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RYA Program

The RYA continues to expand internationally with around 2400 training centres globally including centres in NZ, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong, and of course Australia! The RYA's benchmark qualification the 'Yachtmaster' is highly respected around the world by recreational and professional mariners alike, and is recognised for commercial use on sailing vessels by AMSA in Australia.

The RYA Cruising schemes and the Australian Sailing Keelboat Program provide pathways for all levels of experience to progress seamlessly into offshore sailing, and especially to pursue international adventures & employment opportunities.

Australian Sailing is in partnership with the RYA due to its qualifications being recognised and respected around the world, and with more than 130 years experience, together we are able to provide a world-class training platform.

From your first steps on a yacht to skippering a crew across oceans; the RYA Yachtmaster™ Scheme is designed to take you from absolute beginner to highly skilled and competent sailor

FAST TRACK RYA YACHTMASTER

Course dates:, booking a course:, as keelboat syllabus, rya theory syllabus, rya practical syllabus, fast track rya yachtmaster program.

Listed here are the steps from beginner to RYA Yachtmaster. You can enter at any level and our sailing advisors are here to advise where to start depending on your knowledge level and experience.

The RYA Yachtmaster® Certificate of Competence is often the ultimate aim of aspiring skippers. It is a well known, highly respected qualification worldwide, proving your experience and competence as a skipper.

There are a number of RYA navigation courses that will help you prepare for your exam. Many RYA Yachtmaster candidates also choose to book themselves into an RYA training centre for some specialised exam preparation training, but this is not compulsory.

Program breakdown (in the above image).

This Program includes the following courses from:

The australian sailing as – keelboat program & the royal yachting association (rya) – yacht training program.

Certificates of Competence Include:

• International Certificate of Competence 
• RYA  Yachtmaster Coastal
• RYA Yachtmaster Offshore
• RYA Yachtmaster Ocean

Option 1 – Keelboat courses on our J24 Yachts (or go to Option 2 with the RYA 5 day Competent Crew on larger yachts)

Australian Sailing Keelboat Program

The knowledge to skipper and navigate your own Keelboat by day on sheltered waters

Prices when booked as a Program

Start Crewing

• 4 x 3-hour practical lesson
• 1 x theory lesson and social evening
• Lessons every day

Start Helming

• 4 x 3-hour practical lessons or 2 days

Keelboat Start Skippering

• 2 x 6 hour practical days
• 1 x Theory lesson and social evening
• Best do just before your 5-day practical Coastal Skipper

On our J24’s you will have hands-on instruction on helming (steering the boat), main sheet (controlling the power of the boat), winches (turning the boat through tacks and gybes etc) and the foredeck. After each lesson is your most important part of the day is the debriefing session with your crew and instructor at the Deck bar at the CYCA! (Home of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race). 

The sailing lessons on the J24’s are available every day except Thursdays and you can choose your lesson times. Session times are 9:00 am to 12:00 pm or 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm and weekend sessions extend to 4 pm to 7 pm during daylight saving. As we have several training yachts, booking in is really easy and flexible – all you need to do is give us a call. You can even do 2 lessons in one day if you wish.

RYA Competent Crew Practical  5 Day Practical (5 Days and 4 Nights onboard)

•  All Provisions on board inclusive
• $2350 on Monohull Beneteau 38.1
• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran  1170
• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran 1260

RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship Shorebased theory available online or virtually $390

Then the RYA Day Skipper Certifications: 

RYA  Day Skipper Shorebased Theory

• 40 hours Elearning plus 4 virtual evenings with a RYA Yacht Master Instructor 

RYA Day Skipper Practical   5 Day Practical (5 Days and 4 Nights onboard)

• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran 1170

It is recommended to complete the theory prior to the practical.

On successful completion of the RYA Day Skipper Practical, you can automatically apply to the RYA for the  ICC International Certificate of Competence  This is required to skipper your own yacht or hire a yacht or powerboat in over 140 countries. The certification is for sailing up to 24m .

Then RYA Yacht Master Certificate of Competence –  Enable the skipper to navigate and skipper on any coastal passage.

RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory

• 40 hours eLearning and 6 virtual evening sessions with an RYA Yacht Master Instructor

RYA Coastal Skipper Practical  5 days and 4 nights onboard

• $2350 on monohull Beneteau 38.1
• $2460 on Seawind Catamaran 1160

Marine Radio Licence (LROCP)

• 1-day theory and practical course
• VHF, HF and DSC
• $450 plus $85 licence fee

Australian Sailing Safety and Sea Survival

• eLearning & Practical
• Includes flare and pool session

Optional Courses 

Radar Course

Diesel Course

• 1-day course

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Course

• 40 hours plus exam
• plus Invigalator $270 per 3-hour session (only required if commercial)

RYA Exams and Commercial endorsement for Australia and International.

