7-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN SEP 30 - OCT 4 $ 2295 Newport 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN OCTOBER 14-18 $ 2295 Newport 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN OCT 28 - NOV 1 $ 2295 Newport 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

CATAMARAN NOVEMBER 11-18 $ 2295 Newport 5-Day Beginner Book Now Discount w/2 or more

Select your CATAMARAN course and then choose your START DATE. 

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COURSE SYLLABUS

The Competent Crew course introduces the complete beginner to cruising and teaches personal safety, seamanship and helmsmanship to the level required to be a useful member of crew of a cruising yacht.

• Knowledge of sea terms and parts of a boat, her rigging and sails
• Sail Handling
• Fire precautions and fighting
• Personal safety equipment
• Man overboard
• Emergency equipment
• Manners and customs
• Rules of the road
• Meteorology
• Seasickness
• Helmsmanship and sailing

Living onboard throughout the course, each night is spent in a new place, allowing you to experience the delights of a real cruise. You will visit many of the quiet bays, anchorages and yacht harbour’s of Moreton Bay, Southeast corner of Queensland or the Whitsundays (depending on chosen course) and in the evenings there is time to relax and reflect on the events of the day.

Click image below to download the RYA Competent Crew course syllabus:

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COURSE DETAILS

Minimum Age: The recommended minimum age for this course is 12-years Course Format: On the water in a catamaran. Prerequisites: None. Although we do recommend completing the RYA Essentials - Navigation and Seamanship (online) course prior to this course.

By the end of the RYA Competent Crew course the successful Competent Crew will have sufficient knowledge and skill to be a useful and able crew member, and will be issued with the RYA Competent Crew certificate of course completion.

PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS

The RYA Competent Crew course is the perfect learn to sail course aimed for complete beginners who want to aim for more than the two day  RYA Start Yachting  course. It’s best for those who have spent very limited time or no time on sailing vessels, but want to be able to go sailing as a competent member of the crew onboard.

The course is planned to give you as much fun and enjoyment as possible, as you adventure and learn the fundamentals of cruising yachts. While you cruise you will learn about safety at sea and will be given lots of opportunities to master the seamanship skills of steering, changing sails, reefing and tying the essential knots as well as whats is like to live on a yacht for an extended period.

SLEEPING & EATING

Accommodation:  Accommodation is on-board our yachts as you spend time out sailing the beautiful locations that we frequent.  You have the option of Shared Bunk, Single Bunk, or Own Cabin.  

Food and Dietary:  Food is included in the price of the course, aside from one evening meal ashore at a local yacht club or restaurant. We will accommodate your dietary preferences including gluten free, vegan/vegetarian, lactose free, etc. You will receive a link to nominate your dietary preferences shortly after booking in for the course.

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Sailing School Yachts and Catamarans

Learn to sail yachts through our sailing school in Sydney Harbour. We offer yacht sailing courses including Introduction to Sail, Competent Crew, and Bare Boat charter training. For those a little more adventurous, we can also offer offshore racing programs such as Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Hamilton Island Race week, and other fun sailing events.

Bare Boat Course

Learn how to Sail your own yacht, or a charter yacht with confidence. Thinking about sailing a yacht on beautiful Sydney Harbour, Pittwater or the magical Whitsundays? Perhaps the Mediterranean? read more

Yacht Crewing and Racing

Eastcoast Sailing has an exciting array of sailing and racing options. These range from (seriously!) fun Hamilton Island Race Week, Sydney Harbour yacht racing series, read more .

Learn to Sail Yachts

Our Introduction to Sail program involves an exciting day of sailing lessons out on Sydney Harbour learning the basics of sail handling and steering. No prior sailing experience is required. read more

Competent Crew Course

Build on your sailing skills and gain your certificate of competency so that you can enjoy confidently sailing and cruising with family and friends. read more

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Do i need any sailing experience.

No! Our Learn to Sail course caters for the absolute novice.

What is included in the price?

All courses have expert tuition by qualified instructors, wet weather jackets, comprehensive training notes, Internationally recognised Yachting Australia Courses and Certificate, and great fun! Courses are run on yachts on beautiful Sydney Harbour.

How can I continue to learn?

We have a range of Learn to Sail courses, that provide progressive Sailing and Skills development. Starting from fundamentals of Learn to Sail, through to Competent Crew, Competent Skipper, and Bare Boat Course. For the advanced or those seeking some thrills, we can arrange crewing on yachts for racing events around Sydney and Australia.

How do our courses compare to other schools?

Learn to Sail

• One full day out on the water.
• Comprehensive Course notes are provided.
• Lunch stop at beautiful locations like Watson’s Bay where you can grab fish and chips from Doyles, the best seafood in Sydney!
• Professional, experienced, friendly tuition from qualified instructors.
• Learning to sail in a relaxed, enjoyable environment with no pressure.
• Comfortable training vessel with room to move. We have access to several yachts and catamarans.
• Wet weather jackets provided.
• Small class size with 3 – 4 students per vessel.

Competent Crew / Skipper

• Two or Four full days on the water. You can choose how far you wish to progress.
• Your training can help you charter your own vessel in Australia and abroad.
• Comprehensive course book and log book are provided.
• Sailing tuition in a relaxed, enjoyable environment with no pressure. Learn at your own pace.
• Comfortable training vessel with room to move.

How come other schools have class room sessions?

Our Learn to Sail courses are one full day out on the water so you get a real feeling for what sailing is all about. If you love sailing and choose to do more, our Competent Crew courses are three full days so you get the most out of learning hands on and being out on the water.

We believe the best experience comes from being hands on sailing the yacht. All teaching is done on board with the instructor up to and including Competent Crew. Who wants to be stuck in a classroom for sailing lessons?

Do you still go sailing in bad weather?

We make decisions to continue to sail based on safety and comfort. Classes will be rescheduled based on excessive rain and wind strength, storm warnings, and other abnormal conditions. We want you to love sailing as much as we do! Rain is not a sole reason for rescheduling or cancelling classes and jackets are provided.

What course do I need to Charter a Bare Boat?

Most bare boat Yacht Charter companies (such as in the Whitsundays) strongly prefer some skippering experience /training. Our Bare Boat Sailing Course will provide you with the skills, confidence and a certitication of competancy to assist your Charter.

© Eastcoast Sailing | 2018 - 2023. All Rights Reserved

FAST TRACK RYA YACHTMASTER

Course dates:, booking a course:, as keelboat syllabus, rya theory syllabus, rya practical syllabus, fast track rya yachtmaster program.

Listed here are the steps from beginner to RYA Yachtmaster. You can enter at any level and our sailing advisors are here to advise where to start depending on your knowledge level and experience.

The RYA Yachtmaster® Certificate of Competence is often the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving your experience and competence as a skipper.

There are a number of RYA navigation courses that will help you prepare for your exam. Many RYA Yachtmaster candidates also choose to book themselves into an RYA training centre for some specialised exam preparation training, but this is not compulsory.

Program breakdown (in the above image).

This Program includes the following courses from:

The australian sailing as – keelboat program & the royal yachting association (rya) – yacht training program.

