Adult Learn to Sail
Adult sailing courses designed to support every stage of your journey on the water.
No Sailing Experience Required! | No Swimming Experience Required! | Qualified Instructors | Safe and Engaging Environment
Beginners Course
This beginner course introduces adults to the fundamentals of dinghy sailing. Across three sessions, sailors build confidence in boat handling, sail control and safety, with expert coaching on the water.
August 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 16+
Dates: Sundays August 2nd, 9th & 16th
Location: Oxenford Watersports Centre, 33 Watersports Lane 4210
September Sunday’s 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 16+
Dates: Sundays August 30th, Sept 6th, 13th & 20th
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent, Hollywell
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September Saturday’s 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 16+
Dates: Saturdays September 19th, 26th & October 3rd
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent, Hollywell
Better Sailing Intermediate
Better Sailing is designed for sailors who have completed a Beginners Learn to Sail course and are ready to take the next step into open-water sailing.
Over three sessions, sailors refine their boat handling, learn to sail with a spinnaker, build confidence in tidal conditions and gain valuable experience through guided club sailing and racing.
This course provides the perfect pathway into regular club sailing, racing and further sailing development at Hollywell Sailing Squadron.
September 2026
Price: $500
Ages: 16+
Dates: Sundays September 20th, 27th & October 4th
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent, Hollywell
Keelboat Crewing & Helming
Step aboard our Melges 24 and Blazer 23 keelboats and experience sailing as part of a crew. This course introduces sailors to the fundamentals of crewing, helming and teamwork on larger yachts.
Develop confidence in sail trim, boat handling, communication and on-water decision making while sailing in the tidal waters of the Broadwater under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Ideal for sailors who have completed a Beginners Learn to Sail course or have previous dinghy sailing experience and are ready to progress into keelboat sailing and club racing.
Expression of Interest
Price: $500
Ages: 16+
Dates: To Be Advised
Location: Hollywell Sailing Squadron, 1 Marina Crescent, Hollywell
Can’t Make These Dates?
Register your expression of interest and we’ll contact you when new course dates, additional intakes or future sailing opportunities become available.
Register Your Expression of InterestWhat our Participants say
Highlights
Professional instructors
No sailing experience required!
No swimming experience required!
What's included
Life vests
Secure lockers
Qualified instructors
Club Boats
What to bring
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Towels and change of clothes
Footwear that can get wet
Plenty of water
A packed morning tea and lunch
Please note
Winter is cold, stay warm and comfortable with a wetsuit.
Highlights
Professional instructors
No sailing experience required!
No swimming experience required!
What's included
Life vests
Secure lockers
Qualified instructors
Club Boats
What to bring
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Towels and change of clothes
Footwear that can get wet
Plenty of water
A packed morning tea and lunch
Please note
Winter is cold, stay warm and comfortable with a wetsuit.
What’s Next?
Want more options to continue your journey? Why not Social Sailing?
FAQ
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for both novice and intermediate sailors. Whether you’re completely new to sailing or looking to refresh and improve existing skills, this course provides a supportive and practical learning environment.
There is no maximum age; however, a basic level of mobility is essential as sailing is an active, hands-on sport.
Please note: You will capsize on the first day (yes — you will get wet!). Be prepared to get wet every session as you learn the ropes and enjoy time on the water.
What should I wear or bring to the sailing class?
Participants should bring towels, sunscreen, appropriate swimwear, and dry clothes. Additionally, pack a morning tea, lunch, and plenty of water!
What happens if the weather is bad?
We sail in most weather conditions, including rain and heavy rain. Sessions will only be postponed if there is a strong wind warning, lightning or hail present. If a session needs to be postponed, all participants will be contacted directly.
What will we be sailing on?
You’ll be sailing the RS Quest dinghy — a stable, beginner-friendly boat that’s perfect for learning and easily transferring skills to a wide range of other sailing boats.
Where is the course held?
Our Adult Learn to Sail courses are run from either Oxenford Watersports Centre or Hollywell Sailing Squadron. Please ensure you check your booking details to confirm where your course will take place.