Try Yachting
Try sailing on Sydney Harbour in just 3 hours. Take the helm, learn the basics and experience the thrill of sailing in a relaxed, beginner-friendly session. No experience needed — just come aboard and give it a go.
Description

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