The Whitsundays is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world, with gorgeous blue ocean stretching for as far as the eye can see. This makes it the perfect sail training location, as you get to take in the wonder of one of the world’s most iconic heritage sites while learning a valuable skillset. Our Learn to Sail Whitsundays courses are designed to have you feeling confident and competent at the helm of a yacht, courtesy of masterful teaching from experienced instructors. Between June and October, our training yachts depart from Shute Harbour, which is conveniently located, close to the Whitsunday islands, making them highly accessible and training beginning from the moment of arrival.

Are you interested in sailing lessons? Develop a new skill while having a great time on the water by giving us a call on 07 3396 4100 or reach out through our contact page.

What Are Our Learn to Sail Whitsundays Courses?

Our 5-day courses cater to total beginners to the more experienced sailors, our options of sailing course Whitsundays are the perfect way to learn valuable new skills while experiencing the breathtaking sights the area has to offer. At the successful completion of your course, you will be granted either: RYA Competent Crew or RYA Day Skipper.  As a 5-day course, we operate Monday to Friday, which provides enough time to impart our knowledge, while giving you plenty of experience aboard the vessel.

We recommend arriving on Sunday, spend a night in the nearby Airlie Beach before joining the boat on Monday, then spend another night in Airlie on Friday after the completion of the Whitsundays sailing week before heading home on Saturday. We are also looking into offering more weekend options to make things more flexible for those that are unable to step away from their work for five days at a time. These weekend courses are perfect for those seeking a taste of sailing before engaging in Whitsundays yacht hire.  Please enquire if you do not see a date listed.

 

Useful Links
Packing list – Packing list
Shute Harbour Whitsunday Rent A Yacht – Joining instructions – Joining instructions – meeting at Shute Harbour

Location(s):
Whitsundays, Queensland

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RYA Competent Crew
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Whitsundays

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What You Will Learn On the Learn to Sail Whitsundays Courses

  • How to prepare a yacht for sailing.
  • Helming a yacht.
  • How to be a useful crew member.
  • How to set sails.
  • Understanding the influence of apparent and true wind upon a yacht.
  • Uses of winches, clutches, cleats and jammers.
  • How to tack and gybe.
  • Ropework & knots.
  • Rules of the road.
  • Man overboard recovery techniques.
  • Clothing and equipment.
  • Navigation & buoyage.
  • Safety equipment.
  • Distress signals.
  • Meteorology.
  • Sail trimming.
  • Preparation for Sea.
  • Engine Maintenance.
  • Radio Operation.
  • Victualling. 
  • Handling Under Motor and Power.

The Premier Whitsundays Sailing Team

Combine your next holiday with a learning experience

As Australia’s original accredited RYA sailing training centre, we have been helping people realise their dreams of sailing  since 1996. Whether you are looking to step foot on a yacht for the first time or wish to develop your skills, we offer a range of courses designed for all skill levels. Along with learning invaluable skills, you will also make unforgettable memories as our friendly instructors treat you to a trip amongst some of the country’s most beautiful locations.

Rather than worrying about your next Whitsundays yacht hire/bareboat holiday, sail with us first as we show you some of the area’s best spots while preparing you to helm your own vessel. We also offer classroom-based courses for those looking to improve their knowledge and skillset before manning a yacht.  We’ll have you the master of your own Whitsundays cruise in no time!

Set Sail with Sailing Course Whitsundays Today!

At Southern Cross Yachting, we teach a wide variety of RYA courses to help you develop the skills you wish to learn, whether that is sailing or navigation. We pair expert knowledge with excellent customer service as our experienced instructors show you the ropes while providing a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Discover for yourself how wonderful Whitsundays sailing is by giving us a call on 07 3396 4100 or accessing our contact page.


  • Previous Experience

    Beginner to experienced

  • Course Duration

    5 days

  • Certificate Upon Completion

    RYA Competent Crew

    RYA Day Skipper

An incredible adventure! The experienced owners Carly & Jamie of SCY were fantastic in booking & organising, the instructor was incredibly knowledgeable & professional, and the boat was amazing. Can’t rate Southern Cross Yachting highly enough- I’m already planning my next lesson
Jemma - July 2023 
Jemma - July 2023

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!

Alex 
Alex

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,

Michael MacCormack 2021
Michael MacCormack

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

N Dashti 2020
N Dashti

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!

Maria Bukala 2021
Maria Bukala
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