Certificates of Competence Include:

• International Certificate of Competence 
• RYA  Yachtmaster Coastal
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean

Option 1 – Keelboat courses on our J24 Yachts (or go to Option 2 with the RYA 5 day Competent Crew on larger yachts)

Australian Sailing Keelboat Program

The knowledge to skipper and navigate your own Keelboat by day on sheltered waters

Prices when booked as a Program

Start Crewing

• 4 x 3-hour practical lesson
• 1 x theory lesson and social evening
• Lessons every day

Start Helming

• 4 x 3-hour practical lessons or 2 days

Keelboat Start Skippering

• 2 x 6 hour practical days
• 1 x Theory lesson and social evening
• Best do just before your 5-day practical Coastal Skipper

On our J24’s you will have hands-on instruction on helming (steering the boat), main sheet (controlling the power of the boat), winches (turning the boat through tacks and gybes etc) and the foredeck. After each lesson is your most important part of the day is the debriefing session with your crew and instructor at the Deck bar at the CYCA! (Home of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race). 

The sailing lessons on the J24’s are available every day except Thursdays and you can choose your lesson times. Session times are 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm and weekend sessions extend to 4 pm to 7 pm during daylight saving. As we have several training yachts, booking in is really easy and flexible – all you need to do is give us a call. You can even do 2 lessons in one day if you wish.

RYA Competent Crew Practical  5 Day Practical (5 Days and 4 Nights onboard)

•  All Provisions on board inclusive
• $2350 on Monohull Beneteau 38.1
• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran  1170
• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran 1260

RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Shorebased theory available online or virtually $390

Then the RYA Day Skipper Certifications: 

RYA  Day Skipper Shorebased Theory

• 40 hours Elearning plus 4 virtual evenings with a RYA Yacht Master Instructor 

Or Online (40 hours + exams) in your own time $750 – Course materials posted

RYA Day Skipper Practical   5 Day Practical (5 Days and 4 Nights onboard)

• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran 1170

It is recommended to complete the theory prior to the practical.

On successful completion of the RYA Day Skipper Practical, you can automatically apply to the RYA for the  ICC International Certificate of Competence  This is required to skipper your own yacht or hire a yacht or powerboat in over 140 countries. The certification is for sailing up to 24m .

Then RYA Yacht Master Certificate of Competence –  Enable the skipper to navigate and skipper on any coastal passage.

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory

• 40 hours eLearning and 6 virtual evening sessions with an RYA Yacht Master Instructor

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical  5 days and 4 nights onboard

• $2350 on monohull Beneteau 38.1

Marine Radio Licence (LROCP)

• Online theory and 1 x evening and practical course
• VHF, HF and DSC
• $450 plus $89 licence fee

Australian Sailing Safety and Sea Survival

• eLearning & Practical
• Includes flare and pool session

Optional Courses 

Radar Course

Diesel Course

• 1-day course

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Course

• 40 hours plus exam

RYA Exams and Commercial endorsement for Australia and International.

Included & benefits

• Free unlimited 3-hour practice sails on a standby basis for 4 weeks after Keelboat Courses
• 1 x 3 hour private lesson on our J24 (normally $450)
• Course packs for all RYA virtual and online courses
• Free use of wet weather gear for Keelboat Courses
• Free introduction to boat owners as crew to race or mile builders/deliveries after SSSC is completed
• PSS is located in the CYCA and has operated from this base for over 40 years.
• Opportunities for crewing are unlimited.
• Starting on smaller yachts like our J24s and progressing to our bigger yachts provides the best outcome in sailing skills.
• Flexible course dates – can be altered with the required minimum notice as per our booking conditions
• Fast track – RYA Yachtmaster program completed in 3 months if requested

Not included:

Exam for RYA Yacht Master Offshore Certificate of Competence

• The exam is independent and approximately $500 is paid directly to the RYA
• PSS registration, Insurance, logbook and certificate fees $150
• Textbooks (if required) approximately $230

Practice Sails 

Unlimited and available on a standby basis for 6 weeks on our J24 Yachts.

ICC Assessment

ICC assessment cost is included in the 5 day practical assessment.

On successful completion of the RYA Day Skipper practical, ask about the ICC International Certificate of Competence. During the RYA Day skipper practical course you will be assessed for your theory, sailing and seamanship skills. This is a pass or fail and a pass is the minimum requirement for the ICC.

Upcoming Featured Courses  

RYA Powerboat Level II Join the course by using our Contact Us form

SAILING ADVENTURES

MONOHULL 24-30 Aug – S/V Swansong – Brisbane to Airlie 2-8 Sept – Airlie to Brisbane (able to complete RYA Coastal Skipper)

RYA Competent Crew &  RYA Day Skipper 5-Day, Brisbane, live-aboard RYA courses

Cost: from $2,100 (accommodation and onboard meals included)

1-day , Introduction to Sail – join a group and experience the ropes!

Cost: from $360/person

To learn more and book, call us on (07) 3396 4100 or email [email protected]

Southern cross yachting – a premier sail training centre.

Brief Overview

Southern Cross Yachting is Australia’s original, accredited RYA sail training centre, established in 1996. We offer one-day, weekend and five-day sailing courses, private tuition on clients’ sail and power boats, bareboat charter preparation courses and offshore mile builders along the southeast Queensland coast.

Our shore-based theory courses are offered to build navigation, safety and maintenance skills for sail and power boat operators. These include classroom and online navigation, sailing lessons, marine radio, safety & sea survival, diesel engine, radar and yacht maintenance are some of the topics covered in our shore-based theory courses. Come join us for some fun on the water!

Our RYA training centre office is located at East Coast Marina in Wynnum-Manly, QLD.

Southern Cross Yachting provides a one-stop shop for all of your yacht training needs! We’ll be happy to help you get started on your next great adventure!

Get in Touch Today!

Interested in taking sailing lessons? Contact Southern Cross Yachting and learn a new skill or brush up on old ones. Call us at 07 3396 4100 .

About Our Courses – For any level

Looking for a new challenge? Or, brushing up on existing yacht skills? With something for everyone, there’s sure to be a course that’s perfect for you. Southern Cross Yachting offers a variety of courses to help you get started. From beginner to advanced levels, our sailing school is the best choice around.

Our most popular courses include an introduction to yacht sailing covering the basics of handling a yacht and sails; a snippet of navigation, where you’ll observe how to chart a course and navigate safely as well as essential skills like tying knots and anchoring. We also have more specialized courses like advanced navigation, meteorology, and marine engines, all leading to the highly skilled Yachtmaster qualification.

Sailing is one of the most freeing and exhilarating experiences you can have on the water, and with our beginner sailing courses, it’s easier than ever to learn the basics and get started. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing around the world or just want to enjoy some time on the water, our sailing lessons will give you the skills and confidence you need to make your dreams a reality.  From learning how to steer a yacht to understanding boat safety, our beginner courses cover everything you need to get started.  Carried out over a single day, weekend or 5-day block, each course requires no prior knowledge or experience.

Intermediate

Let’s set sail! Our range of intermediate courses are for those with crewing confidence who are ready to take their skills to the next level.  Students can use their existing sea time to jump up to the next level, RYA Day Skipper as well as international qualifications which are used to charter yachts.  RYA qualifications and certifications are often used to gain discounts by many marine insurers. Complete your course in Manly or the Whitsundays. We guarantee you’ll have a blast and come away feeling confident and ready to take on the world (or at least the open seas). So what are you waiting for? Set sail today!