Included & benefits

• Free unlimited 3-hour practice sails on a standby basis for 4 weeks after Keelboat Courses
• 2 x private lessons with Keelboat Courses (normally $450 each)
• Coursepacks for all RYA virtual and online courses
• Free use of wet weather gear for Keelboat Courses
• Free introduction to boat owners as crew to race or mile builders/deliveries after SSSC is completed
• PSS is located in the CYCA and has operated from this base for over 40 years.
• Opportunities for crewing are unlimited.
• Starting on smaller yachts like our J24s and progressing to our bigger yachts provides the best outcome in sailing skills.
• Flexible course dates – can be altered with the required minimum notice as per our booking conditions
• Fast track – RYA Yachtmaster program completed in 3 months if requested

Not included:

Exam for RYA Yacht Master Offshore Certificate of Competence

• The exam is independent and approximately $500 is paid directly to the RYA
• PSS registration, Insurance, logbook and certificate fees $105
• Textbooks (if required) approximately $230

Practice Sails 

Unlimited and available on a standby basis for 6 weeks on our J24 Yachts.

ICC Assessment

ICC assessment cost is included in the 5 day practical assessment.

On successful completion of the RYA Day Skipper practical, ask about the ICC International Certificate of Competence. During the RYA Day skipper practical course you will be assessed for your theory, sailing and seamanship skills. This is a pass or fail and a pass is the minimum requirement for the ICC.

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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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• +61 2 9969 8590
• [email protected]
• Mon - Sun 9:00 - 1700

Yachtmaster Fast Track

Intensive programmes to get you certified fast..

A Flying Fish Yachtmaster Fast Track course is a professional sailing programme packed with training and adventure. 

The course follows a balanced schedule of practical and theoretical training meticulously planned to take you from zero to competent, qualified Yachtmaster in a matter of weeks.

Choose Yachtmaster Coastal, Offshore, or Ocean Fast Track depending on the level of qualification you want to achieve. Day Skipper to Yachtmaster Fast Track is for experienced Day Skippers.

Choose Your Programme

Yachtmaster Coastal Fast Track

The Yachtmaster Coastal Fast-Track in Sydney takes you from novice sailor to RYA Yachtmaster Coastal Certificate of Competence.

Yachtmaster Offshore Fast Track

The Flying Fish Yachtmaster Offshore Fast Track in Sydney takes you from novice sailor to the RYA Yachtmaster Certificate of Competence.

Yachtmaster Ocean Fast Track

The Yachtmaster Ocean Fast Track in Sydney first trains you for your RYA Yachtmaster Offshore Certificate. Then, you go on to learn celestial navigation and complete an ocean-qualifying passage in preparation for the RYA Yachtmaster Ocean oral exam.

Day Skipper to Yachtmaster Fast Track

Dayskipper to Yachtmaster Fast-track is designed for confident sailors who have completed RYA Day Skipper or have previous experience as skipper in sheltered waters. It provides an efficient pathway to the Yachtmaster Offshore certificate.

World-Class Sailing Destination.

Flying Fish Sailing is based in Middle Harbour, one of the most picturesque parts of Sydney’s amazing harbour.

Port Jackson, which includes Sydney Harbour, Middle Harbour and North Harbour covers an area of 55 km² and is the largest natural deep-water harbour in the world.  

According to Trip Advisor Sydney is also the world’s most beautiful harbour . It has so many gorgeous inlets and bays and the fabulous Harbour Bridge and Opera House are just the icing on the cake! Sydney also has more species of marine life than any other harbour in the world – 613 identified so far and still counting. 

With an average daytime summer temperature of 25  degrees and superb sailing conditions , year-round Sydney Harbour is perhaps also the best place in the world to learn to sail. We certainly think so! 

Australia's Top Yachtmaster Training School

Flying Fish pioneered Yachtmaster Fast-Track  training in the UK in 1993. In 1996 we ran our first Fast Track course in Australia. 

Since then we have evolved into a busy training academy offering innovative programmes that are well known throughout the industry. 

Each year we review and refine our course programmes in response to customer feedback. We believe we have developed a highly effective training pathway and offer the best professional Yachmaster training in Australia. 

Join us for an inspiring training adventure in an absolutley stunning location. 

Professional Instructors and Fabulous Yachts

Flying Fish employs a team of experienced and highly qualified,  instructors many of whom trained with Flying Fish!

All of our instructors hold RYA Cruising Instructor or RYA Yachtmaster Instructor certifications. We also have qualified RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Instructors, Yachtmaster Examiners, Instructor Trainers, and Senior Dinghy, Powerboat, and Windsurfing Instructors on our team.

Our guiding principle is to provide friendly, professional instruction, understanding that we were all beginners once!

We operate a range of excellent training yachts , a number of Rigid Inflatable rescue craft, and a small fleet of Dinghies, Windsurfers, and Paddleboards. 

Worldwide Employment Opportunities

Sunshine, team spirit, a personal challenge, and great job satisfaction. That’s everyday life after Flying Fish.

Whatever your age or experience, the yachting industry has plenty of exciting opportunities for employment.

Working on yachts and superyachts can open the doors to travel, excellent rates of pay, and great job satisfaction.  

From charter work to working as an officer on a superyacht, the right training and support are crucial to launching a successful career.

Flying Fish is an industry leader and has been successfully launching yachting careers for over 25 years. 

The Fish network is extensive and our past graduates have a great reputation with employers.

As a new Fish graduate with a Yachtmaster qualification, you will be in demand.

Live in Paradise

We recommend our interstate and international Fast Track students stay nearby in Manly.

We love Manly and our students have always stayed here and had a fabulous time. 

