Adult Learn to Sail
Looking for a new hobby or outdoor water activity on the Gold Coast? Discover the freedom of sailing with Southport Yacht Club Academy.
Our adult sailing courses cater to complete beginners and those looking to develop their skills, offering an exciting way to get outdoors, stay active and enjoy time on the water.
No Experience Required | Ages 16+ | Qualified Instructors | Gold Coast Locations
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.
November 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 16+
Dates: November 1st, 8th, 15th
Location: Oxenford Watersports Centre, 33 Watersports Lane Oxenford 4210
December Saturday’s 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 16+
Dates: November 28th, December 5th, 12th
Location: Oxenford Watersports Centre, 33 Watersports Lane
December Sunday’s 2026
Price: $440
Ages: 16+
Dates: November 29th, December 6th, 13th
Location: Oxenford Watersports Centre, 33 Watersports Lane
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: TBA
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.
Courses
Price: $500
Ages: 16+
Dates: Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th October
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?
Our adult sailing courses are suitable for complete beginners, those looking for a new outdoor hobby and sailors wanting to refresh or develop their skills.
Whether you’re joining individually, with a partner or alongside friends, sailing is a great way to get outdoors, learn something new and enjoy the water.
There is no maximum age, although a reasonable level of mobility is required as sailing is an active, hands-on sport.
Please note: Capsize recovery is part of your beginner training, so be prepared to get wet!
Is sailing a good hobby for adults?
Absolutely! Sailing is a rewarding outdoor hobby for adults looking to try something new, stay active and enjoy time on the water.
Whether you’re interested in recreational sailing, meeting like-minded people or developing a new skill, Southport Yacht Club Academy offers beginner sailing courses and pathways to help you continue your sailing journey.
Do I need to own a boat to learn to sail?
Not at all! Southport Yacht Club Academy provides the training boats and necessary sailing equipment during your course.
You don’t need to own a boat, have previous sailing experience or be a yacht club member to get started.
Can couples or friends learn to sail together?
Yes! Learning to sail is a fantastic activity for couples, friends or family members aged 16 and over.
You can enrol in the same course and enjoy learning new skills together. Our beginner sailing courses provide a supportive environment where everyone can learn at their own pace.
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.