Experience the Joy of Catamaran Sailing
Our Catamaran Sailing Courses are designed to provide you with the skills and confidence needed to navigate these stable and spacious vessels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to get started or an experienced sailor aiming to refine your techniques, our comprehensive courses offer something for everyone. Additionally, our courses can help you achieve the International Certificate of Competence (ICC), ensuring you are prepared for sailing opportunities worldwide.
Why Choose Catamaran Sailing?
Catamarans are known for their stability, speed, and comfort, making them an ideal choice for RYA training. With their wide beam and twin hulls, they offer a smoother ride and more space than traditional monohull sailboats. This makes them an excellent choice for both leisure sailing and extended voyages.
Key Features of Our Courses
- Hands-On Training: Gain practical experience on the water with our state-of-the-art catamarans.
- Expert Instructors: Learn from seasoned sailors with extensive catamaran experience.
- Flexible Scheduling: Choose from a variety of course schedules to fit your busy lifestyle.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering everything from basic handling to advanced navigation and safety.
Catamaran Sailing Courses
Learn to Sail a Catamaran
Catamaran Sailing Lessons
Catamaran Training
Beginner Catamaran Sailing
Intermediate Catamaran Sailing
Advanced Catamaran Sailing
Catamaran Navigation
Sunshine Coast Catamaran Courses
Whitsundays Catamaran Training
Catamaran Sailing Certification
PRICE is what you pay, VALUE is what you get! Warren Buffett
Your Own Bed
Believe it or not, most sailing schools required you to sleep in the same bed with a stranger. We will NOT make you share a bed with anyone you don’t want to.
Less Students Per Boat
We have a very low Student/Instructor Ratio. This allows you more training time, and more comfort. Make sure you ask before booking at a school.
Bedding Provided
You do not have to figure out how to transport your bedding, we have you covered. It may sound simple, but it makes a big difference.
Training Focused on Fun
This is an adventure, not a cadet academy. We are here to have a great time, learn to sail, and build lasting friendships. Have a look at our past customers comments.
RYA Start Yachting
The RYA Start Yachting course is an introduction to sailing cruising yachts, essential to build a solid and correct foundation on which to develop your knowledge of sailing.
LOCATION: Newport Marina
COURSE DURATION: 2 Days
START & FINISH TIMES: Start at 9:00am on the first day, and finish by 4:00pm on the last day of the course.
PRE-REQUISITES: None
18-19 January 2025 – BOOK HERE
RYA Competent Crew
The RYA Competent Crew course is for beginners and those who would like to become active crew members rather than just passengers. By the end of the course you should be able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout, row a dinghy and assist in all the day to day routines.
LOCATION: Newport Marina
COURSE DURATION: 5 Days
START & FINISH TIMES: Start at 9:00am on the first day, and finish by 4:00pm on the last day of the course.
PRE-REQUISITES: None
10-14 February 2025 – BOOK HERE
10-14 March 2025 – BOOK HERE
17-21 April 2025 – BOOK HERE
19-23 May 2025 – BOOK HERE
16-20 June 2025 – BOOK HERE
RYA Day Skipper
The RYA Day Skipper course provides the essential skills and knowledge for aspiring skippers to safely and confidently lead short coastal yacht passages. This also qualifies your for an International Certificate of Competency (ICC).
LOCATION: Newport Marina
COURSE DURATION: 5 Days
START & FINISH TIMES: Start at 9:00am on the first day, and finish by 4:00pm on the last day of the course.
PRE-REQUISITES: Skill level to the RYA Competent Crew Level
10-14 February 2025 – BOOK HERE
10-14 March 2025 – BOOK HERE
17-21 April 2025 – BOOK HERE
19-23 May 2025 – BOOK HERE
16-20 June 2025 – BOOK HERE
Why Learn with Sunshine Sailing Australia?
Our RYA training programs are led by our expert instructors. Comprehensive courses, and beautiful sailing locations provide the perfect setting to master the art of catamaran sailing.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy leisurely sails or prepare for competitive racing, we have the right RYA course for you.
Our tailored programs ensure that every student receives personalized attention and the highest quality training to achieve their sailing goals.
Proven Track Record
We have a long history of successfully training sailors of all levels.
Supportive Community
Join a vibrant community of sailing enthusiasts and make lifelong friends.
Top-Quality Equipment
Our modern fleet of catamarans is meticulously maintained to ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience.
