Sailing
Learn more about our sailing courses, run out of the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre at Okahu Bay.

Costs
Course | UoA student or staff | Community member |
---|---|---|
Try sailing | $75 | $120 |
Learn to sail L1 | $265 | $465 |
Learn to sail L2 | $265 | $465 |
Learn to sail L3 | $300 | $465 |
Destination Sail | $100 | $160 |
Try sailing
This is a great chance to learn new skills with no experience required! Our Try Sailing sessions are perfect for those who are new to sailing or those who have sailed in the past and would like to get back on the water to rediscover the fun of sailing.
You will meet at the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre (Royal Akarana Sailing Academy) where you will head out on the water in the beautiful Okahu Bay for a one-off 3-hour session. Our qualified coaches are fully trained and will teach you the basics of sailing on the brand new fleet of RS Quests. These boats are specifically set up as learn to sail and race boats that are most suited to adults.
It's a great opportunity to learn a new skill, meet new people and have fun!
Course Dates
Wednesday 8 October, 4pm – 7pm | Register Here |
Friday 10 October, 4pm – 7pm | Register Here |
Wednesday 15 October, 4pm – 7pm | Register Here |
Friday 17 October, 4pm – 7pm | Register Here |
Wednesday 19 November, 4pm – 7pm | Register Here |
Friday 21 November, 4pm – 7pm | Register Here |
Learn to sail : Level 1
This is a two-day block course aimed at developing your skills as a sailor. No experience is required for this course. Sessions are held at the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre (Royal Akarana Sailing Academy) in Okahu Bay, Auckland.
While sailing a purpose-built training boat the RS Quest, you will gain experience in all aspects of sailing in groups of up to 4. Over the two days you will learn the fundamentals of sailing with a main and jib, and if the weather permits the gennaker. You will also learn to prepare the boat, manage wind and tide, learn angles of sails, different roles on the boat and harbour navigation. There is some theory content however the majority of learning occurs while out on the water.
During this time you will be working towards your Yachting New Zealand Level 1 Certificate.
Course Dates
Saturday 4 – Sunday 5 October, 9am - 4pm | Register Here |
Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 October, 9am – 4pm | Register Here |
Saturday 22 – Sunday 23 November, 9am – 4pm | Register Here |
Learn to sail: Level 2
This is a two-day course over consecutive days. Level 2 is aimed at developing your sailing skills from a beginner level to an intermediate level. You will work towards mastering different sailing angles and techniques with a focus on making the boat sail quickly. During your training you will also gain valuable experience working with a gennaker for downwind sailing.
During the course you will be working towards your Yachting New Zealand Level 2 Certificate.
You must have completed Level 1 before enrolling in this course. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis if you have previous sailing experience.
Course Dates
Saturday 25 – Sunday 26 October, 9am – 4pm | Register Here |
Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 November, 9am – 4pm | Register Here |
Learn to sail : Level 3
We are not currently offering Level 3 courses due to decreased demand. Please contact us using the email address below if you are interested.
This is a two-day block course over consecutive days. Level 3 is an advanced level of sailing, as you will learn the ins and outs of how to race. You will learn sail controls, start line techniques, strategy and tactics, racing rules and much more. You will also be able to compete in RAYC races if you wish.
You must have completed the Level 2 course prior to enrolling in this course. Exceptions may be made on a case by case basis if you have previous sailing experience.
Destination Sail
Join us for a fun day out on the water with our Destination Sail! The exact location will be revealed on the day, but expect to explore some of the best spots around the Auckland Harbour area. This is a great chance to put your sailing skills into practice, enjoy the open water, and have a memorable experience with others.
You must have completed at least a try sailing course to be able to book this expereince.
Please contact us using the email address below if you are interested in booking.
Group sessions
Planning your next team day? Or have a bunch of mates that want to learn a new skill? Get in contact to book a group sailing session using the email address below. Prices vary depending on the number of boats.
Other information
- Attendance of all days is a requirement to receive the certification and there will be no make up days except for the reasons stated in our Terms and Conditions during registration.
- People who are not University of Auckland students or staff cannot join our courses but are welcome to join our delivery partner's adult Learn to Sail courses found here.
Contact
For any questions or queries regarding our sailing programmes, or if you are unable to attend these course dates please contact the team at marinesports@auckland.ac.nz.