catamaran sailing courses queensland

Upcoming Featured Courses  

RYA Powerboat Level II – COMING SOON! Join the Waitlist by using our Contact Us form- First 2 courses already sold out

SAILING ADVENTURES 27 May – 1 June – Brisbane to Yeppoon (able to complete RYA Competent Crew & RYA Day Skipper) 3-8 June – Yeppoon to Airlie (able to complete RYA Competent Crew & RYA Day Skipper)

2-8 Sept – Airlie to Brisbane (able to complete RYA Coastal Skipper)

RYA Competent Crew &   RYA Day Skipper 5-Day, Brisbane, live-aboard RYA courses

CATAMARAN 5-day 22-26 April – 4 places available

Cost: $2,100 (accommodation and onboard meals included)

1-day , Introduction to Sail – join a group and experience the ropes!

1 April – Easter Monday – 5 places remaining 20 April – SOLD OUT

Cost: from $360/person

To learn more and book, call us on (07) 3396 4100 or email [email protected]

Southern cross yachting – a premier sail training centre.

Brief Overview

Southern Cross Yachting is Australia’s original, accredited RYA sail training centre, established in 1996. We offer one-day, weekend and five-day sailing courses, private tuition on clients’ sail and power boats, bareboat charter preparation courses and offshore mile builders along the southeast Queensland coast.

Our shore-based theory courses are offered to build navigation, safety and maintenance skills for sail and power boat operators. These include classroom and online navigation, sailing lessons, marine radio, safety & sea survival, diesel engine, radar and yacht maintenance are some of the topics covered in our shore-based theory courses. Come join us for some fun on the water!

Our RYA training centre office is located at East Coast Marina in Wynnum-Manly, QLD.

Southern Cross Yachting provides a one-stop shop for all of your yacht training needs! We’ll be happy to help you get started on your next great adventure!

Get in Touch Today!

Interested in taking sailing lessons? Contact Southern Cross Yachting and learn a new skill or brush up on old ones. Call us at 07 3396 4100 .

About Our Courses – For any level

Looking for a new challenge? Or, brushing up on existing yacht skills? With something for everyone, there’s sure to be a course that’s perfect for you. Southern Cross Yachting offers a variety of courses to help you get started. From beginner to advanced levels, our sailing school is the best choice around.

Our most popular courses include an introduction to yacht sailing covering the basics of handling a yacht and sails; a snippet of navigation, where you’ll observe how to chart a course and navigate safely as well as essential skills like tying knots and anchoring. We also have more specialized courses like advanced navigation, meteorology, and marine engines, all leading to the highly skilled Yachtmaster qualification.

Sailing is one of the most freeing and exhilarating experiences you can have on the water, and with our beginner sailing courses, it’s easier than ever to learn the basics and get started. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing around the world or just want to enjoy some time on the water, our sailing lessons will give you the skills and confidence you need to make your dreams a reality.  From learning how to steer a yacht to understanding boat safety, our beginner courses cover everything you need to get started.  Carried out over a single day, weekend or 5-day block, each course requires no prior knowledge or experience.

Intermediate

Let’s set sail! Our range of intermediate courses are for those with crewing confidence who are ready to take their skills to the next level.  Students can use their existing sea time to jump up to the next level, RYA Day Skipper as well as international qualifications which are used to charter yachts.  RYA qualifications and certifications are often used to gain discounts by many marine insurers. Complete your course in Manly or the Whitsundays. We guarantee you’ll have a blast and come away feeling confident and ready to take on the world (or at least the open seas). So what are you waiting for? Set sail today!

Sail away to your next adventure with our range of advanced sailing courses! Choose between skippering a yacht across the pristine coastal waters or taking an intensive course covering the more advanced coastal techniques including position fixing, course shaping and more. Advanced sailors can prep and take a Yachtmaster exam to test their skippering ability or partake in an RYA training centre Coastal Skipper course, each over a five-day block.

For those who have a passion for the open waters, take on the fast-track sailing lessons courses. These courses will have you sailing and navigating the seas in no time. Our bespoke Yachtmaster fast track course is designed to transform a novice sailor into an internationally recognised RYA Yachtmaster.  Please note, the fast track is based around an individual’s prior experience and knowledge and time frames may differ.

