learn-to-sail-sunshine-coast

First Experience

RYA Start Yachting

Embark on your sailing journey with the RYA Start Yachting course, the perfect introduction for complete beginners to the exciting world of yachting. This hands-on, two-day course is designed to give you a taste of life on a cruising yacht, requiring no previous experience. Under the guidance of our expert instructors, you will learn the fundamentals of sailing, including how to steer a yacht, handle sails, and basic ropework. You’ll also gain essential safety knowledge, covering the use of lifejackets, harnesses, and what to do in an emergency. By the end of the course, you’ll have a foundational understanding of yachting, the confidence to be a useful crew member, and the RYA Start Yachting certificate, your first step on the globally recognised RYA training ladder.

YACHT & CATAMARAN ESSENTIALS:

Get to know the basics, from parts of the boat and essential sea terms to understanding the rigging and sails.

HANDLING THE HELM:

Take control and learn to steer the yacht effectively under both sail and engine power.

SALES & ROPES:

Get hands-on with the basics of sail handling and learn fundamental knots essential for every sailor.

SAFETY AT SEA:

 Understand crucial safety procedures, including personal safety equipment and what to do in an emergency.

BEING A CREW MEMBER:

Learn the essentials of keeping a lookout and how to contribute as a valuable and aware member of the crew.

Imagine the thrill of feeling the wind in your sails, the gentle sway of the boat, and the vast expanse of the open water before you. ASA 101 isn’t just a course; it’s the key to unlocking a world of adventure, freedom, and connection with nature. It’s about discovering a new passion, building confidence, and joining a community of like-minded individuals who share a love for the sea. Take the helm, embrace the challenge, and let ASA 101 be your first step towards a lifetime of unforgettable sailing experiences

Course Duration

2-Days 

Start and Finish Times

Start at 08:30 am – 4:00 PM Last Day

Minimum Age

16 years

Course Format

On water aboard a catamaran or yacht 35′ or larger.  Over 90% of time on-water, 10% on dock or classroom.  

Accomodation

This is a liveaboard course, but it will return to the marina each night.  If you would like to stay ashore, it is an option.

Course Highlights

  • Experienced Instructors: Learn from our passionate and certified RYA instructors.
  • Small Class Sizes: Benefit from personalized attention and maximize your learning.
  • Beautiful Location: Enjoy practical training in the pristine waters of the Sunshine Coast.
  • Internationally Recognized Certification: Gain a qualification respected worldwide.
  • Comprehensive Learning Materials: Access all necessary resources to support your studies.
  • Free Online Course: Receive free access to the ASA 103 online pre-course.

Who Is This Course For?

Absolute Beginners: If you have zero sailing experience, this is the perfect starting point. The course is designed from the ground up for those who have never set foot on a yacht.

Curious Tasters: Wondering if yachting is the right sport or hobby for you? This two-day course gives you a hands-on, immersive experience without the commitment of a longer program.

Future Crew Members: For individuals who want to join friends or family on sailing trips and contribute as a helpful and confident member of the crew, rather than just being a passenger.

Aspiring Skippers: This is the first official step on the globally recognised RYA training pathway, providing the foundational knowledge needed before progressing to more advanced courses like RYA Competent Crew.

Holiday Sailors: An ideal option for those planning a sailing holiday in destinations like the Whitsundays or beyond, who want to learn the basics to get more actively involved and enhance their experience.

What Are The Pre-requisites for RYA Start Yachting?

  • None

Yearly pricing

Pricing

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Basic

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$290

Pro

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$790

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Why choose sunshine sailing australia

With The Experience Comes Excellence.

Our school is an RYA foundational school in Australia, and has been teaching people to sail since 1995.  With 29+ years of experience, and over 15K sailors trained, we know a thing or two about sailing.  

Lowest Student / Instructor Ratio

We are the only RYA school in Queensland that has a 4:1 Student to Instructor ratio as standard. What does this mean for you? This means more room on the boat, no sharing beds, and more time for instruction. You are getting more training for the money than any other school.

Instructors Dual RYA/ASA Certified

Our instructors are not only experienced sailors but also hold dual certifications from both the RYA and ASA, the two largest sail training organizations in the world. You can rest assured knowing that you will be learning from highly qualified instructors.

Queensland's Premier Catamaran Sail Training

We are the leading RYA catamaran training center in Queensland, offering more RYA courses on catamaran than anyone else. If you want to buy, charter, or sail a catamaran, we are the school that will help you increase your abilities so you can maximize your adventure.

You Become Part of Our Community

We have a strong sailing community of past and current students. Many have boats that love to have crew aboard for a daily, weekend, or somethings longer trips. We love to get together and have BBQ’s, concerts, and flotillas. What an amazing community you could be a part of, you will be welcomed with open arms.

No Sharing Beds w/Strangers

We know this might be something that would be a given, but it isn’t.  Most schools require students (strangers) to share a bed, often with a piece of cloth or a board between them.  We do not believe you should have to pay extra to have your own bed.

What our past students have to say!

What’s Included in This Package?

  • Expert instruction from certified instructors, ensuring you learn from experienced professionals.
  • All necessary safety equipment to keep you secure on the water.
  • Food and water while aboard.
  • UPF 50+ sunscreen to protect you during your time on the water.

What’s Not Included?

  • Transportation to and from the course location.
  • Meals Ashore, there will be an opportunity to go ashore for a few meals, so bring additional funds if you wish to eat ashore.
  • Personal sailing clothes, such as non-slip shoes, hats, and weather-appropriate attire.