Sail away to your next adventure with our range of advanced sailing courses! Choose between skippering a yacht across the pristine coastal waters or taking an intensive course covering the more advanced coastal techniques including position fixing, course shaping and more. Advanced sailors can prep and take a Yachtmaster exam to test their skippering ability or partake in an RYA training centre Coastal Skipper course, each over a five-day block.

For those who have a passion for the open waters, take on the fast-track sailing lessons courses. These courses will have you sailing and navigating the seas in no time. Our bespoke Yachtmaster fast track course is designed to transform a novice sailor into an internationally recognised RYA Yachtmaster.  Please note, the fast track is based around an individual’s prior experience and knowledge and time frames may differ.

Beginner Learn to Sail

Intermediate Learn to Skipper

Advanced Yachtmaster

Charter Sailing Adventures

Specialty Courses Personal Training

Theory Courses Online or Classroom

Choose a Southern Cross Yacht Charter For a Perfect Day Away

Looking for a unique way to celebrate a special occasion? Or maybe you’re just looking for a fun and different way to spend a day with friends or family.  Either way, a yacht charter from Southern Cross Yachting is the perfect solution.  We offer a variety of charters that can take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the Moreton Bay Region.

Best of all, you can leave your devices at home and enjoy the ocean like never before.  Whether you’re looking for a special family outing or a corporate and team-building experience, our yacht charters will be fun & educational for everyone.  So what are you waiting for?  Contact us today and let us show you how much fun sailing can be!

Choose Our Sail Training Centre

When it comes to planning your next yachting adventure, there’s no better company to choose than Southern Cross Yachting.  We have a fleet of beautiful boats that are perfect for any occasion, and our experienced staff will make sure your trip is hassle-free. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled group vacation whilst educating yourself, license requirements or lower your private yacht insurances, we’ve got you covered.

Introduction to Sailing (1-day)

Wynnum-Manly, Brisbane, QLD

Either saturday or sunday every 2 weeks.

This popular, 1-day course provides an introduction to sail cruising for novices.  By the end of the course you will have experienced steering a yacht, sail handling, ropework and be aware of safety onboard.  

Bareboat Charter

This one-day, nil experience required course will have you on your way to the most enjoyable sailing holiday imaginable.  You will gain knowledge to safely and competently charter your own desired yacht by providing practice picking up moorings, planning your trip, advice on what to expect and what to pack and take.

Sailing Adventures and Mile Building Passages

East coast of australia.

These voyages are ideal for completing qualifying passages for Yachtmaster exams or for simply gaining experience offshore with an experienced instructor.

Experienced

There’s no better place to start sailing than with Southern Cross Yachting. Established in 1996, we’re Australia’s original international RYA training centre. With over twenty years of experience, you know you’re in good hands.

For over 25 years, Southern Cross Yachting has been the trusted provider of marine training for students from all over the world. With over 10,000 satisfied customers, we’ve helped people of all ages and experience levels gain the skills and confidence they need to enjoy the open water.

Industry Recognised

Southern Cross Yachting is proud to work closely with some of the best marine industry peers in the business. We believe that by collaborating with charter companies, brokerages and experts, we can provide our clients with the best possible experience.

Book A Sailing Course With Us Today!

Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced sailor looking to brush up on your sail boat training skills, Southern Cross Yachting has a course for you. Or if you’re looking to sail away with loved ones for the day, call us at 07 3396 4100 or use the contact page .

Massive thank you to Jamie and all the staff and other instructors at Southern Cross Yachting! 10/10 experience from booking to sailing to instruction to food whilst onboard. Absolutely one of the best things I’ve ever done and now I’m addicted to sailing!

A great place to learn all things about sailing, experienced Captains who are only to happy to answer any and all questions, a great experience,

Well organized with a wonderful team and instructors. Completed my Comp Crew and looking forward to doing the Day skipper next.

We were lucky enough to spend a day with Jamie on Moreton bay and can’t speak highly enough about it. Three of us with varied previous experience of sailing joined with a father and son to share in a day of learning the ropes. The day was tailored to our varied needs and at all times we were able to ask questions and glean experience from Jamie’s wealth of knowledge. We would highly recommend signing up for a course if you’re interested in getting back on the water after a hiatus. Thanks so much guys! It was a priceless day!

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Find a Course

Australian Sailing offers a range of courses to cater for all levels.

To find a course that is right for you, select a category below.

Fast Track to Cruising® Courses

• Private Sailing Courses
• Fast Track to Monohull Cruising
• Learn to Sail Certification Courses
• Fast Track to Sailing
• Family Learn to Sail Programs
• Sailing Lessons and Sailing Rides
• Small Sailboat Cruising Course
• Online Learn to Sail Course
• Docking Refresher Course on a Catamaran or Monohull
• Live Aboard Cruising Courses
• Bareboat Charter Courses
• Catamaran Cruising Courses
• IPC Prep With Cruising Certification & Catamaran Endorsement
• Catamaran Endorsement & Refresher
• Boat Handling & Docking
• Women-Only Sailing Programs
• Navigation Courses
• Performance Sailing Courses
• Fast Track to Sailboat Racing Courses
• Performance Racing Clinics
• Coastal Passage Making Courses
• Offshore Passage Making Courses
• Celestial Navigation Courses
• Powerboat Courses
• Sailing Certifications
• Top 10 Tips for Learning How to Sail
• Safety and Comfort Aboard
• Sails & Sail Trim
• Steering and Maneuvering
• Handling Spinnakers
• Engine Maintenance
• Become an Instructor
• How to Choose a Sailing School
• Yacht Lease Management

Fast Track to Cruising® Courses — OSS 101/103/104/114

Our most popular cruising certification course.

When Offshore Sailing School developed the course curriculum and registered the name Fast Track to Cruising® in 2006, it set the stage for the most comprehensive and successful catamaran sailing course in the country. Don’t be fooled by copy-cats who claim to teach the same course. There is only one program – the Fast Track to Cruising® Course taught by Offshore Sailing School’s professional instructors – that truly gives you the knowledge, skills and confidence to handle sailboats up to 50’ in just about any weather, without hired captain or professional crew.

Enroll Today! 888-454-7015 or 239-454-1700 [email protected]

Couch to Captain’s Chair in One Week

Whether you have no sailing experience, have sailed small sailboats, or are returning to sailing after a long hiatus, this in-depth sailing course is perfect for you. The Offshore Sailing School Fast Track to Cruising® Course has no prerequisites. You can focus on catamaran sailing skills or monohull sailing skills. When you enroll you will receive US Sailing textbooks that cover what is asked on the certification tests.

Advanced Preparation to Help You Speed Through the Cruising for Beginners Course

When you read the books in advance, you will be well-prepared for our comprehensive course curriculum, which includes classroom training and hands-on keelboat sailing lessons, followed by a full course of monohull or catamaran sailing lessons. You learn from professional, experienced instructors who receive accolades from their students on course evaluations. See the “What You Learn” tab below for more details.