Beginner Learn to Sail

Intermediate Learn to Skipper

Advanced Yachtmaster

Charter Sailing Adventures

Specialty Courses Personal Training

Theory Courses Online or Classroom

Choose a Southern Cross Yacht Charter For a Perfect Day Away

Looking for a unique way to celebrate a special occasion? Or maybe you’re just looking for a fun and different way to spend a day with friends or family.  Either way, a yacht charter from Southern Cross Yachting is the perfect solution.  We offer a variety of charters that can take you to some of the most beautiful spots in the Moreton Bay Region.

Best of all, you can leave your devices at home and enjoy the ocean like never before.  Whether you’re looking for a special family outing or a corporate and team-building experience, our yacht charters will be fun & educational for everyone.  So what are you waiting for?  Contact us today and let us show you how much fun sailing can be!

Choose Our Sail Training Centre

When it comes to planning your next yachting adventure, there’s no better company to choose than Southern Cross Yachting.  We have a fleet of beautiful boats that are perfect for any occasion, and our experienced staff will make sure your trip is hassle-free. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a fun-filled group vacation whilst educating yourself, license requirements or lower your private yacht insurances, we’ve got you covered.

Introduction to Sailing (1-day)

Wynnum-Manly, Brisbane, QLD

Either saturday or sunday every 2 weeks.

This popular, 1-day course provides an introduction to sail cruising for novices.  By the end of the course you will have experienced steering a yacht, sail handling, ropework and be aware of safety onboard.  

Bareboat Charter Preparation

This one-day, nil experience required course will have you on your way to the most enjoyable sailing holiday imaginable.  You will gain knowledge to safely and competently charter your own desired yacht by providing practice picking up moorings, planning your trip, advice on what to expect and what to pack and take.

Sailing Adventures and Mile Building Passages

East coast of australia.

These voyages are ideal for completing qualifying passages for Yachtmaster exams or for simply gaining experience offshore with an experienced instructor.

Experienced

There’s no better place to start sailing than with Southern Cross Yachting. Established in 1996, we’re Australia’s original international RYA training centre. With over twenty years of experience, you know you’re in good hands.

For over 25 years, Southern Cross Yachting has been the trusted provider of marine training for students from all over the world. With over 10,000 satisfied customers, we’ve helped people of all ages and experience levels gain the skills and confidence they need to enjoy the open water.

Industry Recognised

Southern Cross Yachting is proud to work closely with some of the best marine industry peers in the business. We believe that by collaborating with charter companies, brokerages and experts, we can provide our clients with the best possible experience.

Book A Sailing Course With Us Today!

Whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced sailor looking to brush up on your sail boat training skills, Southern Cross Yachting has a course for you. Or if you’re looking to sail away with loved ones for the day, call us at 07 3396 4100 or use the contact page .

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!

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,

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

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!

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Catamaran Sailing School

Introducing the fantastic opportunity to undertake rya training courses on board a cruising catamaran. these rya courses are delivered on board seawind multihulls and are ideal for those thinking of buying or chartering a multihull either in australia or abroad. whether you plan to skipper the boat yourself or help someone else crew there is a course that is right for you..

Multihull Central forms partnership with Pacific Sailing School

PSS Principle Terry Wise "I am delighted to be providing training for Multihull Central, a very successful group with over $17 million in sales last year. Their luxury boats attract people to the lifestyle, many of whom have not sailed before." Richard Falk, RYA Director of Training and Qualifications said "The multihull market continues to grow at a very healthy rate and to attract a whole new range of sailors to the sport. I am delighted that Pacific Sailing School and Multihull Central have been able to work together to bring RYA Training in Australia into this exciting and rapidly growing area of sailing. There is no doubt that new owners of multihulls will benefit greatly from the expert tuition that comes from an RYA recognised training centre and its experienced instructors." 

The Multihull students will join a Seawind cruising catamaran and depart from the Pacific Sailing School base to sail offshore to Pittwater for five days of training and then return with another offshore sail to Sydney. 

Pacific Sailing School RYA COMPETENT CREW COURSE

Great course for beginners and families. This course is for those wanting to be active crew members rather than just passengers. By the end of the course you should be able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout  and assist in the daily routines of life sailing onboard where safety is paramount.

