Sailing School

We are excited to announce that our sailing school offers two sessions each year: one commencing in October and running for 6 weeks, and another beginning in February, on Sunday mornings

Our program is designed for all skill levels, from complete beginners to those looking to refine their sailing techniques.

During the sessions, participants will have access to a variety of dinghies, each suited for different learning experiences. Our experienced coach, who has a wealth of knowledge in sailing, will guide you through all the basics, ensuring that you feel comfortable and confident on the water. Whether you are looking to learn how to sail for the first time or wanting to brush up on your skills, our school provides a supportive and enjoyable environment.

In addition to the dinghies, the club also has 4 trailer boats available for use, and we encourage club members to bring their own boats as well. With a capacity of 2 to 3 participants per boat, you will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of trailer sailing in a hands-on manner. This is a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with the joys of sailing or to embark on your sailing journey and discover the thrill of being on the water.

Our sailing school is not just about learning; it’s also about building a community. You’ll meet fellow sailing enthusiasts and make new friends while sharing experiences on the water. We believe that sailing is not only a skill but also a wonderful way to connect with others and the environment.

To ensure you don’t miss out, we will post the dates and application forms approximately 4 weeks before each session starts. Be sure to keep an eye on our announcements, as spots fill up quickly! We look forward to welcoming you to our sailing school and helping you embark on your sailing adventure.




Otago Yacht Club Sailing School

Thank you for showing an interest in our sailing school. We are happy to teach people who have not sailed before as well as those who need a refresher.We have a highly qualified coach to teach younger people in a range of dinghies depending on age and skill level. In general, we prefer to teach adults to sail in trailer yachts where it is easier to break down the skills and learn one skill at a time.

We love sailing but it’s not a sport for everybody. It is sometimes like you see on the big screen, but it can be cold, wet and a bit intimidating. It is a sport for those who lean towards being adventurous. It can be exhilarating and satisfying. If you are prepared to work towards this, you are likely to love it.

Otago Harbor can be cold and windy. Our sessions often start in calm conditions and finish about the time the sea breeze (strong wind) kicks in. You need to be prepared for four seasons in one day.

If you’re still reading this, you are probably the sort of person we’re looking for.

They start at 8:30 on Sunday mornings and usually finish by 11:30 and some days we also join any racing we have on.

Dates to be confirmed for 2026 and 2027 

We expect to have seven places for dinghy sailors and up to 10 for trailer yacht sailors. 


Applications will open in September