Master the Art of Catamaran Sailing
Catamarans, often mistakenly referred to as catamarn, catermeran, catamarang or catamran, are unique sailing vessels known for their stability, speed, and spacious design. These dual-hulled boats are perfect for those looking to enjoy smooth sailing, whether you’re navigating calm coastal waters or embarking on an offshore adventure. While the correct spelling is catamaran, it’s not uncommon for people to use variations like catamarn, catamarang or catermeran when searching for information about these incredible boats. No matter how you spell it, learning to sail a catamaran offers a rewarding experience that blends comfort with performance, making it a top choice for sailors of all levels.
By weaving these alternative spellings into your page naturally, you can help it rank for these common misspellings while maintaining a professional and engaging tone.
The Advantages of Learning on a Catamaran
Catamarans are a game- hanger in the world of sailing, offering unique features that make them an ideal choice for sailors at any level. Whether you’re taking your first steps into the sailing world or refining advanced skills, learning on a catamaran provides benefits unmatched by traditional monohull sailboats.
Stability
The dual-hull design of a catamaran ensures unmatched stability on the water. Unlike monohulls, which can heel significantly in response to wind and waves, catamarans remain level, even in rougher conditions. This makes them an excellent choice for those prone to seasickness or nervous about the tipping sensations of other sailboats. The added stability also allows students to focus more on learning and less on maintaining their balance, creating a comfortable environment for hands-on training.
Space and Comfort
Catamarans are renowned for their spacious layouts, both above and below deck. The wide beam provides generous deck space, allowing students to move freely during training without feeling cramped. Below deck, the roomy cabins and communal areas create a more relaxed and comfortable learning atmosphere. This extra space makes catamarans perfect for group lessons, as multiple students can practice and observe simultaneously without overcrowding. Additionally, the large living quarters are ideal for multi-day courses, providing privacy and convenience for extended stays on the water.
Speed and Efficiency
With their lightweight construction and reduced water resistance, catamarans can achieve faster speeds than traditional sailboats, even in light winds. This speed adds an exciting element to training sessions, giving students a taste of performance sailing. Furthermore, their efficiency extends beyond speed—catamarans are often more fuel-efficient when under power, thanks to their twin-engine setup. This eco-friendly advantage aligns with sustainable sailing practices, making catamarans a preferred choice for environmentally conscious sailors.
Safety
Safety is a cornerstone of any sailing lesson, and catamarans excel in this area. Their inherent stability makes them less likely to capsize, providing a secure environment for learners. The dual hulls also offer buoyancy and redundancy, meaning even in the unlikely event of a hull breach, the vessel remains afloat. This feature gives both students and instructors peace of mind, allowing for a focus on skill-building without unnecessary risks.
Ideal for All Skill Levels
The combination of stability, space, and safety makes catamarans perfect for beginners who need a forgiving platform to learn the basics. At the same time, their speed and efficiency appeal to experienced sailors looking to enhance their handling and navigation skills. Advanced students can also benefit from learning to operate twin engines, manage dual sails, and handle the unique challenges of docking and maneuvering a wider vessel.
Who Are Our Catamaran Sailing Courses For?
Our catamaran sailing courses are designed to accommodate sailors of all levels and backgrounds, providing tailored training that meets individual goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your expertise, our comprehensive courses ensure you have the skills and confidence needed to enjoy the freedom of catamaran sailing.
Beginners
For those new to sailing, our beginner courses provide a solid foundation in the essentials of catamaran operation. Learn the fundamentals in a supportive environment with experienced instructors guiding you every step of the way. Key skills include:
- Steering
Understanding the helm and controlling the dual hulls for smooth navigation. - Sail Trimming
Learning how to adjust sails for optimal performance in various wind conditions. - Docking
Mastering the art of approaching and securing the vessel at docks and marinas.
Our beginner courses focus on hands on experience, ensuring you gain confidence while enjoying the stability and comfort that catamarans provide.
Intermediate Sailors
If you’ve already mastered the basics and are ready to expand your knowledge, our intermediate courses are perfect for honing your abilities. These sessions dive deeper into advanced handling techniques, such as:
- Tacking and Jibing
Refining your manoeuvres for smoother transitions. - Navigation
Understanding chart reading, route planning, and GPS navigation. - Heavy Weather Sailing
Gaining the confidence to handle challenging conditions safely.
Intermediate sailors will also have the chance to practice more complex scenarios, such as managing crew coordination and sailing longer passages, making these courses a great stepping stone to advanced certifications.
