Dinghy Sailing Instructor Fast Track
The Dinghy Sail Instructor Fast-track programme is designed for basic intermediate sailors who want to fast-track their skills in a stunning location and progress to become an RYA-qualified Dinghy Sailing instructor quickly. This widely respected qualification opens global job opportunities in sailing instruction and watersports at sailing schools and clubs in Australia, the UK, and Europe.
Description
To gain the RYA Instructor qualification, you’ll need to demonstrate solid sailing skills, theory knowledge, safety awareness, and an effective coaching style. ⛵
Our Fast Track program is designed to rapidly develop your sailing and teaching skills in a superb sailing location.
You’ll gain confidence on the water, learn to instruct and coach great sailing classes, and build the knowledge you need to become a professional instructor. 🌊
By the end of the course, you’ll have an imaginative approach to teaching safe, efficient sailing, along with a clear understanding of the theory that underpins it.
Course programme
Week 1 – RYA Level 2/3 sailing skills
Week 2 – RYA Race training / Spinnaker handling
Week 3 – RYA Seamanship Skills / Day Sailing / RYA Powerboat Level 2
Week 4 – RYA Dinghy Instructor / First Aid
Sailing location
The course is based at Middle Harbour Yacht Club on stunning Sydney Harbour – one of the most iconic sailing destinations in the world.
Expect warm sunshine, steady sea breezes, and a huge sailing area with plenty of picturesque beaches just a short sail away.
It’s a fantastic playground to sharpen your skills while soaking up the beauty of Australia’s sailing capital.
Middle Harbour is also home to the Australian Olympic Sailing Team, adding an extra layer of inspiration to your training.
Equipment and staff
Our training fleet includes RS Zests and Laser Bahias, versatile two-person dinghies equipped with trapeze and asymmetric spinnakers – perfect for developing your skills and learning to teach a variety of techniques.
We also have a selection of paddleboards and windsurfers to give you an all-around watersports experience.
Training is delivered by our team of experienced RYA-qualified instructors, who bring a friendly, professional, and supportive approach to every session.
Where to stay ashore
If you’re coming from interstate or overseas, you’ll need somewhere to stay during your course.
Most students choose the beautiful beachside suburb of Manly, famous for its vibrant surf culture, laid-back vibe, and one of the world’s most stunning beaches. Manly is a short bus or Uber ride from our training centre.
You can book budget accommodation such as hostels, Airbnb options, or stay in our Flying Fish serviced crew apartments in Manly (subject to availability), where you’ll share with other Flying Fish students – perfect for making new friends and enjoying the social side of your adventure.
Before you start
- Our 4-week Fast-track course is suitable for basic intermediate dinghy sailors with skills equivalent to RYA or AS Level 2.
- If you are starting as a complete beginner please contact us about doing some extra foundation training before you start.
What's included
- Tuition, logbook, pre-course reading, training resources, and certification.
- PFDs are provided and we can loan you wet weather clothing if required.
Qualifications and skills
- RYA Powerboat Level 2
- TCP First Aid / RYA Safe and Fun
- RYA Dinghy Instructor
What next?
- On passing the RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification you are ready to start work on the water as a sailing instructor.
- If you join us in Sydney in October / November you will be well timed for work in the Australian high season when you finish.
- If you prefer Sydney in February / March you could return to Europe in time for the Mediterranean season.
Faq
- Booking information
- To secure your place on the course, please pay a 20% holding deposit via the links provided on our website. This deposit will reserve your spot until sixty days before the course start date, when the remaining course fees are due.
- Please note that the deposit is non-refundable; however, it can be transferred to any other course or event offered by Flying Fish.
- 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 assist students on the water.
- A positive attitude and a willingness to learn, adapt, and teach 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 in adapting your teaching style.
- In the unlikely event of extreme weather where it’s unsafe to sail, theory sessions, shore-based teaching techniques, and classroom modules will be covered 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 coaching skills!
- Do I need a visa if I’m travelling from overseas?
- Apart from Australians and New Zealanders, everyone travelling to Australia must apply for a visa in advance.
- Do not apply for a student visa – these are only available for government-sanctioned higher education courses.
- A tourist visa or a working holiday visa (if you plan to work before or after your course) is acceptable for this program.
- What job opportunities are there after becoming an RYA qualified Dinghy Instructor?
- Once qualified, you can work at sailing schools and watersports centres in the Mediterranean, the UK, and Australia, teaching dinghy sailing to beginners and improvers.
- Many instructors combine their qualifications with travel, working seasonal roles at resorts, holiday companies, and beach clubs.
- It’s also a great idea to add an RYA Windsurf Instructor qualification to broaden your employability and teach a wider range of activities at most centres.