Manly has amazing beaches on its doorstep, access to the City via ferry and is a short drive from our training centre at Middle Harbour Yacht Club.

We offer comfortably furnished crew apartments a stone’s throw from Manly ocean beach for those of you needing accommodation. 

Alternatively there are plenty of good options for you to book your own. 

Find your next adventure

explore our full list of courses in the course catalogue.

try our course search to find what you're after.

Middle Harbour Yacht Club, Lower Parriwi Road, The Spit, Mosman, NSW 2088.

Official RYA training centre

Flying Fish Sail Academy teach the world recognised RYA methods.

Australian Sailing

We're partnered with Australian Sailing.

Flying Fish Sailing teach the world recognised RYA methods.

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Register today to get £50 off

Enter voucher code HOME STUDY in the booking form

Online Theory Course

An outstanding course - I can highly recommend this. The details, feedback and support is excellent - makes celestial navigation understandable!

Unravel the mysteries of astro navigation, the sextant, global meteorology and ocean passage making

The online RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean theory course teaches advanced techniques to those aspiring to blue water cruising and is ideal for holders of the Yachtmaster Offshore certificate who are preparing for their first ocean passage, and for commercial Skippers or Mates planning on operating more than 150nm from a safe haven.

This course will introduce you to the principles of astro navigation, the practical use of the sextant, the measurement of time, position fixing by the sun and stars, compass checking and great circle sailing.  

You’ll also study the concepts of worldwide meteorology, including tropical revolving storms, and passage planning for ocean voyaging.

• Assumed knowledge Yachtmaster level.
• Minimum duration 40 hours study is specified by the RYA.
• Ability after course Theory knowledge to undertake an ocean passage.

Simply click below to try a free lesson.

Introduction to Astro Navigation

• Introduction & Basic Astro Navigation Theory
• Using a Sextant
• Meridian Passage
• Plotting Your Position
• Planet Sights
• Moon Sights
• Star Sights
• Latitude by Polaris (The Pole Star)
• Compass Check by Sun’s Amplitude
• Ocean Weather & Tropical Storms
• Passage Planning
• Satellite, HF communications and obtaining weather data

Unlimited support from our dedicated RYA Instructors - 365 days a year via email, phone or Skype/Zoom.

14-day unconditional money-back guarantee.

13 fully-narrated online lessons including animations, videos and realistic 3D graphics.

Embedded quizzes with instant feedback in each lesson.

Self-assessment exercises with fully worked answers.

Final exam with detailed instructor feedback and free repeat attempts if requried.

RYA Ocean Yachtmaster Shorebased Theory Course Completion Certificate.

12 months access to study with instructor support and exams - you can extend this if you want.

Lifetime access to training materials once you’ve completed the course.

This course is accessed online with no additional software required.

Lessons are accompanied by optional professional narration, and notes. 

They are intuitive and easy to follow, whilst more complex subjects are accompanied by interactive animations and graphics to help you gain a full knowledge of each subject in the course syllabus.

Whilst the process of translating a sextant sight into a position line is straightforward it is quite challenging to get to grips with. Unlike classroom training, where time is limited and students progress at different rates, online learning allows you to participate in lessons as many times as you wish to fully get to grips with the concepts.

At the end of each lesson there are excercises containg similar questions to the exam, with detailed and illustrated answers sent to you immediately to confirm your progress and fully prepare you for your final exams.

You can repeat entire lessons and excercises as often as you wish until you are confident that you fully understand each subject.

When you have completed the course you can request the final exam.

This is assessed by our RYA Instructors and detailed feedback is provided in any areas that may require further study within the course.

If you pass the final exam you will be awarded the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Shorebased Course Certificate , which will be posted to you.

Ad ditional free resits, with suitable Instructor guidance, are available if required.

If you  are working towards your Yachtmaster Ocean Certificate of Competence, successful completion of this course exempts you from the written exam.

For most students exam invigilation is not required - see here for examples of when invigilation is required.

Call us for advice on 0238 218 2604

Course reviews.

Nigel Andrews

Helped me master it

This was my third attempt at an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean online course from different companies, and by far the best. For an admittedly difficult subject matter to get one’s head around, the instructor presents a very organized and understandable series of lessons that combine learning with wisdom and humour. Its still a tough subject, but this course helped me master it. Thanks!

Mathew Myatt

Ability to repeat when in doubt

Logical and clear. What was really good was the ability to go back and repeat or all or part of a lesson to ensure you truly understand a concept / principle, something which is more difficult to do when in a real classroom situation

David McIntyre

An excellent course

I found this course to be very comprehensive and informative. The format was very well presented and clear. The main advantage for me was the convenience of doing this in your own time. They are very generous with this. All my correspondence was very promptly replied. They are certainly very on the ball. The instructors gave clear and prompt feedback.

David Collins

Well worth the investment. Excellent!

A challenging course which stretches you but backed up with excellent coaching and instructor support. Worth the investment in time and money. Highly recommended.

Combined - RYA Day Skipper & Yachtmaster to fast track your theory learning

+61 7 5478 2299

RYA Competent Crew

RYA Competent Crew - Yacht or Catamaran

The RYA Competent Crew course introduces the complete beginner to cruising. You will learn about personal safety, seamanship and helmsmanship to the level required to be a useful member of the crew of a cruising yacht.