We had so many “AH HA” moments. The Fast Track to Cruising Course was amazing!! Our instructor was fantastic. We are both educators and appreciated his attentiveness to making sure we understood the concepts and skills we achieved. The 2 days on the Colgate definitely prepared us for the bigger boat, which by the end of the week we were very comfortable taking out by ourselves. Even with 8 years of sailing we couldn’t imagine just coming and chartering a big boat without taking this class first! Pamela and Dan Cronin – Pierre, South Dakota Read more testimonials here

Start Cruising Now!

888-454-7015 or 239-454-1700 [email protected]

Learn on a catamaran or monohull.

The first two days of your Fast Track to Cruising® sailing lessons are on a Colgate 26 in OSS 101– a high-performance open-cockpit keelboat daysailer used by the US Naval and Coast Guard Academies for training plebes and cadets. Then you board one of our cruising boats – a 40′ to 48′ catamaran or a 43′ to 50′ monohull for OSS 103/104 – and learn to handle the same boats you will soon charter in the Caribbean or elsewhere around the world!

Exclusive Sailing School for The Moorings

Offshore Sailing School has been the exclusive sailing school for The Moorings, the most prominent charter company in the world, for over 40 years. Our standard monohull for Bareboat Cruising Certification in the BVI is a Moorings 50.4 , fifty feet of sheer fun that gives you the confidence to charter any size boat anywhere! Offshore Sailing School cruising course graduates are also “Captains” in The Mooring’s preferred charter program and get charter discounts after completing this monohull or catamaran sailing course. Just ask the two largest charter companies in the world – The Moorings and Sunsail – how much they value our more than 8000 recent graduates of the Offshore Sailing School Fast Track to Cruising® course.

“I live in Colorado with very little sailing experience over the years since college. I’m now 61. When I told The Moorings about my “meager experience,” they seemed to be far more interested that I had completed the Fast Track to Cruising Course with Offshore. They considered that more relevant than a logbook full of experience. I was deemed qualified to bareboat charter a 43’ Beneteau.” John Klebba – Lakewood, CO Read more testimonials here

International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) for Chartering Overseas

If you plan to charter in Europe or other areas overseas, you may be required to show your certification certificates and an International Proficiency Certificate. US Sailing, the governing body of sailing in the United States, will issue this certificate for a nominal fee for U.S. citizens who have achieved US Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification. For details, view the IPC page on US Sailing’s website or go to https://www.ussailing.org and search IPC.

The Ultimate Learning Vacation

“I learned a lot and feel confident in my sailing. The course also encouraged teamwork. My husband and I did this trip as an anniversary gift and Christmas gift. I was very pleased with the course and our working together. It was a good marriage/teambuilding experience.” Kim Sissell – Mandeville, LA Read more testimonials here 

A Note About Night Sailing

Most charter agencies do not allow night sailing and require that you are anchored, docked or on a mooring before sunset. Night sailing is not covered in this course, but is covered in our Coastal Passage Making (OSS 106) courses, the next step in your learning process.

Request a Quote Now! 888-454-7015 or 239-454-1700 [email protected]

Sailing – good for you. good for the world®.

The Fast Track to Cruising® Course prepares you for big boat ownership and charter cruising on your own, without a professional captain and crew aboard (called Bareboat Cruising by charter companies). Depending on weather conditions and the learning pace of all in your class (maximum four per boat per instructor unless you opt for a Private Family Course), the following knowledge and skills are learned and practiced in your catamaran sailing lessons.

• What You Learn
• What's Included
• Course Schedules
• Where to Learn
• Testimonials

Our Fast Track® sailing courses prepare you for charter cruising, without professional captain and crew aboard (called Bareboat Cruising by charter companies). You start with the Learn to Sail course and continue with the Bareboat Charter Cruising Course format where you stay ashore at night, or the Live Aboard Cruising format (see both below). Depending on weather conditions and the learning pace of all in your class (maximum four per boat per instructor unless you opt for a Private Family Course), the following knowledge and skills are learned and practiced.

Learn to Sail Course – First Two Days

• Nautical terminology
• Rigging and sails
• Getting underway
• Proper winch techniques
• Finding wind direction
• Points of sailing
• Tacking and jibing
• Wind and sail interaction
• Maneuvering in close quarters
• Wind pressure and lift
• Heeling and stability
• Apparent wind
• Wind shifts
• Sailing wing and wing
• Stopping and starting under sail, without an engine
• Sailing backwards, no engine
• Rudderless sailing
• Sail trim and sail shape
• Boat balance
• Mooring and anchoring
• Docking under sail
• Most used knots
• Right-of-way rules
• Grounding remedies
• Heavy weather techniques
• Reefing sails (reducing sail area)
• Steering with a compass
• Sailing in current
• Weather and lee helm

Bareboat Charter Cruising next 5 days or Live Aboard Cruising next 6 days at resort locations

Bareboat Charter Cruising Course : Sleep at the resort or at home while you learn to sail a catamaran or monohull during the day, a great format for those with accompanying family or friends who are taking the  5-day Learn to Sail  or  Performance Sailing course or no course at all, or for those who prefer the privacy and amenities of a hotel room at night. The Catamaran Bareboat Charter Cruising Course (live ashore throughout the course) is not available in Florida but is available in the British Virgin Islands.

Live Aboard Cruising Course : The Live Aboard Cruising Course is available on catamarans and monohulls in Florida and the British Virgin Islands. You board the boat and live aboard while moving from port to port for 6 days, a unique learning experience that immerses you in the cruising lifestyle, with a classroom session aboard before setting sail each day, sleeping in a private or shared cabin, sharing common space, meal preparation and other tasks with classmates. You do all the cooking and cleaning up, just like you would if you were bareboat chartering. There is no chef and the instructors do not cook your meals. Cooking aboard is part of the learning process.

• Planning a cruise
• Familiarization with boat layout and sail plan
• Operation of engine, stove and head
• Routine engine maintenance
• Fueling techniques
• Use and conservation of battery and charging systems
• Water use and conservation
• Use and location of thru-hull fittings
• Maneuvering under power and sail with emphasis on windage considerations and close quarters
• Big boat docking and anchoring techniques
• Proper and safe handling of halyards and lines
• Proper and safe use of winches
• Apparent wind and sail selection
• Sail shape and trim
• Inter-crew communication when trimming sails, docking and anchoring
• Genoa roller furling use
• Overboard recovery procedures
• Meal preparation aboard (there is no chef)
• Big boat heavy weather and reefing techniques
• Sailing wing and wing on bigger boats
• Use of jennaker if available
• Boom preventer use
• More knots and their applications
• Log procedures
• Piloting techniques including set, drift and leeway calculations
• GPS navigation
• Rules of the Road
• Danger bearings
• Coast Guard requirements
• Courtesy using lights and sound signals
• Use of safety harness
• Emergency tiller use
• Distress signals

If you are learning on a catamaran, your training also includes:

• Multiple scenarios related to wind direction and current while docking and anchoring • Close quarters maneuvering on a catamaran versus a monohull • Windage considerations • Proper docking techniques for catamaran including spring lines and other dock lines

Pre-requisite for the Fast Track to Cruising® Course : No prior sailing experience required

Three Certifications : US Sailing Basic Keelboat, Basic Cruising and Bareboat Cruising are included in your course package (normally a $150 cost). Unless you’d rather not take the certification tests, the US Sailing Basic Keelboat, Basic Cruising and Bareboat Cruising textbooks are sent in advance in addition to our Fast Track to Cruising textbook.

