Which Sailing Course Do I Need?
From your first sail to skippering a charter yacht overseas — find the right IYT course for you.
Not sure where to start? Every one of our courses is IYT-certified (International Yacht Training) and runs from Westhaven Marina in Auckland. This guide walks you through the pathway step by step, so you can pick the right course for where you are now.
The sailing pathway
1. Try Sailing
3 hours · $295 · Complete beginners
A relaxed 3-hour sail on a 32–40ft yacht. Take the helm, learn how the sails work and find out if sailing is for you — no commitment.
View course2. Intro to Sailing
5 evenings or 2 days · from $995
Your first qualification: the IYT Introductory Sailing Skills certificate. Safety, sail handling, ropework, man-overboard, anchoring and the rules of the road.
View course3. International Crew
3 days · from $1,495
Become a capable crew member on a 32ft or 52ft yacht: passage planning, deck seamanship and boat handling under sail and power.
View course4. Bareboat Skipper & ICC
5 days · from $2,395
Our command-level course. Earn the IYT Bareboat Skipper certificate and the ICC — the credential charter companies across Europe commonly ask for.
View courseMore ways to learn
Ladies Learn to Sail
2 days · $1,250
A women-only weekend course on a 52ft yacht with a female instructor. No experience needed.
View courseSmall Powerboat & RIB Master
2 days · $1,195
MCA-approved IYT powerboat course: safety, boat handling, docking, anchoring and passage planning.
View courseMarine VHF Radio
Online theory + 4 hours · $375
Learn to use a marine VHF radio properly, including Mayday, Pan-Pan and DSC procedures.
View courseThe Berth Master
2–3 hours · from $395
A private session to master berthing and close-quarters handling, on your boat or ours.
View courseMediterranean Skipper
6 hours · from $1,995
Private training in med mooring, anchoring and charter planning before your European trip.
View coursePrivate Tuition
from $195 per hour
Tailored one-on-one coaching on any skill, power or sail, on your boat or ours.
View courseFrequently asked questions
Do I need any experience to start?
No. Try Sailing, Intro to Sailing and Ladies Learn to Sail are designed for complete beginners.
Can I skip a step?
Yes, if you already have the experience. If you have sailed regularly you may be able to start at International Crew — get in touch and we will recommend the right level.
What do I need before Bareboat Skipper?
Around 200 nautical miles logged, 10 days at sea, a VHF certificate (which can be added on), International Crew or equivalent, and you must be 16 or over.
Are IYT certificates recognised overseas?
IYT certificates are internationally recognised, and the ICC that comes with Bareboat Skipper is widely accepted by charter companies in Europe.
Can we do a course privately as a couple, family or group?
Yes — most courses can be run privately for your group. See sailing courses for couples.
Still not sure which course?
Tell us about your experience and goals and we will point you to the right course. Call 0800 145 215, email contact@yachttraining.co.nz or send us a message.