Aspiring Skippers
For those aiming to lead their own voyages, our courses prepare you for the responsibilities and challenges of being a skipper. Aspiring skippers will gain the expertise needed to take the helm with confidence, including:
- Leadership and Communication
Managing a crew effectively and maintaining clear communication during sailing operations. - Passage Planning
Developing detailed plans for short and long voyages, including contingencies for changing conditions. - Certification Preparation
Achieving internationally recognised qualifications, such as the International Certificate of Competence (ICC), which is essential for chartering catamarans abroad.
Our tailored programs ensure you’re not only equipped with technical skills but also ready to embrace the leadership role that comes with skippering.
Beautiful Catamaran Training Locations
Our courses are conducted in some of Australia’s most stunning sailing locations, including:
- Sunshine Coast
Known for its beautiful beaches and excellent sailing conditions. - Brisbane
Explore the dynamic waterways of Moreton Bay. - Whitsunday Islands
Sail in the idyllic and world-renowned waters of the Whitsundays.
What You’ll Learn in Our Catamaran Sailing Courses
Our catamaran sailing courses are designed to provide a well-rounded education in both the technical and practical aspects of sailing, equipping you with the skills, confidence, and knowledge needed to handle a catamaran safely and effectively. From foundational techniques to advanced navigation and safety procedures, our comprehensive curriculum ensures that you’re prepared to tackle the unique challenges and rewards of catamaran sailing.
Whether you’re navigating calm coastal waters or preparing for offshore adventures, the skills you gain in our courses will empower you to sail with confidence and control. Join us and take the helm of your catamaran adventure today.
Basic Maneuvers
Mastering the fundamentals is the cornerstone of any sailing journey. You’ll learn
- Tacking and Jibing
Develop smooth transitions as you turn the bow or stern of the catamaran through the wind, minimising loss of speed and ensuring control. - Sail Control
Understand how to adjust and trim sails for different wind conditions to maximise performance and maintain stability. - Helm Control
Gain hands-on experience steering the catamaran, learning how to respond to wind shifts and changes in sea state effectively.
Navigation and Chart Work
Understanding where you’re going and how to get there safely is a vital part of sailing. In our courses, you’ll learn
- Chart Reading
nterpret nautical charts to identify hazards, depth contours, and landmarks. - Passage Planning
Plan safe and efficient routes, accounting for tides, currents, and wind conditions. - Modern GPS Systems
Use advanced navigation tools for accurate positioning and real-time route adjustments. - Collision Avoidance
Apply rules of the road to avoid conflicts with other vessels and ensure smooth navigation in busy waterways.
Safety at Sea
Safety is a top priority in all our courses. You’ll learn
- Man-Overboard Drills
Practice techniques for quickly and effectively recovering a person from the water. - Emergency Protocols
Develop strategies for handling equipment failures, medical emergencies, and severe weather. - Communication Systems
Use VHF radios and other communication tools to call for assistance or coordinate with other vessels. - Safety Equipment Use
Familiarise yourself with lifejackets, fire extinguishers, and other essential safety gear.
Anchoring and Docking
Catamarans, with their wide beam and unique handling characteristics, require specific skills for anchoring and docking. You’ll learn
- Anchoring Techniques
Choose the right anchor for different seabeds and weather conditions, and set it securely. - Docking Maneuvers
Approach docks with precision, accounting for wind, current, and space constraints. - Line Handling
Understand how to manage mooring lines effectively for smooth and safe docking. - Marina Etiquette
Follow best practices for operating in busy harbours and marinas.
Heavy Weather Sailing
For sailors who want to feel prepared for anything, our courses include training in handling challenging conditions. You’ll learn
- Reefing Sails
Reduce sail area quickly and safely to maintain control in strong winds. - Steering in Heavy Seas
Navigate large waves and gusty winds with confidence. - Weather Forecasting
Interpret weather patterns to anticipate and avoid severe conditions. - Storm Preparedness
Implement strategies for keeping the crew and vessel safe during extreme weather events.
Catamaran Sailing vs. Monohull Sailing
When it comes to choosing the right sailing vessel, the debate between catamarans and monohulls is a common one. Both offer unique experiences, but catamarans have distinct advantages that make them increasingly popular among sailors. Known for their stability, speed, and spaciousness, catamarans are ideal for those seeking a smooth, comfortable, and safe sailing experience. Whether you’re embarking on your first sailing lesson or planning a global adventure, the benefits of a catamaran make it a standout choice for sailors of all levels.