Please visit  Our Locations   for Fast Track to Cruising® Course packages. Rates include everything listed below, vary by season, location, type of boat (monohull or catamaran), and whether you choose a shore-based or live-aboard course. Not included are meals unless otherwise noted, travel and other expenses you may incur.

Resort Locations

At all resort locations, your course includes :

• Learn to Sail and Bareboat Charter Cruising or Live Aboard Cruising Course tuitions
• Three nights accommodations at the resort if choosing the Live Aboard Cruising course
• 7 or 8 nights accommodations if choosing the Bareboat Charter Cruising Course
• Daily per person resort fee covering all amenities, WiFi and other services at the resort
• Mandatory taxes on accommodations and resort fee portion of the package
• Steve and Doris Colgate’s 246-page Fast Track to Cruising textbook, published by McGraw-Hill (also available in e-book format)
• Two days (six hours each day) learning on a Colgate 26 sailboat
• All breakfasts, lunches, snacks and three dinners if choose Live Aboard Cruising Course
• Practice test sail at course end
• Three certifications (see What You Learn tab)
• Colgate Logbook
• Certification stickers
• Course diploma
• Eligibility to participate in Colgate Sailing Adventures® Hosted Flotilla Cruises
• Exclusive subscription benefit from Cruising World or Sailing World magazines
• Discount charter benefits from The Moorings

If you plan to charter in Europe or other areas overseas, you may be required to show your certification certificates and an International Proficiency Certificate. US Sailing, the governing body of sailing in the United States, will issue this certificate for a nominal fee for U.S. citizens who have achieved US Sailing Bareboat Cruising Certification. For more information go to  https://www.ussailing.org  and search IPC.

Fast Track to Cruising – 8-days with Live Aboard Cruising, sleep ashore first two or three nights, then next six nights are aboard

Sample schedule for resort based courses – may vary depending on weather and which location you choose.

Friday – Arrival Day No instruction

Saturday & Sunday Days – 1 & 2 Learn to Sail Course 9:00-10:00 – Learn to Sail classroom session 10:00-1:00 – On-water Learn to Sail course instruction – Colgate 26 1:00-2:00 – Lunch 2:00-5:00 – On-water Learn to Sail course instruction – Colgate 26

Monday Day 3 – First Day of Live Aboard Cruising Course 9:00 – Meet instructor and board boat, stow gear and provisions Boat show safety briefing and chart briefing as soon as everyone has settled in Instruction under sail starts right after chart briefing 5:00 – Drop anchor, pick up mooring or dock’ debrief, relax or study, dinner, anchor checks

Tuesday – Thursday Days 4-6 – Live Aboard Cruising Course Sunrise   –   Breakfast and classroom session Colgate Day Sailing or US Sailing Basic Keelboat certification test, Wednesday 9:00   –   Set sail – various drills, practice maneuvers, sail handling, overboard recovery 5:00   –   Drop anchor, pick up mooring or dock; debrief, relax, study, dinner and anchor checks

Friday Day 7 – Live Aboard Cruising Course Sunrise   –   Breakfast and classroom session 9:00-12:00   –   Course continues with certification tests; debrief. final round of docking practice 12:00-sunset   –   Test mini-cruise (without instructor aboard, or with you as silent observer)

Saturday Day 8 – End of Live Aboard Cruising Course No later than noon Return boat to base – graduation party

Fast Track to Cruising – 7-days with Bareboat Charter Cruising, sleep ashore each night

Sample schedules for resort locations, vary depending on weather and which location you choose.

Saturday & Sunday Days 1 & 2 Learn to Sail Course 9:00-10:00 – Learn to Sail classroom session 10:00-1:00 – On-water Learn to Sail course instruction – Colgate 26 1:00-2:00 – Lunch 2:00-5:00 – On-water Learn to Sail course instruction – Colgate 26

Monday and Wednesday Days 3 & 5 – Bareboat Charter Cruising Course (Full Day Sailing) 9:00-10:00 – Classroom lecture for all 10:00- 1:30 – On-water instruction on cruising boat 1.30- 2:00 – Lunch break (may pick up lunches in morning and be on water all day) 2:00- 5:30 – On-water instruction on cruising boat

Tuesday and Thursday Days 4 & 6 of Bareboat Charter Cruising Course (Half-Day Sailing) 9:00-10:00 – Classroom lecture for all 10:00- 1:30 – On-water instruction on cruising boat 1:30- 2:00 – Lunch break 2:00- 3:00 – Certification tests taken

Friday: Day 7 of Bareboat Charter Cruising Course (Half-Day Sailing) 9:00-12:00 – Test sail without instructor aboard or as silent observer

• Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa, Captiva Island, FL
• Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina, Ft. Myers Beach, FL
• The Westin Cape Coral Resort in Marina Village, Cape Coral, FL
• Hampton Inn & Suites, St. Petersburg, FL
• Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina, Scrub Island, British Virgin Islands

Offshore Sailing School knows we cannot thrive without great employees and products. All graduates are asked to complete an evaluation at the end of the course. The following testimonials come from those evaluations and individual correspondence with recent graduates of the Fast Track to Cruising® Course. Many are happy to correspond by email or phone with you. If you would like us to put you in touch with anyone below, please call 888-454-7015 or email [email protected].

Here’s what our Fast Track to Cruising graduates have to say :

My husband and I have been bareboat chartering for the past 10 years. It was our 17 year old daughters that wanted to get certified. They wanted to ensure that they could sail on their own one day. We took the live aboard as a family and took our knowledge and skills to the next level. We all now know “why” we make each sail adjustment, tack, jibe, etc. Sailing is now a bigger thrill than ever.

Susan Burns – Nashville, TN

I went from novice, wondering if sailing was for me, to a sailing enthusiast – comfortable with a large boat, in one short week.

Mike Mahan – Live Oak, FL

The experience was outstanding. My wife was so worried she would not enjoy it; I thought she would bite her nails off and pull her hair out on the trip down to the class. About 2/3 of the way through the week she thanked me for making her come and still says it was one of the best weeks she has ever had. She is telling everyone she sees to do it. My thanks to the instructors for their patience and caring, not to mention their humor.

Steve Allen – Albany, GA

One of the most productive vacations I have ever been on. The instructors were amazing, I learned a lot and had so much fun. I can’t stop telling everyone I know how cool this experience was. I will be sending my parents this trip as a gift.

Charles Zahalka, MD – Las Vegas, NV

This experience was life-changing and opened my eyes to a whole new world of opportunities. Before taking this course I had never sailed, yet alone been on a boat. I never imagined that after only one week I would be sailing with confidence. I entered the course excited and terrified, but the moment I arrived I felt a sense of ease. My instructors were extremely patient, never intimidating, and always encouraging. The difference between Offshore Sailing and other organizations is that both of my instructors had extensive experience and knowledge in sailing.

Jennifer Card – Chicago, IL

My wife and I are planning on purchasing a boat in the next few years and I feel this course was a great decision in preparing us to own a boat.

