Dinghy Sailing - Start Sailing (Level 1)
This course provides a practical and enjoyable introduction to dinghy sailing for beginners. Suitable for youth and adults, it focuses on developing essential skills in a safe and supportive environment. Whether you’re looking to start a new hobby or build confidence on the water, this program is the perfect first step.
Description
This two-day course provides a structured introduction to the wonderful sport of sailing.
You will learn the theory and core practical sailing skills in a progressive, safe environment.
We begin by teaching you how to rig and prepare your boat. Then, we move on to the exciting bit—sailing across the wind. This is where you feel the joy of sailing.
By the end of the course, you will know how to sail around a basic triangular course in light winds.
Course content
- Safety first: Learn about personal gear, PFDS (Personal Flotation Devices), and more.
- Boat preparation: Rigging, launching, and landing your dinghy.
- Sailing basics: Orientation, reaching, and sailing across the wind.
- Upwind skills: Tack through the “no-go zone.”
- Downwind skills: Gybing and mastering the "gybing zone."
- Core concepts: Understand the five essentials of sailing and the points of sailing.
- Capsize recovery: A key skill for any sailor.
Sailing location
The course is based in a superb setting at Middle Harbour Yacht Club on Sydney Harbour.
The local sailing area offers numerous safe, sandy beaches ideal for beginners to learn the ropes.
Equipment and instructors
- Dinghies: Sail on our fleet of RS Zest single-handers and Laser Bahias—two-person dinghies equipped with trapeze and asymmetric spinnakers.
- Instructors: Our qualified, friendly, and experienced professionals ensure a supportive and engaging learning experience.
Book a private course.
Why not bring your own group of family and friends? Organise a private course with five or more participants and enjoy a 20% discount!
We’ll work with you to find a date that suits your group.
Click the "Enquiry" button at the top of the page to start planning your adventure!
Before you start
- This course is suitable for complete beginners aged 12 and above.
- You should be able to swim 50 m.
What next?
- Move on to our level 2 course to develop and improve your skills.
- Then you will be ready to come and hire our sailing dinghies, start racing or join our skills development classes.
What's included
Training, equipment, safety cover, PFD
Qualifications
- RYA/AS Start Sailing - Level 1.
Faq
- Booking information
- We recommend booking early to avoid disappointment, as places are limited.
- View our Terms and Conditions.
- How fit do I need to be?
- You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and agility to move around the boat, demonstrate skills repeatedly, and recover from the water after a capsize.
- While we provide Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), you should be able to swim at least 50 metres unaided in open water.
- A positive attitude and a willingness to learn are just as important as physical ability.
- If you’re unsure whether this course is suitable for you, please contact us to discuss your sailing experience and fitness level.
- What happens if the weather is bad?
- The course runs in a variety of wind and weather conditions to help you gain experience and confidence.
- In the unlikely event of extreme weather where it’s unsafe to sail, theory sessions, shore-based seamanship skills, and classroom modules will be delivered instead.
- What should I bring with me?
- Wetsuit or sailing gear appropriate for the season
- Rash vest, swimwear, and quick-dry clothing
- Non-slip footwear such as dinghy boots or old trainers
- Hat, sunglasses with a strap, and high-factor sunscreen
- A towel and a warm change of clothes for after sessions
- Water bottle and lunch/snacks for the day
- A positive attitude, enthusiasm, and a willingness to develop your skills!
- Do I need any previous experience?
- No prior dinghy sailing experience is required. This course is ideal for beginners looking to learn the fundamentals of sailing in a safe and supportive environment.
- You’ll start with the basics and build confidence as you progress through the week with the guidance of our professional instructors.
- What if I capsize?
- Capsizing is a normal and valuable part of learning to sail dinghies. You’ll be taught how to recover safely and confidently.
- Our instructors are trained to coach you through the capsize recovery process, and our support boat is always nearby to assist.
- You’ll be wearing a PFD at all times on the water.