RYA Competent Crew Course – Practical (5 day, 4 nights on board)

• $2,460 on Seawind 1170 includes provisioning on board
• $2,460 on Seawind 1260 includes provisioning on board

Pacific Sailing School RYA DAY SKIPPER COURSE

Suits those preparing to skipper their own cruising catamaran.

This program of courses is designed to teach you to be the “Skipper” or take charge and combines both theoretical and on- water education. The skipper is responsible for the safety of the yacht and all crew. These responsibilities include weather forecasting, victualling, engine maintenance, sail selection and vessel handling, passage planning, watch keeping, navigation and pilotage.  The package varies depending on previous experience.

• $390 includes kit – express posted overnight
• ‘On Line’ $750 includes kit – express posted overnight
• ‘Blended learning’ – online with 4 x 3 hour virtual zoom sessions ( see Calendar ) with a RYA Yachtmaster Instructor $1395 – includes kit
• Add $105 AS registration, Insurance, Logbook and certificates.
• 5% discount on program cost for 2 or more persons
• Single supplement for private cabin POA

multihullcentral.com

One day handover training.

This one-day handover to your vessel is an Introduction to your safety equipment, the engine, sails, basic boat handling skills and passage planning.

Fee $790 for 6 hours training on your own boat

Course Dates

To see latest course dates follow this link: https://pacificsailingschool.com.au/calendar/

Expression of Interest

For more information about the courses, dates or for any other information please leave us some contact details and we will get back to you ASAP.

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1300 852 620

Multihull Central - Sydney Multihull Central Marina 20 Chapman Road Annandale, NSW 2038

02 9810 5014

Multihull Central - Gold Coast The Boat Works North Yard | 199 Beattie Rd Coomera, QLD 4209

07 3393 5550

Multihull Central - New Zealand Unit 25/25 Baffin Street Marina Building, Port Opua-Bay of Islands, New Zealand

+64 274 542 242

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Sailing Academy

Set sail for excellence.

The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron’s Sailing Academy, is a premier institution in the world of sailing, and offers a comprehensive platform for individuals eager to learn to sail, providing top-notch coaching and training programs. With its stunning location along the Moreton Bay, the Academy offers an idyllic setting for beginners and experienced sailors alike to embark on their sailing journey. The instructing and coaching team at RQYS Academy comprises seasoned professionals who are not only passionate about the sport but also dedicated to imparting their knowledge and skills to aspiring sailors. Whether you’re a novice eager to hoist your first sail or a seasoned sailor seeking to fine-tune your skills, RQYS Academy’s commitment to excellence and its team of seasoned Instructors and coaches make it the ultimate destination for all things sailing.

What we offer

Learn to sail.

Sailing education for all ages, from kids to adults, fostering both recreational joy and competitive excellence.

Performance Coaching

Achieve peak performance with RQYS' professional coaching, hone skills and enhance your competitiveness on the water.

RQ Youth Squad

Join RQYS Youth Squad for weekly training and become your best in competitive youth sailing.

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Adult Learn to Sail Courses

The learn to sail courses offered are ‘start sailing’..

Start Sailing provides a safe & enjoyable introduction to dinghy sailing for beginners. Participants will have fun on the water and at the same time acquire the necessary skills to be responsible and competent in a boat.

The course includes an introduction to boat handling skills & essential safety knowledge that will allow participants the freedom of sailing small boats with guidance from an instructor or coach.

These class acts as a platform to more advanced training courses or alternatively, once you have completed Start Sailing 2 you should be ready to join our Sailing Club straight away!

Adult courses are held over a single weekend from 9am to 4pm. The courses are run in 14ft Vagabond dinghies and a safety boat is always on hand to ensure safety.

Once you have some proficiency in Sailing you can then try out our Sailing Club activities . Go to the page at this link for further information.

Sailing Club and training Calendar for to From January 2023

Upcoming Courses

If the course you would like is not currently advertised, please contact us and we will make sure we let you know when the next suitable course is announced.

FAQ’s

What age is this course suitable for? Adult courses are for anyone 14 years of age or over.

What is a Vagabond dinghy? A small, light boat that you generally rig ashore and launch every time you go sailing. They are big enough that there will be two kids to a boat learning to sail as a team. They are great fun to sail with an immediate response. However, there are some conditions where you will need to be quick and agile to balance the boat. If you don’t mind ending up in the water occasionally, dinghies might be just the thing for you.