COURSE DETAILS

Course Duration: 5 Days, or 3 x 2-day weekends Start and Finish Times: Start at 9:30am on the first day, and finish by 4:30pm on the last day of the course. Minimum Age: The recommended minimum age for this course is 12-years Course Format: On the water, on either a yacht or catamaran. Prerequisites: None. Although we do recommend completing the RYA Essentials – Navigation and Seamanship (online) course prior to this course.

By the end of the RYA Competent Crew course the successful Competent Crew will have sufficient knowledge and skill to be a useful and able crew member, and will be issued with the RYA Competent Crew certificate of course completion.

Perfect for Beginners

The RYA Competent Crew course is the perfect learn to sail course aimed for complete beginners who want to aim for more than the two day RYA Start Yachting course. It’s best for those who have spent very limited time or no time on sailing vessels, but want to be able to go sailing as a competent member of the crew onboard.

The course is planned to give you as much fun and enjoyment as possible, as you adventure and learn the fundamentals of cruising yachts. While you cruise you will learn about safety at sea and will be given lots of opportunities to master the seamanship skills of steering, changing sails, reefing and tying the essential knots as well as whats is like to live on a yacht for an extended period.

Go Sail with Confidence

After completing the RYA Competent Crew learn to sail course you will have the knowledge, skills, practice and confidence needed to go and be a competent member of the crew.

Find a race crew at your local club, go cruising with friends and be able to assist onboard, or use this as the stepping stone towards the RYA Day Skipper qualification to gain the confidence and ability to skipper your own vessel, or to obtain your international certificate of competence.

Course Syllabus

The Competent Crew course introduces the complete beginner to cruising and teaches personal safety, seamanship and helmsmanship to the level required to be a useful member of crew of a cruising yacht.

• Knowledge of sea terms and parts of a boat, her rigging and sails
• Sail Handling
• Fire precautions and fighting
• Personal safety equipment
• Man overboard
• Emergency equipment
• Manners and customs
• Rules of the road
• Meteorology
• Seasickness
• Helmsmanship and sailing

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 here to view the RYA Competent Crew course syllabus:

Quality Training Vessels

Whether you have a desire to sail a monohull or a catamaran we have you covered. You have the option of deciding to be on either vessel when choosing your training dates.

Cruising Yacht (Beneteau First 44.7)

Cruising Catamaran (Lagoon 380)

Read more about our training vessels here: Our Fleet (opens in new tab)

What Qualification Do I Get?

The RYA Competent Crew certificate will be issued at the end of the course, indicating that you are a competent member of crew on board a sailing vessel.

Sleeping and Eating

Accommodation: Accommodation is on board our yachts as you spend time out sailing the beautiful locations that we frequent.

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.

What to Pack: We will be in touch with an easy to follow checklist to ensure you have everything you need on the day, but to give you a bit of an idea bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bathing suit, a warm jumper, change of clothes (minimal wardrobe needed), spray jacket. Be sure to pack this in a flexible soft bag.

Where Is This Held?

Courses start from the stunning south east Queesnland locations of both the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast. These courses frequently move through Moreton Bay and Brisbane during the duration of the course.

Courses with a start date in August and September start at Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach in the spectacular Whitsundays.

Simply check the location when you are selecting your date in the booking form.

Course Preview

What we offer, pro instructors.

We constantly strive to recruit and develop the most experienced and professional instructors. We expect our instructors to not only guide you through the course syllabus, but to do this in a way that meets your learning style, and to always go above the minimum requirements of the course.

Perfect Locations

Our training locations are chosen to provide you with a broad opportunity of learning experiences on the water. All of our locations have access to open ocean, busy waterways, and a range of different learning opprotunities.

Expert Advice

The team at Sunshine Sailing Australia are here to talk to you. Whether you are a recreational sailor, or someone who would like to enter the commercial superyacht industry, our team is always up for a friendly chat. We can assess your needs and will help guide you down the path that suits your experience and goals.

FAQ's and COVID-19

Faq’s, is accommodation provided or do i need to provide my own accommodation.

Accommodation is provided onboard the vessel for all liveaboard courses. The training vessels have ample comfortable accommodations on board. Couples will be provided with their own cabin and double berth. Individual participants may be provided with their own cabin or be in a shared cabin depending on the ratio of the course.

Is food provided and do you accommodate dietary preferences?

Yes, we provide all food onboard for the duration of the course. After registering, you will be asked for your dietary preferences so we can accommodate those. We can accommodate students who are vegetarian, vegan, gluten/dairy free, etc.

We recommend taking out travel insurance to cover you against any impacts of  COVID-19 on your ability to attend a course. If you are required to isolate or quarantine due to COVID-19 infection and that interferes with your course dates, we will not be able to provide a credit unless we are able to fill your spot at short notice. Therefore, you may like to have insurance in place to cover you against this unlikely, but unfortunate event.

While it is highly unlikely, in the event that we need to reschedule a course due to COVID-19 affecting out ability to run a course for any reason, we will reschedule your course at no cost. The health and safety of our clients and staff is our top priority. We we will not be liable for any additional costs born out of needing to reschedule the course.

