Course Overview

This course develops both your theory and practical skills to confidently take control on the helm.  You will learn preparation of the boat, helming & trimming on all points-of-sail, using telltales to helm effectively and affect the recovery of man-overboard whilst at the helm.  This further 12-hour course will also provide you with more of the valuable time-on-water that helps to develop your skills in differing wind and environmental conditions.  You will learn key concepts including how sails can control the steering of a boat not just the rudder, as well as luffing, heave-to and getting out of “irons”.  The course also introduces other essential areas including weather, ropework and general seamanship skills like anchoring and reefing sails.

This course is highly recommended for those who have completed the Start Crewing course or who have some prior sailing experience and it readies students for other courses we conduct such as  Start Skippering

Course Prerequisites

Start Crewing or previous sailing experience

Who should do this course?

The Start Helming course is the next step on the Australian Sailing accredited pathway to learning to sail a small inshore keelboat.

It is an ideal course for adults and teenagers (16yrs+) who are looking to develop or improve their sailing skills.

Course Outcome

You will gain your Start Helming completion certificate. 

Course Cost: $450 for Wollongong Yacht Club members

Course Overview
The first step on the Keelboat pathway introduces you to the basics of sailing on a small keelboat, including boat handling, safety and sailing theory. In the combined course, you will also experience and develop the theory and practical skills to confidently take control on the helm.

Course Prerequisites

Water confident.

Who should do this course?

This course is designed for participants who wish to begin sailing in a keelboat. Learn the basics of crewing and helming, whilst staying relatively dry! All the equipment and gear will be provided by your accredited Discover Sailing Centre.

Course Outcome

You will gain your Start Crewing and Start Helming completion certificate.