What is the Course Syllabus? Basic boat handling skills Safety equipment and clothing Rigging & preparing a boat Ropework and basic knots Sailing techniques, tacking Rescue Procedures, towing Launching & recovery Sailing Theory, no go zone Wind aware, tides & currents

What happens in bad weather? If conditions are considered to be unsuitable for safety, a session will be called off before or during that session. If the session is called off beforehand it will be rescheduled to a later date.

What do I bring? Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bathing suit, a warm jumper, shoes that can get wet, a water bottle, a change of clothes (minimal wardrobe needed) and a spray jacket. Be sure to pack this in a flexible soft bag. Please avoid bringing valuables.

What about meals? For weekend courses, our Restaurant and Bar is open for lunch and drinks after the sailing. Students are provided with a discount voucher to use at the Restaurant.

How do I sign up? Follow the link at the top of this page. Once you have signed up we will contact to arrange payment. Payment can be made via credit card in person or over the phone or via bank transfer.

Where do I start? Queensland Cruising Yacht Club is located in Sinbad Street, Shorncliffe on the banks of Cabbage Tree Creek. Dinghy courses operate out of the Training Shed. As you enter the Club through the pedestrian gates, turn right and you will find the green shed at the far end of the site.

What happens if we can’t get to every lesson? Whilst there are no refunds for missed lessons, our Instructors will try and ensure everyone reaches the end of the course. If required a ‘make-up’ lesson may be arranged at the end of the course.

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ADULT LEARN TO SAIL PROGRAMS 

Adult Sailing Pathway

**Please note we do not offer Bare Boat Sailing Certification

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST – Register your interest for one of our many Adult Learn to Sail courses or experiences and we’ll contact you when the next course is available.” BOOK HERE

BEGINNERS LEARN TO SAIL (16+)

Southport Yacht Club is dedicated to sharing the joy and freedom of sailing with the wider community. The Beginners Learn to Sail course is our way of introducing new sailors to the sport and lifestyle in a safe, social, and non-competitive manner. The course is catered to both novice and intermediate sailors. Whether you have no prior experience and wish to enter the world of sailing, or have sailed before but would like to refresh and improve your current skills. Our highly experienced instructors teach this course in the club’s dinghy boats following the Australian Sailings certified training syllabus, Start Sailing 1 & 2 . The course aim is to have all sailors confident and comfortable to purchase their own boat and safely operate it independently.

Course Outcome:  Australian Sailing Certificate: Start Sailing Certificates 1 & 2

When:  Sundays, May 12th, 19th and 26th (3 Sessions) BOOK HERE

Location: Oxenford Watersports Centre, 33 Watersport Lane, Oxenford QLD 4210

SHE SAILS OXENFORD

When: Next Course = Selected Weekends. BOOK HERE

Where: Watersports Centre – 33 Watersport Lane, Oxenford QLD 4210

Time: 12pm – 3pm

Cost: $60 per person

All Females 14+ welcome! (some months ages 7yrs+, check booking page)

Basic theory followed by 1-1.5hrs on-water sailing with an instructor, and finishing with a social (Complimentary drink and nibbles)

SOCIAL SAILING OXENFORD

When: Sunday, once a month BOOK HERE

Time: 12:30pm – 3:30pm

Everyone is welcome age 7yrs+ (under 16yrs  must be accompanied by a parent)

Learn how rig/de-rig, head out sailing for 2hrs with the support of an instructor nad finish with a complimentary sausage sizzle.

PRIVATE LESSONS

(Private Sail Coaching Lessons)

Adults (Ages 12+) learn in RS Quest Dinghy or Hobie Wave Catamaran @ Oxenford Lake

Kids (Ages 7-12) learn in a Tacker Dinghy or Optimist @ Hollywell Sailing Squadron or Oxenford Lake

Email sailing. [email protected]

Phone: (07 ) 5655 3368

Please enquire for any other class of boat.

New Keelboat Program

KEELBOAT SESSIONS

(Keel Boat Scheme) For Adults 16 years and older

Southport Yacht Club offers Keelboat sailing experiences as an introduction to sailing keelboats on the Broadwater. Participants will be sailing in either a Melges 24 or Blazer 23 with a qualified instructor. This is a great way to either start your sailing journey or improve on existing skills and knowledge with regular opportunities to get on the water. Recommended beginner sailors complete multiple sessions prior to undertaking a Keelboat Crewing & Helming Course.