More Information

You are the captain of your journey, and we’re here to make that voyage as smooth sailing as possible. Our friendly team is ready at any time for a question you might have about this course, or which training plan will work best with what you want out of your time on the water. Please touch base with any questions you may have.

5-Day Course

From $2,195, 3 x 2-day weekend course, from $795 per weekend.

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Enquire About This Course

El Condor Randall course completed 8th December 2021

Chad Kemp course completed 12th November 2021

Ange course completed 11th February 2021

I throughly enjoyed completing the Competent Crew Course with John. It was a fantastic experience.

Deb and Van course completed 19th May 2019

I would like to especially thank James as he was so willing to impart his knowledge and was always encouraging and understanding of everyones individual abilities. His kind and considerate manner really put me at ease and ensured my first sailing adventure was an enjoyable experience. This course exceeded our expectations.

Richard & Nadeia Romanowski course completed 15th September 2018

‘…a learn-to-sail experience that was also an enjoyable adventure holiday… it provided us with a superb preparation to crew a sailing boat competently… Plus the sailing was accompanied by whales, dolphins, turtles and eagles.’

Lin & Brian course completed 18th May 2018

‘Many thanks from two over 60’s who were sailing virgins but now have their own 34 footer! . “RYA Competent Crew” was fun and SAFE, a great introduction and your ongoing help and advice are invaluable – looking forward to more courses as we really get up and running.’

Scott and Almasa course completed 10th March 2017

‘Challenged just in and around comfort zone, never for a moment felt in danger or intimidated, vegetarians well looked after, reliable yacht, plentiful crew, great instructor.’

5 Stars Based On 7 Reviews

Instructors

SUNSHINE SAILING AUSTRALIA INSTRUCTORS

Sunshine Sailing Australia’s group of RYA Cruising and Yachtmaster instructors come from a variety of sailing backgrounds and experience.

This wide variety of experience is what gives us our widely renowned instructing strength and expertise that has led to a high number of Yachtmaster Offshore graduates.

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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SAIL AWAY...

Discover real freedom with Yachtmaster Sailing School.

Thanks to Dave and Martina for the footage of their 5 day liveaboard experience in March 2020.

And video curtesy of Adrian Monico – Introductory Course 10-11 February 2024

Gain confidence, knowledge and seamanship skills in Melbourne with our highly experienced Yachtmaster instructors

Founded in 1988, Yachtmaster offers sailing and navigation courses to intrepid sailors from beginners to professionals.

The first rule of sailing is to have fun and that’s what we’re focused on at Yachtmaster.

Find out what everyone’s talking about or indulge your sailing obsession with a course from internationally renowned instructor Gordon Syme.

Book a course and experience the thrill of setting sail with Yachtmaster.

Learn navigation skills from the beginning or advance towards RYA theory certification

Our Courses

Yachtmaster Sailing School runs theory and practical courses in Melbourne.

Certificate Qualifications

RYA internationally recognised qualifications, from Competent Crew to Yachtmaster

Corporate Sail Days

Introduce your crew to ours with an amazing day on the waters off Melbourne.

Prepare to Charter and ICC

These courses are a must if you’re planning a charter holiday in Australia or overseas .

Own Boat Tuition

So you’ve bought a boat! Learn how to handle her in the marina and at sea.

Other Qualifications

SSSC , Diesel maintenance , Radio Operators Licence and more.

Gift Voucher

Sailing lessons make fine gifts for all occasions.

Why RYA? Royal Yachting Association in Australia

If you have always wanted to sail or want to improve your skills, book a course today.

Let’s sail away!

Melbourne’s top choice for sailing courses.

Led by Yachtmaster Gordon Syme, our Melbourne sailing school is known for high quality training in an encouraging and fun environment.

We love to sail and we want you to experience it for yourself. Book a sailing course and start your journey with one of Australia’s leading instructors.

What our students say

Yachtmaster has taught thousands of students how to have a blast on the water.

I wanted to quickly say “thank you” for running an excellent course despite the obstacles of the recent snap COVID-19 lockdown. It was no mean feat and I’m sure a logistical nightmare. As a student, you got the course materials to me in record time and the Zoom sessions were effective in presenting the course and running the exercises.

The format was engaging and more importantly the information stuck and I learnt a lot. That’s the measure of success I’ve always used and I commend Yachtmaster Sailing School for a course well run in difficult circumstances. Gordon’s patience and forbearing in carefully explaining and re-explaining to clarify the principles of the course was both noticed and appreciated. Thank you for your care in my education – whilst in person would be preferred, I’d be happy to attend other theory class by remote if the situation required it!

My partner and I completed the yacht master 5 day trip and loved it. I was a complete novice, others on board more experienced. Gordon’s thorough explanations, patience and great sense of humour made the course so informative, catered to all levels and most importantly fun. We would highly recommend and can’t wait to go sailing again.

Kelly Anderson & Craig Smyth

Learning to sail with Yachtmaster has been one of the best decisions I have made. Gordon and his team have an ability to clearly articulate their immense sailing experience into easily understood lessons and skills. I’ve continually felt supported to learn and develop independence on water. If you have ever thought of learning to sail or build on your skills I couldn’t recommend them enough.

