Sailing

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

If there are no courses showing we will be scheduling more throughout the year so check back again soon.

Courses labeled (fast track course) are condensed versions of the 4 week courses over one weekend. They consist of a morning and afternoon session with a lunch break in between over both days. These courses cover the same content and time on the water. 

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 (boats that 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!

Cost: $75

2024 dates

Sunday 5 May: Register here

Learn to Sail - Level 1

The Learn to Sail - Level 1 course is a 4 week block course aimed at developing your skills as a sailor over consecutive weeks. No experience is required for this course. Learn to Sail sessions are held at the Hyundai Marine Sports Centre (Royal Akarana Sailing Academy) at 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 4 weeks 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.

Sessions will be held over 4 consecutive weeks in 3 hour blocks. During this time you will be working towards your Yachting New Zealand Level 1 Certificate.

Cost: $265

2024 dates:

Saturday 11 - Sunday 12 May (9am - 4pm) (Fast Track): Register here

Learn to Sail - Level 2

The Learn to Sail – Level 2 course is also a 4 week block course over consecutive weeks. 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.

You must complete Learn to Sail – Level 1 prior to enrolling in the Level 2 sessions (exceptions will be made on a case by case basis if sailors have previous sailing experience). During the course you will be working towards your Yachting New Zealand Level 2 Certificate. 

Cost: $265

2024 dates: 

Saturday 18 - Sunday 19 May (9am - 4pm) (Fast Track): Register

Learn to Sail - Level 3

Learn to Sail - Level 3 is a block course over 4 consecutive weeks. 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 Learn to Sail - Level 2 course prior to enrolling in this course. (Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis if sailors have previous sailing experience).

Cost: $300

Saturday 25 - Sunday 26 May (9am - 4pm) (Fast Track): Register here

Learn to Race

Have all the skills needed to be sailor but not too sure how to race? This course is for you!

Learn to Race is the next step once completing Learn to Sail - Level 3. If you haven't completed our Learn to Sail - Level 3 course but have previous sailing experience you can register your interest as all participants will be assessed before taking part in this course.

Register your interest below and we will be in contact when the next course will be, along with the price and assessment date.

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. 

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.