Dinghy Sailing Instructor Course
This intensive course combines on-water training with shore-based instruction, leading to the internationally recognized RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification which converts easily to an Australian Sailing certificate. This widely respected qualification opens job opportunities at sailing schools and clubs in Australia, the UK, and Europe.
Description
The RYA Dinghy Instructor qualification is valuable for anyone passionate about sailing, whether for personal development or as a stepping stone into the watersports industry. It is ideal for:
✅ Young sailors seeking gap-year opportunities or seasonal work in Europe and Australia.
✅ Aspiring professionals looking to build a career in sailing instruction.
✅ Experienced sailors eager to share their knowledge with others and to be qualified for part-time work in sailing schools and clubs.
Course content
This course will equip you with the knowledge and skills to instruct and coach sailing on and off the water. You will gain confidence in applying the RYA’s proven training methods to teach beginners and more advanced sailors in single- and two-handed dinghies.
The course emphasises practical experience, providing ample opportunities to coach and instruct during training sessions. The final day will include an assessment to ensure you are fully prepared for real-world teaching scenarios.
Key Topics Include:
✅ The role of the instructor.
✅ Instruction and coaching principles.
✅ The RYA training scheme.
✅ Land drills for tacking and gybing.
✅ The RYA teaching method afloat.
✅ Teaching juniors and sailors with special needs.
✅ Course planning, risk assessment, and legal considerations.
A fantastic location
The course is conducted at Flying Fish Sailing, based at the Middle Harbour Yacht Club, home to the Australian Sailing Team. This beautiful location offers reliable winds, easy access to stunning beaches, and world-class facilities, making it an ideal environment to develop your teaching skills.
Expert training
Your course will be led by a highly experienced and qualified RYA Dinghy Coach Assessor, with a second Coach Assessor conducting the final assessment.
Fleet and training resources
The training fleet includes RS Zest single-handers and Laser Bahia two-person dinghies featuring trapeze and asymmetric spinnakers.
We also have several excellent Rigid Inflatable rescue craft and a shore-based classroom for theory sessions.
Before you start
- You must have a recognized First Aid certificate and an RYA Powerboat Level 2 qualification.
- You are a confident sailor comfortable sailing in stronger winds.
- If you have less experience you should consider our Dinghy Sailing Instructor Fast-track course.
What next?
- As a qualified RYA instructor, you will be ready to enter your first job at one of the many RYA schools worldwide.
- In Australia, your RYA certificate converts to the Australian Sailing Dinghy Instructor certification meaning you can work at an Australian Sailing accredited school.
What's included
Equipment, publications, tuition, and exam fees.
Qualifications
- RYA Safe and Fun online course
- RYA Dinghy Instructor
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!
- What happens if I fail the course?
- It’s rare for candidates to fail, as we provide plenty of coaching and support throughout the course. However, if you don’t meet the required standard, we’ll give you clear, constructive feedback and an action plan to help you reach the level needed to pass. You can then arrange further training or reassessment when you’re ready.
- 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.