Catamarans stay level in the water, providing reduced heel for a more stable platform, even in rough seas. Their dual hull design allows for faster speeds and increased safety, making them less likely to capsize. With ample deck space and roomy cabins, catamarans also offer unmatched comfort and versatility, ideal for leisure cruising, offshore passages, and long term adventures. While monohulls retain their charm and are beloved for their traditional sailing feel, catamarans deliver a unique combination of performance, comfort, and security that appeals to a wide range of sailors.
Reduced Heel
One of the most noticeable differences between catamarans and monohulls is the absence of significant heeling (tilting) on a catamaran. Thanks to their dual hull design, catamarans stay level in the water, providing a more stable platform. This feature is particularly appealing for extended trips or for sailors who are new to the sport. The reduced heel:
- Makes moving around the deck safer and more comfortable.
- Minimises the risk of seasickness, making catamarans ideal for families or charter groups.
- Allows for a more relaxing sailing experience, as crew members don’t need to constantly brace themselves against the tilt.
Faster Speeds
Catamarans are known for their speed, which is achieved through their lightweight construction and reduced drag. The dual hulls cut through the water more efficiently than a single hull, allowing catamarans to reach higher speeds, even in light wind conditions. This speed advantage is particularly beneficial for:
- Covering longer distances in less time, making them ideal for island hopping or offshore passages.
- Adding an element of excitement to sailing, appealing to those who enjoy a more dynamic experience.
- Reducing fuel consumption when using engines, as their streamlined design requires less power.
Safety
Safety is a paramount concern for sailors, and catamarans excel in this area. Their two-hull design provides increased stability and buoyancy, making them less likely to capsize than monohulls. Additional safety features include:
- Enhanced Stability in Rough Seas
Catamarans remain steady in challenging conditions, offering peace of mind to both novice and experienced sailors. - Redundancy
With two separate hulls, catamarans provide extra buoyancy, ensuring the vessel stays afloat even if one hull is compromised. - Shallow Draft
Catamarans can navigate shallow waters with ease, reducing the risk of grounding and allowing access to more secluded anchorages.
Space and Comfort
Another area where catamarans shine is the spaciousness they offer. The wide beam creates a large deck area, making it easier for crew and passengers to move around. Below deck, catamarans often feature multiple cabins and ample storage, offering more privacy and comfort than monohulls. This makes them a preferred choice for:
- Families or groups who value space during multi-day trips.
- Charterers who want a luxurious, home like experience on the water.
- Sailors seeking a stable platform for activities like dining, relaxing, or fishing.
Versatility in Use
While monohulls are often preferred for competitive racing due to their agility and responsiveness, catamarans are versatile for various uses, including:
- Leisure cruising and island hopping.
- Offshore passages and long-term liveaboard adventures.
- Hosting social events or family gatherings with plenty of space for everyone.
Catamaran Sailing vs. Keelboat Sailing
Choosing between a catamaran and a keelboat for your sailing adventures often comes down to your preferences and goals on the water. Both vessel types offer unique experiences, but their designs, handling, and features make them suited for different styles of sailing. Whether you’re new to sailing or looking to refine your skills, understanding the differences between these vessels can help you make an informed decision.
Catamarans, with their dual hull design, offer unmatched stability, speed, and spaciousness. They stay level in the water, reducing the risk of seasickness and making them ideal for longer journeys or family trips. The wide beam of a catamaran provides ample space on deck and in the cabins, creating a more comfortable and luxurious sailing experience. Additionally, their faster speeds and shallow draft allow them to navigate shallow waters and cover greater distances efficiently, making them perfect for island hopping and offshore adventures.
Keelboats, on the other hand, are designed for traditional sailing enthusiasts who enjoy a more responsive and tactile experience on the water. With their single hull and weighted keel, keelboats provide excellent upwind performance and a sense of adventure as they heel with the wind. Keelboats are often favoured for training, racing, and coastal cruising, as their compact design makes them easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces. They also offer an immersive introduction to sailing basics, making them a popular choice for beginners who want to develop fundamental skills.
While catamarans prioritise comfort, stability, and speed, keelboats excel in delivering a hands-on, dynamic sailing experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on what you value most – whether it’s the smooth, spacious ride of a catamaran or the traditional, engaging feel of a keelboat. Both vessels offer rewarding experiences, ensuring there’s a perfect option for every type of sailor.