Our Courses
Introduction To Sailing - 4 Hour sailing approx
Thinking about trying out sailing? Our introduction to sailing is a 4 hour sailing adventure out on the waters of Lyttelton harbour on our keel boat. During this trip around the harbour, you’ll get a brief introduced to sailing and if your feeling confident, get some hands on experience sailing.
3-4 Hours of leisurely sailing around the Lyttelton harbour
Afternoon tea in Diamond harbour
Guaranteed a relaxing sail and a nice time had.
You could be lucky and have a great view of Dolphins in their environment.
We do these on a Sunday Generally. Saturday during winter months
These are Ideal gifts for Birthday and or Christmas Gifts.
Level 1 - Introduction to Keel Sailing - 4hours for 3 Days
Next course for the duration over the winter months will be on demand. if we meet the minimum number we will have a course to suit everyone one it.
This course is an introduction to Keelboat Sailing. It doesn't matter if you are an absolute beginner, our experienced skippers will make you feel comfortable learning sailing in the stunning Lyttelton Harbour.
The topics covered include:
Hazards, equipment, parts of the boat and sailing definitions
Hoisting and changing the mainsail and basics of sail trim and telltail use.
Avoiding collisions and recovering a man overboard
Understanding weather forecasts and the clothing suitable for different conditions
Learning a variety of knots and their uses
Performing all roles associated with tacking, gibing and other crew positions of a boat
A knowledge of the ‘Give Way’ rules
Next course start date is early September
Level 2 - Competent Cruising - 3 x 4 hour days
Now you have learned the basics of the yacht operation on level 1 its time to reinforce your knowledge and give you confidence as crew and skipper. The course is about 80% practical and 20% theory
Performing safety checks.
The correct procedure for use of VHF radio in an emergency
An understanding of a marine engine, carrying out pre start motor checks and how to start and man-oeuvre
Berthing and man overboard exercises under power and under sail
Hoisting and setting the jib/main, changing the head-sail, tacking/gibing and sail trimming skills in all crew positions.
Helming a boat under instruction
Planning a voyage and use basic navigation skills
Experiencing a night sail (optional)
A range of anchoring techniques
Good boat keeping.
‘Rules of the Road’ on the water
Tow and row a dinghy safely including coming alongside and transferring passengers
As we have enough students we will set dates as required.
FAQs
What experience do I need?
Our Level 1 course requires no sailing experience at all. It is designed as an introduction to sailing and to get your feet wet for the first time.
What should I bring?
We suggest trainers or sailing shoes, they must be comfortable with good grip.
Sailing gloves and sun protection are provided.We suggest you don’t use your mobile phone to avoid distraction to yourself and other students. There is a toilet on board if needed.
Is there a toilet on board
Yes, if you need it.
do you supply life jackets and Safety EQUIPMENT
Yes, as a commercial charter boat, we must supply life jackets and be equipped with all the standard safety equipment such as flares, fire extinguishers and radios
How old do i need to be?
Sailing can be enjoyed by anyone, but we recommend 13 years and older
Any other questions?
Don’t be shy, give us a call.