When:  Varied dates and times ongoing BOOK HERE

Time:  2 hour sessions

Cost:   $70 per person per session

Location:  1 Marina Cres, Hollywell QLD 4216

KEELBOAT CREWING & HELMING

Southport Yacht Club offers an Australian Sailing Start Sailing Certificate under the Keelboat scheme.  This combined course introduces participants to sailing on small keelboats focusing on crewing and helming, sailing on either a Melges 24 or Blazer 23.  The aim of the course is to develop and build on existing sailing knowledge and skills in busy tidal waterways.

The course is recommended for those with prior sailing experience, or who have completed the Australian Sailing Start Sailing 1 & 2 course.

When: 2024 schedule will be released on January EXPRESSION of INTEREST

Time:  9:00am-3:00pm

Cost:   $480 per person

KEELBOAT SKIPPER

(Keel Boat Scheme) For Adults 16years and older

Southport Yacht Club offers a two-day Australian Sailing advanced course under the Keelboat scheme for those wishing to operate their own Keelboat or Trailable Yacht with a crew of your own.  The aim of this course is to advance your sailing skills and safety knowledge to enable you to skipper unsupervised in sheltered waters. Participants must have completed the Keelboat Crewing & Helming Course.

There are currently no course dates scheduled for 2023.  Courses will begin in 2024.

Please enter your expression of interest here: SAILING EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

When:  TBA.

Time:  9am-4pm

Location:  Hollywell Sailing Squadron

PRIVATE COACHING

If the above course dates don’t necessarily fit in with your schedule we can certainly tailor make a course around your availability with private lessons either during the week or on weekends.  Private lessons are also great for sailors who would like some one on one coaching in their own boats with their own crews, or for families combining juniors and adults on the same boat. Fees are based on an hourly rate, and we have a number of Yachting Australia Accredited Sailing Instructors to choose from, including past National Champions and our High Performance Racing team.  All inquiries please contact the Sailing Office: [email protected] .

BOOKING PROCEDURE: Adult courses are for those from 16 years of age. All courses are subject to minimum and maximum enrollments in order to proceed and early bookings are strongly advised to avoid disappointment.  In the event that a scheduled session is abandoned due to weather alternative sessions will be scheduled at no extra cost, “Catch up sessions” will not be available due to each course being limited.

REFUND POLICY: In the event that a client unilaterally withdraws from a booked course, we reserve the right to withhold all or part of any fees paid.  Alternatively a client may transfer their payment towards another course if we are able to fill their position on the course.  If less than 14 days notice is given of intention to withdraw we reserve the right to withhold the payed 50% Deposit. Please contact the Sailing Office to request a form or download the form from the website. (Please Note: Prices were correct at time of printing but may change without notice).

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South Passage adventure under sail

To create positive change in the lives of everyone who experiences South Passage: Adventure Under Sail - Experience of a Lifetime.

Experience the adventure of sailing the traditional

Gaff rigged schooner - south passage, we welcome aboard, schools, youth organisations, the general public & corporate clients.

OUR VISION IS: To create positive change in the lives of everyone who experiences South Passage - Adventure Under Sail.

OUR MISSION IS: To operate a voyage program that facilitates and embodies the R.O.P.E.S Program in all Voyagers.

OUR PURPOSE: To provide a safe and challenging experience, using the ship as a medium to develop leadership, initiative, independence and self-discipline.

OUR PROGRAM: ROPES: Respect, Opportunity, Participation, Enjoyment, Safety

Everyone is a Participant in ROPES

We offer participants from all backgrounds a unique growth opportunity where they are placed outside their comfort zone, experiencing the force of nature and the benefits of team work.

South Passage - Adventure under Sail’s ROPES program is central to the achievement of our Vision and Purpose.

It focuses our efforts on conducting voyages that deliver in terms of the experience for both our crew and our passengers. Everyone is a participant in ROPES.

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All Courses

RYA Training (internationally recognised)

Whether you have never been on a yacht, or you just want to learn a bit more, we offer professionally run courses which will give you internationally recognised qualifications.