Gordon Syme is very clearly, a highly accomplished, knowledgeable and extensively experienced RYA Yachtmaster, examiner and course presenter. He presents information in a very interesting, practical, logical and easy to understand way (interspersed with some humour to keep students “on the ball”). I would recommend (and have done) Yachtmaster to anyone from those who want to start sailing, right though to RYA Yachtmaster. Thank you Gordon Syme!!!!!

David Temby

Amazing 5 day Day Skipper training with Yachtmaster.com.au. Learned a lot while having a good fun with a bunch of fantastic new friends on the boat. We had rain, strong wind, light wind, sun and clouds, night sailing and boat handling, all that in a good team. Thank you, Gordon Syme for all the fun and knowledge!

Miloslav Shulev

To everyone that may want to discover sailing, or learn the right things in the right way (having fun, and safe). I would also recommend it to everybody that I’ve ever sailed with, as I’m sure most of them would learn things during the course, at the very least they’d learn how to teach by seeing you doing it, as the way you explain things are much better than most people’s abilities.

Miguel A Molina

Would we recommend Gordon? Absolutely! To anybody who wants to learn to sail. From beginner to those experienced sailers who wants to climb to the next level. As soon as this COVID-19 business is over and we can return to the water we will be arranging our next skills session with Gordon.

Penny and David Goodman

Memorable moments.

Many of our students send us their happy snaps. Here is a small selection of the good times they have been enjoying while sailing with Yachtmaster. Send us your favourite images to [email protected] and we’ll add them to the gallery.

YACHTMASTER SAILING SCHOOL

For more dates and to see the 2024 calendar, click here to visit our calendar page

Introductory Courses  2-3 Mar, 4-5 Mar (Midweek), 6-7 Apr

Intermediate and Prepare to Charter 2 day weekend courses 16-17 Mar, 13-14 Apr

Passage courses  16-17 March - 1 position left, 6-7 Apr

5 day live aboard courses  Labour Day 7-11 March | fully booked but register your interest in case of cancellation Easter 28 March - 1 April, 15 - 19 April | 1 position left

Shore based theory courses coming up:

Coastal Navigation | 17-18 Feb | 2 positions left Day Skipper Bridging | 24-25 Feb Yachtmaster Theory | 6-9 May

Safety and Sea Survival (SSSC) | 25-26 Nov

For more dates please see the Calendar on the website.

Gordon is available midweek for 1 on 1 lessons. Please call to organise a suitable time.

For more information call 03 9699 9425 or email [email protected]

Course Page

RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Theory

The RYA Ocean Yachtmaster theory course is for those who have a passion for sailing, but most importantly navigation and will keep you occupied for hours on end. Along with mapping a position from stars and planets, it covers traditional methods of ocean navigation, weather, passage planning, watch keeping and much more.

A minimum knowledge up to RYA Coastal/Yachtmaster theory level is required.  Even with many sailing miles, completion would be difficult without any formal theory training and a thorough understanding of latitude and longitude.

Due to the widespread use of GPS nowadays, ocean crossings are far more common.  With the essential skills ascertained throughout this course, you will ensure your safe passage around the world without the reliance on equipment that has the potential to fail.

Content covered:  the mysteries of celestial navigation, global weather, vessel preparation and communication for ‘blue water’ voyaging. This is a prerequisite for the Yachtmaster Ocean exam and participants require a thorough understanding of the RYA Yachtmaster Offshore theory before beginning the Ocean course.

Previous Experience

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore and ocean passages will be required to be awarded this certificate.

Holding the RYA Coastal/Yachtmaster theory certificate is recommended.

Course Duration

40 hours online, plus self study and passage making.

Certificate Upon Completion

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– Tom Smith

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!

The course covers the following subjects :

• The earth and the Celestial Sphere
• The PZX triangle
• Use of the Sextant
• Measurement of Time
• Meridian altitudes
• Taking Sun and star sights
• Checking the Compass
• GPS Systems
• World Meteorology
• Passage and route planning
• Navigation when passage making
• Vessel preparation
• Communications at sea

RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200 Course 300

MPT is the most complete full service private maritime school in the country and has been training mariners since 1983. Our Fort Lauderdale based campuses host over 45,000 square feet of classrooms, deck and engineering training labs, the Ship's Store, and student service facilities.

Preparing for RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master...

Course description.

  Yachtmaster Certificate of Competency

The Yachtmaster Qualification is the pinnacle of the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Training and Certification System. It is widely recognized throughout the world as a prestigious accomplishment.

 Holding this credential can:

- Improve your resume for any deck department position on yachts - Serve as prerequisite training for an MCA OOW 3000 GT CoC - Professional Development in your yachting career  - Serve as your Certificate of Competence (CoC) for operators of yachts up to 200 tons

The Yachtmaster Course should be undertaken by crew aspiring to advance to the MCA OOW level up to 3000 tons and by those who are advancing to the command level for Master of Yachts up to 200 tons.

  2 Routes Available – Same Course:

Yachtmaster Coastal Yachtmaster Offshore

Yachting professional candidates are encouraged to start their training and professional development as early in their career as possible. Many will take their STCW Basic Safety Training Program (#140) and then when they qualify, it is recommended to obtain the Yachtmaster Coastal CoC. Candidates wishing to upgrade to the offshore route later can simply examine, without additional required training.