Joseph Boucher – Pasadena, MD

We had an amazing experience! Mike and I really only took this course because it was important to my brother-in-law who had a passion to learn and we wanted to spend time together. Neil took two beginners with only slight curiosity and made us extremely passionate to sail and continue the journey. He’s an amazing teacher with the patience of a saint!! We came away with way more knowledge and excitement to learn. We rented the 4600 catamaran right after our courses which will allow us to put all this great info to work.

Heather Nichols – Selana Beach, CA

I just wanted to let you know what a great time I had in St. Petersburg. Everything was perfect from the accommodations, weather, boat, instructor and classmates. The boat was provisioned perfectly. I couldn’t be happier with the experience I had at Offshore Sailing School and want to congratulate you on a superbly run organization. Cory was a great instructor and a fun guy to share a week with.

Brad Vaughan – Overland Park, KS

It is obvious that Offshore Sailing School puts a lot of effort in their selection of instructors. Our instructor, Jim Marvin, did an exceptional job. It was obvious he was very knowledgeable about sailing, but what impressed me the most was his ability to teach. My wife and I have very different learning styles. Jim recognized that quickly and adjusted his teaching where we were both able to grasp the subjects covered and apply them in an actual sail experience. This was a family course for us and my two children (9 and 11) were a little apprehensive at times throughout the week. Despite that, on our sail Friday without an instructor, they all put what they learned to work and we had an excellent day at sea! We thoroughly enjoyed the class and look forward to getting back out on the water with newly gained confidence in sailing.

Kyle Couture – Birmingham, AL

I learned a lot and feel confident in my sailing. The course also encouraged teamwork. My husband and I did this trip as an anniversary gift and Christmas gift. I was very pleased with the course and our working together. It was a good marriage/teambuilding experience.

Kim Sissell – Mandeville, LA

Terrific experience, very impressed. Bart was exceptionally patient on the water. For a complete novice like myself I cannot believe how much I learned about sailing.

Cynthia Rice – Halifax, NS

It was a huge amount of material, and I am surprised how much I learned in a short period of time. We can’t wait for summertime sailing on the Chesapeake. Mark and I chartered a cat for our June wedding and sailed it from Annapolis to St. Michaels with some of our wedding guests aboard. Our honeymoon was spent sailing!

Leigh Scott – Vienna, VA

Both instructors had an unbelievable wealth of knowledge and were able to impart it with ease. Outstanding bonding experience with my teenage son and other classmate.

Michael Morrison – Plantation, FL

Jacek is a natural teacher – very patient, allowed us to do everything so we learned a faster pace. He put me at ease with regard to testing and handling the boat, loves sailing, and it was contagious. This was a stretch for me, but I am very glad I did it. I am unlikely to sail the world, but will definitely take on our lake and sail with our grandchildren!

Kathy McAuliffe – Concord, NH

I thought the experience could not have been better. We learned a tremendous amount and had lots of fun at the same time. Jacek was the key to our successful journey into proving our sailing and cruising skills.

Jane Cogswell – Concord, NH

Mark is an amazing instructor! As a corporate trainer myself I know how difficult it can be to let the student experience and learn. LOVED how he explained the why and how first, then demo’d and then gave great feedback to help learn. I felt very comfortable as the solo gal with three experienced male students. AMAZING experience! So happy I chose Offshore!!

Ruth Ann Holly – Koln, Germany

My experience at South Seas and with the Offshore Sailing School was incredible. I couldn’t believe I’d learn to sail a 43’ Jeanneau in a week, but by the end of the course I feel comfortable on the water and ready to sail even more. Highly recommend, especially for those who haven’t sailed before.

Elizabeth Hwang – Philadelphia, PA

This course greatly exceeded my expectations. I am very new to sailing, but this experience has opened my mind to a whole new world. I thank Offshore Sailing for providing a course where I was able to spend some very valuable time with my family.

William Bennett V – Lexington, KY

Excellent course, much more comfortable with bareboat sailing and now looking forward to bareboat cruising. Michael was great with helping our kids enjoy the course, Garren was very patient on the water and very kind to our children.

Karen and Eric Snider – Kirksville, MO

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Sailing Eventide

Learn to Sail

© 2024 Sailing Eventide

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Learn Sailing

Join us and discover your sense of sailing adventure in IYT accredited courses or training tailored to your needs. With our qualified captain you are in safe and capable hands . We specialise in providing an opportunity to experience all the facets of sailing while training. Participate with as much hands on sailing as you’d like.

Team Building

We offer tailored corporate team building and learning development days for small groups up to 12 people. Absorb the beauty of the ocean and develop skills while enjoying the excitement of moving under sail. Spend some time team building & sailing our amazing WA waters.

Corporate Charters

Relaxing Charters

Avoid the crowds on our luxury 38ft catamaran . We offer small group private charters of up to 12 people, with a personal touch. Full day, half day & overnight private trips to Rottnest, Carnac & Garden Island. Simply relax and enjoy the romanic sunsets or join in & participate

Private Charters

UNPLUG & RECONNECT

We specialise in Sailing Training , Team Building Exercises and Private Personalised Charters departing from Perth in Western Australia.

On Eventide we are dedicated to making our guests entire experience one of safety, enjoyment and relaxation.

Your Sailing Adventure Your Way

Build your own sailing adventure with Sailing Eventide. We specialise in custom designed small group private sailing charters . Whether you plan to relax as we sail or would rather ‘Learn the Ropes’ and have a go at sailing, we custom design and tailor a sailing charter to suit your ocean interests.

Custom Sailing Adventure Ideas

Private Sailing Charters

Book a private sailing experience onboard Eventide’s 38’ Lagoon sailing catamaran – fast, stable, safe and easy to manoeuvre. Featuring a spacious outdoor area, large internal saloon, 4 cabins and 2 heads, each with electric toilet and shower facilities, Eventide has wide decks and a rigid walkway on the trampolines with plenty of room for relaxing and uninterrupted 360 degree views.

Book a Private Sail on Eventide

Custom Charters

We create charters to suit your idea of sailing, as hands on as you like.

RELAXED VIBES

The charter is all yours to kick back and relax with friends & family.

SMALL GROUP

Book the morning, afternoon or full day with a small group of people up to 12.

Mind Body Soul Nourishing

We source and serve quality local Western Australian produce to create a complete soul nourishing culinary experience. Make memories onboard Eventide sailing the seas and sharing a meal with family and friends.

Sailing Away

We’ve sailed the Australian coastline extensively, from the calm waters of Pittwater to the tropical delights of Northern Queensland. The rugged and remote beauty of the Kimberly region, and the wild, windy, turquoise waters of Western Australia’s Coral coast. We can’t wait to share our love of sailing Eventide around our amazing local WA destinations with you.

“I have sailed with Penny and Nev on Eventide, wow what a crew and what a boat. Loved every minute! Shall definitely be doing that again, thanks so much guys xx”

Cathy Garbin

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      DARLING HARBOUR, SYDNEY  -  Phone: +61 2 9280 1110 - [email protected]

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“Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than those you did. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from safe harbor. Catch the wind in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” Mark Twain To young men and women contemplating a voyage, I would say, “Go!” Joshua Slocum “Adventure before dementia” Matt Hayes

Learn to Sail with Sydney By Sail’s Sailing School

Sydney By Sail was established in 1995 by Olympic yachtsman Matt Hayes as a Sailing School. The sea is in our veins. 