If you are planning to charter locally or internationally, we can offer courses which will give you the knowledge and ability to make it safe and enjoyable, as well as the certificate to present to the charter company.

Our practical courses are run on “Mohawk” a Bennetau 40.7, which is ideal for training in a safe and comfortable environment. Our training ground is the Whitsunday region in Queensland. All courses are run from our base at Coral Sea Marina in Airlie Beach.

Your instructors are RYA qualified and will ensure your learning experience is fun, and exciting. We adapt the courses to suit all learning styles and personal preferences. The accommodation and food will set the ideal learning environment to ensure that you have a fantastic week with us.

RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship

RYA START YACHTING COURSE

RYA Coastal Skipper- Coral Sea Marina to Percy Island

RYA COMPETENT CREW COURSE

RYA DAYSKIPPER PRACTICAL COURSE

RYA COASTAL SKIPPER PRACTICAL COURSE

RYA Day Skipper Shorebased Course | on-Line

RYA COASTAL SKIPPER / YACHTMASTER OFFSHORE THEORY COURSE | ON-LINE

RYA YACHTMASTER PREP / EXAM

SEA SAFETY AND SURVIVAL

ICC COURSE AND ASSESSMENT

RYA DIESEL ENGINE COURSE

MARINE RADIO LICENCE and EXAM( HF & VHF )

Boat handling course

Ladies only sailing course- learn to crew, skipper or just have fun!

Coral Sea Marina Berth D30 + D31 Shingley Drive Airlie Beach QLD 4802 AUSTRALIA

Postal address PO Box 890 Cannonvale QLD 4802 AUSTRALIA

Lat: 20° 16′ South Long: 148° 43′  East

Phone: +61 434 790 402‬

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Sailing Courses

If you have always wanted to take control and sail the seas, the Whitsundays has the right course for you! If you are inexperienced and want to learn the ropes and basic sailing skills, you can join the introduction to sailing course which will show you all the basics from the ground up and get you feeling comfortable at the helm. For those who want a little bit extra, opt for the commercial crew course which will get you ready to be an active crew member!

Learn to sail in paradise and walk away with real sailing experience!

• Learn yacht training safety, regulations and manoeuvres
• Enjoy adventure and discovery for 2 days and nights!
• Visit top Whitsunday locations such as Whitehaven Beach, Hill Inlet Lookout, and more!
• Walk away knowing the ins and outs of sailing!
• Learn in one of the best sailing locations in the world

Note: Course work must be completed online before arriving at the vessel! (More details below under "IMPORTANT INFORMATION")

A fun and practical course, introducing you to the overall running of a yacht!

• Lean theory and skills to sailing
• Train from on board Eureka II
• International Yacht Training program syllabus
• Visit top Whitsundays locations as added bonus
• Walk away with sailing experience and knowledge!

WE ARE READY TO HELP YOU

• Our experts are Based in Airlie Beach
• We can build packages to save you $$$
• Whitsundays biggest boat cooperative

Quick Enquiry

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Sailing Whitsundays acknowledges the Ngaro, Gia and Juru people as the Traditional Owners of the lands and seas in which we operate. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations peoples.

ASA Sailing School for Catamaran Cruisers & Liveaboards

Build sailing techniques & prepare for the sailing lifestyle.

ASA sailing school & Live-Aboard Instructors

A catamaran sailing school was unheard of years ago. In the early days of Catamaran Guru, catamaran experts, Stephen & Estelle Cockcroft kept their cruising kitty going by teaching American Sailing Association courses and offered liveaboard orientation experiences aboard their monohull and later their catamarans. They know by experience that a liveaboard seaschool is the best way to learn to sail.

Though no longer offering instruction or liveaboard orientation experiences themselves, their passion to help others follow their nautical dreams of yacht ownership has kept them involved in sail training and hands-on cruising lifestyle experiences.

Why catamaran sailing school is important

The ASA sail training courses provide a good grounding for all new sailors and advanced courses increase competency and confidence. While learning to sail monohulls will provide many useful basics of sailing knowledge, instruction aboard a catamaran, and even better aboard your catamaran or a similar model is the best possible scenario.

Getting yacht insurance , especially a policy you can afford, requires proven related boating experience. The only way to get that experience safely is with a catamaran sailing school that offers liveaboard hands-on experiences.