Whether you qualify for the Yachtmaster Coastal or Offshore, the training is the same. The only difference is your experience and practical skill level. You will be examined towards whichever level you qualify for.

The MPT Yachtmaster Coastal and Offshore Course (#300) is taught on a Motor Yacht and the practical training and examination are towards a Motor Certificate of Competence. (If you are applying for a Sail Endorsement, this course will not satisfy your practical training and exam requirements). All sea time must be on a power boat and not on a sail boat under power. The Theory, SRC, PPR, and Basic Training courses are the same for both schemes.

The MPT Yachtmaster advanced level certification is available in a 2 week + exam program combining shore-based theory and practical hands-on techniques for a Motor Vessel and the RYA Practical Examination. The first week of class is in the classroom (theory) and the second week is Practical, out on the boat. In addition, there will be class on Saturday of the first week so please plan accordingly.

YACHTMASTER COASTAL & OFFSHORE Subjects Include:

One week (40 hours) of comprehensive shore-based theory module with written assessment papers including navigation, tidal calculations, international and inland rules of the road, coastal pilotage, meteorology, anchoring and mooring, docking and undocking, buoyage systems, safety, voyage and passage planning, general ship knowledge and seamanship.  A theory examination will be conducted after the completion of the 40-hour theory portion of the program.

One week of Yachtmaster Offshore/Coastal practical training is conducted on board one of MPT’s Yachts. These yachts are up to 48’ and are twin screw motor yachts. This part of the instruction covers seamanship skills such as nautical terms, tides, marlinespike seamanship, anchor work, boat handling, docking, general yachting skills, basic weather, navigation and passage planning. This course will be a preparation course for your final Yachtmaster Coastal/Offshore Examination. The practical portion of the course will be conducted during daytime, evening and occasionally may include weekend hours.

The Yachtmaster Course #300 is an Advanced Review Course and it is assumed that candidates will have the prerequisite knowledge of the Basics of Navigation and recommended to the level of RYA Day Skipper, and the very least, the level of the Essential Navigation On-line course. To increase your likelihood of success, we recommend taking the online pre-course - ESSENTIAL NAVIGATION. Additionally, flash cards are available in the MPT Ship's Store for rules study in lights and shapes. Also, many Apps are available to assist in these subjects for pre-study. It is also strongly advised that you pick up your study material well in advance of the start of your course. Pre-study is essential for a successful outcome of this course. 

The RYA Yachtmaster course is accredited by the RYA and MCA and recognized for service as Captain or Mate (OOW) up to 200gt up to 150 miles from a safe haven, at the Offshore level or up to 60 miles from safe haven at the Coastal level. 

The Yachtmaster CoC meets the STCW A-V1/1 and section A V1/1-4 when combined with Basic Training Courses. Yachtmaster Offshore fulfills the prerequisite for MCA OOW 500 and 3000 GT and the MCA STCW A-II/2 Command Certificate for Master 200GT.

Sea Service Prerequisites (minimums): Note you must be able to provide proof of your sea service before undertaking the exam. This should be provided at least 2 weeks before the course when possible to allow our team to review it and ensure your eligibility for the course. Speak to your MPT Career Counselor or your instructor for assistance.

 Sea Service can be proven by submitting one or more of the following: 

• Log book (RYA or other acceptable)
• Sea Service Testimonial Letters from captains, owners or operators of vessels outlining vessel specifics, time underway, your capacity served onboard and the location of the service (tidal or non-tidal waters, etc).
• Sea Service Forms (calendar style - provided you can supply all of the additional information such as number of miles, etc.) Method 2 is preferred.

Yachtmaster Coastal: Motor - Option 1

Without RYA Coastal Skipper Practical certificate:

• 2 days as skipper on vessels of less than 24 meters

Note: No more than half of the required miles can be on vessels over 24 meters

Yachmaster Coastal: Motor – Option 2 A & B

  With RYA Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate:

Can be used to enter OOW 3000GT program and modules

A. Mariners with Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate and with more than half of required sea service on vessels less than 24 meters

• 20 days on board
• 2 days as skipper on vessel less than 24 meters

B. Mariners with Coastal Skipper Practical Certificate and with more than half of required sea service on vessels greater than 24 meters

• 30 days on board

Yachtmaster Offshore: Motor  

• 50 days sea time overall on motor vessels
• 5 days in the command position on the vessel (as Master)
• 2500 nautical miles logged with half transiting through tidal waters and half on a vessel of less than 24 meters that is not a tender.
• 5 passages over 60 nautical miles, including 2 overnight and 2 in command (as Master) of vessel.        

Yachtmaster Ocean:

• Obtain Yeachmaster Offshore
• Complete the RYA astro/ocean shorebased theory #306
• Ocean passage of 600 nautical miles or more as captain or mate
• Complete oral exam with RYA examiner successfully

For Commercial Endorsement:

In addition to the SRC and First Aid (must have been taken within 5 years) you will need to obtain an MCA Certificate of Medical Fitness (ENG-1) as well as the Personal Survival Training (4 Modules of STCW 210) and the online Professional Practices & Responsibilities (PPR) Certificate. If you are planning to work commercially, you should simply add the STCW Basic Training Program, which will include the approved Personal Survival and First Aid automatically and will also allow your Yachtmaster CoC to have the STCW endorsement as well. Most boats internationally require this of all crew working commercially. We also recommend the Security Awareness or Designated Security (VPDSD) Course if you are working commercially as well. These are all separate fees from the Yachtmaster Course however MPT offers Package discounts, speak to an MPT RYA Specialist for more information and assistance. There is also a fee candidates will pay to the RYA for the commercial endorsement.