About Sydney By Sail’s Sailing School

Sydney By Sail has the newest fleet of luxury yachts in Sydney Harbour.  Our sailing school is based in Darling Harbour near the heart of the Sydney CBD, which is easily accessible by various modes of transport including discounted parking a short walk away. We have a fleet of different yacht brands ranging from 31 – 45 ft including Hunter, Elan and Dufour. At Sydney By Sail we place critical importance on showing you different styles, shapes and sizes of yachts, so when you sail off into the horizon on your own yacht you are prepared. Find out more about our Yachts on our  Meet The Fleet page .

Our 27+ years of experience in sharing our love of sailing with tens of thousands of people has created some of the most professional and highly qualified instructors in town – we have the best job in the world and we cannot wait to share our love of the sea with you.

About International Yacht Training

Sydney By Sail is accredited by the most widely recognised Sail Training provider in the world. IYT Worldwide stands for International Yacht Training and no other organisation offers such a diverse range if nautical training. IYT Worldwide was started in 2002 to standardise yacht training across the globe and offers an entire range of recreational courses from entry level sailing up to International Bareboat Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore. There are no better sail training providers to get certified with, offering you more places & more opportunities to explore our beautiful oceans.  

Our Sailing Courses in Sydney Harbour

We can provide specialised Sail Training plans for those with some experience already, but assuming you wish to go from zero to hero, the best place to start is the Introduction to Yachting. This 2 day course runs from 10am – 4pm and provides a wide range of fundamental teachings to give you a base understanding of what it takes to be a sailor. We run this sailing course as often as possible, keeping small class sizes and frequency of dates at the top of our priority list.

Upon completion of the Introduction to Yachting, you will have a good idea if you want to continue with one of our Sail training packages, either the Crew or Skipper Package. 

• The International Crew Package is great for bareboat charters domestically in SHELTERED WATERS (Whitsundays/Sydney Harbour) or simply looking to crew onboard racing yachts.
• The International Skipper Package is great for those with bareboat charter aspirations further afield (Mediterranean, Caribbean or America) in COASTAL WATERS . It is also a validation of skill for yacht owners for insurance purposes. 

OUR INSTRUCTORS

Our  fully licensed  sailing instructors are highly experienced yachtsmen. Many have done the  Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race , various long distance ocean crossings and international sailing events. Our instructors hail from all around the world – with many saying Sydney Harbour is the most stunning waterway in the world to enjoy Sail Training. 

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Sydney by Sail

Festival Pontoon National Maritime Museum 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000

Festival Pontoon National Maritime Museum 2 Murray Street, Darling Harbour NSW 2000 Telephone : +61 2 9280 1110 Contact Form :  Click here

Learn to sail with Oceanwest RYA Sailing School – Internationally Recognised courses for beginners to Yachtmaster

Learn to sail in WA.  Oceanwest RYA Sailing School offers internationally recognised RYA learn to sail courses for beginners to Yachtmaster.  We also offer ICC Assessments, Corporate Entertainment / Team Building and Skippered Yacht Charters. Oceanwest is based in the beautiful Geographe Bay region in the South West of Western Australia. Most importantly, we are all about getting you out on the water and having fun! Please click on a box below to see what we offer.

Sailing courses for beginners to Yachtmaster

Rya sailing school.

Personalised training packages

Own boat training.

Explore the waters around Geographe Bay

Skippered yacht charter.

Unique client and team building experiences

Corporate entertainment and team building, get in touch, oceanwest charters, abn  49 851 645 385, postal address: – po box 691, bunbury, wa 6231, australia, email: –  [email protected], telephone: – 0412 060 130, yacht location: – berth h263, port geographe marina, spinnaker boulevard, busselton, wa 6280.

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Sailing Masterclass

The best preparation for any future skipper, the online catamaran masterclass offers a, fastrack to sailing success.

Learn at your own pace. Get the knowledge you need

Solid Foundation

Build the foundation that will provide the confidence you need to embark on your own sailing adventures

A Chance to Embark From Home

You'll be immersed in the experience of sailing from the comfort of your home

Costly Mistakes

Shattered Dreams

Gaps In Your Skills & Knowledge

WE HAVE A PROVEN TRACK RECORD

Why Learn From Nautilus Sailing?

We've helped over 4,000 students successfully learn to sail

We are an award-winning American Sailing School

We are educators first and foremost, following the best education practices

Our instructors have won ASA Outstanding Instructor of the Year awards

Our Sailing Basics Monohull series has collected over One Million views on YouTube

THE MASTERCLASS

INSTRUCTORS

Instructor Bio:

Tim Geisler

Lead Instructor

ONLINE SAILING MASTERCLASS

1 Year Limted Access

HOW TO START

Easy Three-Step Process

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WHAT'S INCLUDED

Pricing options

Depending on how long you want access, lifetime or just one year. Choose the one that is best for your learning style.

Regular price

1 year access

3 months - Lifetime

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WHY IS THIS THE DEFINITIVE ONLINE CATAMARAN COURSE?

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NAUTILUS SAILING FEATURED IN:

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What our students say:.

Chyrl Mosley

“This has been a very professional and well put together course. The videos are amazing. the course is great. I love how things are explained so simply and everything is very practical. Cant wait to put it all to practical use on the boat in the Se...”

“This has been a very professional and well put together course. The videos are amazing. the course is great. I love how things are explained so simply and everything is very practical. Cant wait to put it all to practical use on the boat in the Sea of Cortez!! ”

Parker Vanderhoof

“Great refresher training and perfect for bringing new boat mates up speed on many of the aspects of sailing. I highly recommend these training videos for those bringing new crew members who are new to sailing on their charter. ”

Bill Fellows

“Excellent! I had great instruction from Tim J on my my course. This was a good refresher for me ! I fell confident as a boater , the Navigation was really good and that’s what I was after ! Just need to find my boat and get the next chapter starte...”

“Excellent! I had great instruction from Tim J on my my course. This was a good refresher for me ! I fell confident as a boater , the Navigation was really good and that’s what I was after ! Just need to find my boat and get the next chapter started . Thanks !”

Jonathan M Augelli

“This course was awesome. There were great videos that covered all the key aspects of sailing on a catamaran. Tons of super helpful tips that I will be using on my next trip too. The visualizations were top notch as well. Great course. I highly...”

“This course was awesome. There were great videos that covered all the key aspects of sailing on a catamaran. Tons of super helpful tips that I will be using on my next trip too. The visualizations were top notch as well. Great course. I highly recommend!”

Condé Nast Traveler

The Best Places to Learn How to Sail, From the Greek Islands to the Florida Keys

Posted: March 21, 2024 | Last updated: March 21, 2024

Sailing is one of the best ways to explore some of the most beautiful, untouched coastal destinations around the globe. But from the outside, learning how to sail might seem like an intimidating—and expensive—pursuit.

However, learning to sail isn’t as difficult as it might seem. And contrary to what some may believe, “sailing is for everyone,” Zeke Quezada, the Director of Communications at the American Sailing Association (ASA) tells Condé Nast Traveler.