Another vital role sea school plays for cruisers is getting the enthusiasm and confidence of the first mate up. While not always the case, often one partner in a sailing duo is the driving force of the cruising life dream while the other is often reluctant. Here are our tips on overcoming the reluctance of a catamaran cruising partner .

The top tip is to participate in a liveaboard experience with a seaschool even before you buy a boat. 

Weeklong liveaboard sailing school is invaluable for anyone who plans to own their own boat, but especially those who plan to be full-time cruisers. During these hands-on sailing experiences, your seaschool instructor combines our real-life practical methods with the most up-to-date sailing theory courses. These experiences set you up to enjoy a stress-free cruising lifestyle. Especially when you can train aboard your own boat, you can become comfortable with your equipment and configurations for operation and safety.

You not only learn how to be a team as you sail, anchor, trim sails, and navigate safely from point A to point B, you also get your questions answered by experienced liveaboard sailors about how to downsize, provision for long cruises, and mostly, how to enjoy watching the sunset in a gorgeous anchorage with your favorite beverage in hand.

CATAMARAN SAILING SCHOOLS & LIVEABOARD EXPERIENCES

Sail with us to learn.

Week-Long Liveaboard Courses Rare RYA Classes & Certifications

Catamaran Guru’s real-life practical methods combined with up-to-date sailing theory in lessons aboard recent model catamarans…or your own boat! 

Prepare for certifications or take the first step aboard to embark on your dream life of boat ownership or cruising

Classes in S Florida and the Bahamas.

Our Seaschool Students Excel As Sailors & Cruisers

We are very proud of our former seaschool students. Most of them have embraced yachting, sailing, and cruising in some way or another. Many of our graduates have successfully own their own boats. Some are long-term cruisers or charter boat owners and some have even done successful circumnavigations. Others have done long-term sabbaticals and several liveaboard school graduates have even moved on to successful careers in the marine industry as yacht brokers, charter yacht operators, and charter management.

got questions? contact us!

Estelle Cockcroft

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For more than 30 years, we have been a part of the catamaran community and created Catamaran Guru™ to encourage and educate all the aspiring sailing out there. We understand the dream of traveling the world by catamaran and created a one-stop-shop to make that dream a reality for you.

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Catamaran Sailing Courses - Blue Water Sailing School

Our Cruising Catamaran sailing course (Course A Plus Catamaran) is a weeklong live-aboard catamaran cruising course, offered at the Fort Lauderdale base and the U.S. Virgin Islands base. The sailing course combines the Basic Sailing (ASA 101), Basic Coastal Cruising (ASA103), Bareboat Chartering (ASA 104), and Cruising Catamaran (ASA 114) levels of the ASA curriculum.

We are also one of the only sailing schools to offer a course in advanced catamaran sailing (Course C+ Cat: Advanced Catamaran Skipper) . During this weeklong live-aboard catamaran cruising course you’ll sail from Fort Lauderdale, across the Gulf Stream to the Bahamas, and back again. Along the way, you’ll gain the hands-on experience you need to pass the Coastal Navigation (ASA 105), Advanced Coastal Cruising (ASA 106), and Cruising Catamaran (ASA 114) ASA certification levels.

Please see ASA Course Descriptions for details on each certification standard.

You can find information about all Blue Water Sailing School courses in our course catalog . For course availability and dates, please see our schedule .

Catamaran Sales

Well Suited , The Catamaran Company's new team concept in brokerage design, is made up of three Yacht Brokers, a Charter Broker, a Yacht Administrator and a Service Manager who all work together to insure that our Buyers, Sellers and Renters have the best possible experience. Our top priority is to insure that the catamaran you bring home with you is well suited for your lifestyle, not only for today but one that strategically fits into your long term goals.

The concept truly is cutting edge in that it focuses on the strength of the team, customer service and long term repeat business. We typically find that a yacht owner buys a new boat every three to five years. Well Suited takes the necessary time and devotes the human resources to assist in your long term plans. What you need/want today ... what you are looking to grow into or downsize after realizing a dream ... proper market placement ... resale value, etc.

For more information, please Contact Us

We actually went somewhere (Key Largo), rather than returning to the dock each evening. The course was made to be an adventure, as well as simply instructional. The weather was “made to order” — sun and gentle breeze Saturday through Wednesday, then Force 8 for our ‘foul weather instruction’ on Thursday.