Written & Practical Exam Information:

The written exams are administered at MPT at the end of the shore-based theory segment of your program. They include all of the topics covered in the course. All of the shore-based courses and experience criteria must be fulfilled before the RYA Examiner will conduct the practical assessment. The final exam will be conducted by an independent and unbiased RYA Yachtmaster examiner and takes the form of an extensive oral and practical examination on a motor yacht. Candidates who have taken MPT's Yachtmaster course may use one of the MPT vessels for the exam at no additional fee. The practical exam will take an additional one-two day and is scheduled when the examiner is available and generally immediately after the course, weather permitting.  Once your eligibility has been reviewed (sea time and prerequisites met), the schedule for the practical examination is predicated on several things:

1)The weather as this is a practical underway examination 2)The availability of the RYA Examiner (this is not an MPT employee)

Examinations may need to be scheduled for additional days which may not be consecutive to the dates of the course.

Exam Subjects:

We will review with you the knowledge-based subjects during your shore-based theory week and also fine tune your boat handling skills during your practical course, but you should be familiar with the following areas when you join the class and proficient by the exam date. (Note if you are not already well versed in these subjects when you arrive, you are strongly encouraged to take the Essential Navigation (online course) as there is not sufficient time to cover the basics in the 2-week program. Ask about #333) 

• Knowledge of the International and Inland Rules of the Road.
• Safety. The candidate will be expected to know what safety equipment should be carried on board a yacht.
• Boat Handling, Maneuvering, Docking: Yachtmaster Coastal students will be expected to answer questions & demonstrate ability in simple situations only. Yachtmaster Offshore candidates are expected to demonstrate ability in more complex situations and will also be expected to show a higher level of expertise.
• General seamanship, including maintenance.
• Responsibilities of the skipper
• Navigation, Basic Weather 
• Radio Communication & Signaling
• Command presence, management and direction of crew.
• Essential Navigation (online course)

Practical Exam Fees:

The RYA Examination Fee for the initial examination will be paid by MPT as part of your course tuition. Additional RYA fees are paid by candidate if a subsequent examination is needed.

 If at the end of your course you wish to postpone the practical exam date, you are permitted to return for exam and RYA exam fee paid by MPT, within one calendar year, space permitting.

Additional Recommended or Required Courses:

• Essentials of Navigation (Online Pre-Course) #333
• First Aid & CPR #143 or Take STCW Basic Safety Training #141, 142, 143, 144
• SRC VHF Radio License #303 Required (offered Online) or GMDSS GOC #404
• RYA PPR (Professional Practices & Responsibility) #335 ONLINE COURSE
• MCA Approved Engine Course #440
• USCG Radar Course #148 & ARPA Course #150 or MCA Nav/Radar/ARPA Course #402

If you have three years of yacht service, speak to a career counselor about continuing straight through your OOW or Chief Mate 3000 GT program.

Required Materials

RECOMMEND PRE-STUDY: Essential Navigation online, course #333, COLREGS Study Apps or flashcard, and course notes. AVAILABLE IN MPT SHIPS STORE or bring with you the following: Pencil (mechanical or #2) Paper Chart Eraser (We recommend white- like magic rub or Staedtler), Navigation Tools (parallel rules/Portland plotter/triangles – your choice), Dividers (we recommend two- one as divider and one as compass), Calculator (we recommend the TI-30x), Hand Bearing Compass - optional though recommended (We recommend Weems & Plath #2004). Pick up at MPT when you register or when you check-in: Yachtmaster Shore based Training Manuals & Charts (provided by MPT).

11 day class in Fort Lauderdale

RECOMMENDED PRE-STUDY: Available at MPT Ships Store Complete Course Training DVD Flashcards AVAILABLE IN MPT SHIPS STORE OR BRING WITH YOU: Pencil (mechanical or #2) Paper Chart Eraser (We recommend white - like magic rub or staedtler) Navigation Tools (parallel rules/Portland plotter/triangles - your choice) Dividers (we recommend two - one as divider and one as compass) Calculator (we recommend the TI-30x) Hand Bearing Compass (We recommend Weems & Plath #2004) PICK UP AT SCHOOL WHEN YOU REGISTER OR WHEN YOU CHECK-IN: Yachtmaster Shorebased Training Manuals & Charts (provided by MPT)

Course Photos

Testimonials

Not suggestions. Thanks for letting me be your student! Alejandro, Friday August 2015 RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200

A bit more time would be nice! But Steve was an awesome instructor.Very easy to follow and very thorough. Arthur, Wednesday November 2013 RYA Yachtmaster Offshore / Yachtmaster Coastal / Master of Yachts 200

1915 South Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316, +1-954-525-1014 | +1-888-839-5025 (Toll Free)

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