“It is important to understand that anyone can sail, and it is really easy to learn,” Quezada says. “Sailing is not just for the affluent; head into a community sailing club at your local marina, and you'll have options to get out on the water for little to no cost.”

While mastering the art of sailing takes consistent practice, hopeful captains looking for a crash-course to jumpstart their journey may consider a sailing vacation . These educational charters allow you to fully immerse yourself in the nautical lifestyle —and you can earn official certifications along the way. On these types of trips, “you have a qualified skipper on board who is offering instruction, as well as advice on how to become a safe and confident sailor,” Quezada explains. “The best part is that you can have your family onboard, and everyone is having a vacation while you check off the bucket list item of learning to sail.”

When planning your first sailing trip , look for trips and schools that offer credentialed schools and instructors; organizations such as ASA, US Sailing, and the Royal Yacht Association are internationally recognized. By following these certification tracks, you can become licensed to sail a charter without a captain on board, also known as a “bareboat charter.” Though not required in some places, a bareboat certification makes it much easier (and safer) to rent your own boat .

No matter which route you take, sailing is a lifelong skill that will open doors to a community of people passionate about getting out on the water and protecting the oceans. “Most importantly, you will learn how to sit back, turn off the phone, and feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face,” says Quezada. “You might start listening to Jimmy Buffet as well.”

Below, we’ve rounded up the best places around the world for learning how to sail—including destinations in North America , Europe , Asia , and Australia —plus, the sailing courses and trips to book in 2024.

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The Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands and US Virgin Islands are some of the best training grounds for novice sailors “because of their line-of-sight sailing, predictable wind, and sailor-friendly destinations,” Quezada says. “In the BVI, you can learn to sail and have a beach vacation simultaneously.”

If you’re looking to get your bareboat license, there are several ASA-certified sailing schools in the BVI and US Virgin Islands. Offshore Sailing School , one of the world's preeminent sailing institutions, offers fast track courses for all levels of sailing. Alternatively, charter a captained catamaran, one of the most popular ways to explore the Caribbean.

Florida Keys

Warm temperatures, calm turquoise waters, and consistent easterly winds make the Florida Keys one of the best places to learn to sail in the US. Stay at the Key Lime Sailing Club and cottages resort on Buttonwood Sound in Key Largo and take lessons at the American Sailing Academy , located onsite.

Alternatively, outdoor education organization Outward Bound, which offers program scholarships, is hosting a Florida Keys sailing excursion for adults in March/April 2025. Participants will live on a 30-foot open sailboat for slightly over a week learning beginner, intermediate, and advanced skills in chart and compass navigation, small boat seamanship, weather observation, and anchoring.

Greek Islands

Sea of Cortez, Mexico

New England

There’s no better way to experience a quintessential New England summer than by sailboat. The sailing season in the Northeast runs from April to October, with ASA and US Sailing accredited schools located in major metropolitans like New York City and Boston as well as coastal enclaves like Newport and Cape Cod .

For adults seeking a basic introduction to the sport, US Sailing offers “first sail” lessons in dozens of locations up and down the Eastern seaboard. Pull on a striped sweater, pack a bottle of rosé, and you’re good to go!

Croatia’s Adriatic Coast is home to a vibrant sailing community with picture-perfect weather conditions. Beginner sailors will appreciate the gentle winds of Dubrovnik, the Split Islands, and Kornati National Park , whose sheltered coves and bays supply calm and predictable winds. Enjoy incredible natural wonders only accessible by boat, like the famous Blue Cave.

Student sailors can earn beginner, intermediate, and advanced ASA certifications aboard 8-day learn to sail vacations in July, August, and September 2024. Hosted by American Sailing partner Sailing Virgins, the catamaran and monohull ships—each a minimum of 40 feet with 3-5 cabins—visit the Croatian islands of Brac, Korčula, Šćedro, Komiža, Vis, and Hvar.

Gulf of Thailand

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

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Burling and his Kiwi Black Foils are setting a course toward a $2 million SailGP payday

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The final day of SailGP’s Season 4 could bring a nice seven-figure payday for skipper Peter Burling and his Team New Zealand Black Foils on San Francisco Bay.

The Kiwis head into the final regatta already having clinched a spot in the $2 million, winner-take-all Grand Final, the biggest cash prize in sailing. Their two opponents will be determined via five fleet races on Saturday and Sunday in front of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Three-time defending SailGP champion Tom Slingsby and Team Australia have a good chance of making the final if they stay in the top three and keep their 50-foot foiling catamaran, the Flying Roo, in one piece.

The Kiwis have a 15-point lead over their rivals from across the Tasman Sea, with Diego Botin and Spain sitting just two points behind the Aussies. Quentin Delapierre has France another five points back in the fleet of 10 national teams in tech titan Larry Ellison’s global league.

The New Zealanders will pocket $350,000 for finishing atop the season leaderboard and then go for the $2 million in the Grand Final, which is double the payout for each of the first three season championships.

“As a team we’ve really wanted to set the benchmark all season long,” Burling said Friday. “We obviously had a good wobble in the middle of the season, but seeing the way we’ve come on in the second half is really pleasing. We really want to go into the final with momentum.”

The Kiwis have dominated despite a stunning setback in the season’s third regatta, when their wingsail suddenly shattered and fell into the Mediterranean minutes after they had completed the first day of racing in Saint-Tropez. They were forced to the docks for the rest of that regatta and the next regatta.

It’s not surprising the Kiwis have bounced back, considering their deep experience. Burling and wing trimmer Blair Tuke won three Olympic medals together, including one gold, and form the core of two-time defending America’s Cup champion Emirates Team New Zealand.

They won five of the first 12 regattas while the Aussies, who dominated SailGP’s first three seasons, have won just once.

“We need to just go wrap it out now,” Burling said. “All season long, San Fran has been the goal to get here, try to be the top performing team and put it all together in the final. Looks like the weather’s going to be awesome, good breeze.”

Slingsby, an Olympic gold medalist and former America’s Cup champion, isn’t used to coming into the final regatta in second place.

“The Kiwis and the Aussies have an amazing rivalry in every sport we do,” Slingsby said. “For sure it does sting a little more when you lose to the Kiwis. I’m sure they’ll say the same about us. But the fact is, they’ve been the form team. You even take away the penalty points we got that I felt were pretty harsh, and they still beat us. They would have overtaken us. They really came home strong the second half of the season.

“They deserve the prize money for winning the points score and we’ve got to try to win the overall season one,” Slingsby said.

Slingsby has had great success on San Francisco Bay, starting when he helped Oracle Team USA mount a stunning comeback against Emirates Team New Zealand to defend the America’s Cup in 2013. He then won the first three SailGP championships there.

“The way we draw our confidence is in this venue,” Slingsby said. “This venue suits our sailing — strong winds, consistent. We’ve done really well in that million-dollar race in the past. So we’ve got to look for different ways to draw that confidence and we’re looking to draw that confidence from our history here.”

In last year’s Grand Final, Slingsby held on through a few tense moments after his catamaran fell off its foils and then prevailed over Burling of New Zealand in a short dash to the finish. Britain’s Sir Ben Ainslie was third.

Bernie Wilson has covered sailing for the AP since 1991.

AP sports: https://apnews.com/hub/sports