I thought it was an excellent, challenging course. It definitely wasn’t a “cruise.” The instructor expected a lot from the students. I like that.

I have nothing but the utmost praise for your entire operation and the quality of the instruction that I received. Al Hatch is a consummate instructor and brings to this activity a love and a passion that is genuine and expansive. I hope to be able to return to Blue Water to experience some of the higher-level courses of instruction, and I certainly would have no trouble at all recommending your company to anyone.

+61 7 5478 2299

RYA Day Skipper

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Day Skipper course is the gateway to mastering the art of sailing and becoming a confident and capable skipper. This course is designed for aspiring sailors who wish to elevate their expertise in yacht handling, navigation, and overall seamanship.  Get ready to set sail on a transformative journey towards becoming a skilled and certified Day Skipper with the RYA.  Did you know you can get your ICC with a Day Skipper certification?  Ask us how.

Select CATAMARAN or MONOHULL and then choose your START DATE . 

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COURSE DETAILS

Course Duration:  5 Days Start and Finish Times:  Start at 8:30am on the first day, and finish by 4:30pm on the last day of the course. Minimum Age:  16 years Course Format:  On the water, on either a yacht or catamaran. Prerequisites:  A basic ability in practical sailing. A minimum of 5 days, 100 miles and 4 night hours onboard a sailing yacht. Navigation and theory to the  RYA Day Skipper Shorebased  level.

By the end of this course, the successful Day Skipper will feel confident to undertake shorter passages over a 24-hour period in familiar waterss. Successful completion means that you can charter a yacht worldwide with confidence.

The RYA Day Skipper and Bare Boat practical course is designed to teach you essential practical skippering and sailing techniques. Completion of this course gives you an internationally recognized qualification for bare boat chartering.

In this course, you will navigate and take control of a yacht on a short passage under the guidance of a highly qualified instructor to ensure that your first, perhaps hesitant, steps as a skipper are taken in safety.

As a skipper you must be completely responsible for the management of a yacht. Thus, the syllabus of this course also includes chartwork, electronic navigation, meteorology, basic engine checks, passage planning, preparing the yacht for sea, and rules of the road. In addition, night sailing is undertaken to give you a taste of pilotage in the dark

COURSE SYLLABUS

Whilst at sea, your instructor will cover subjects such as watch keeping, deck work, sail trim and how to cope in emergency situations. You will also be given opportunities to practice your boat handling in a variety of mooring situations.

Here’s a summary of what you will learn:

• Preparation for Sea
• Meteorology
• Rules of the Road
• Maintenance
• Radio Operation
• Victualling
• Handling Under Motor and Power
• plus much more

Living onboard throughout the course, each night is spent in a new place, allowing you to experience the delights of a real cruise. You will visit many of the quiet bays, anchorages and yacht harbour’s of Moreton Bay, Southeast corner of Queensland or the Whitsundays (depending on chosen course) and in the evenings there is time to relax and reflect on the events of the day.

Click below to view the  detailed  course syllabus for  RYA  Day Skipper Practical:

SLEEPING & EATING

Accommodation:   HAVE YOUR OWN SPACE AS STANDARD OPTION! We are the only company in Queensland providing your own space to sleep as standard.  You do not have to pay extra for the no “no snuggling with strangers option”. No more cramming into the berth with a stranger, you will have your own space to sleep.  Examples of your own space would be single bunks, or on the saloon bed.  

DO YOU WANT YOUR OWN CABIN?  We have that as an option as well.  If you want to save some money, share a private cabin with a partner or friend. 

Food and Dietary:  Food is included in the price of the course, aside from one evening meal ashore at a local yacht club or restaurant. We will accommodate your dietary preferences including gluten free, vegan/vegetarian, lactose free, etc. You will receive a link to nominate your dietary preferences shortly after booking in for the course.

Sailing Courses AND YACHT CHARTER

Racing and short courses, about sunshine sailing australia.

Sunshine Sailing Australia's sailing school is recognised as one of Australia’s leading sail training and experience providers. With sailing lessons taught in the class room and on the waters around Mooloolaba, Gold Coast, Whitsundays Islands, Lord Howe Island and Brisbane.

Sunshine Sailing Australia

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