Is prior sailing experience required?

No experience is necessary; the course is designed for beginners aged 7-17.

What if it rains on a scheduled day?

Sessions may be rescheduled for severe weather; light rain usually does not cancel classes.

Are parents allowed to watch the lessons?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe from designated areas near the water.

What safety measures are in place during the course?

Qualified instructors supervise all activities; life jackets and safety boats are provided at all times.

Can participants use Play On vouchers?

Yes, $200 Play On vouchers are accepted to help cover course fees.

Is transportation provided to the sailing location?

Participants and families are responsible for their own transport to Oxenford Watersports Centre.

Homeschool Sailing with Southport Yacht Club in Queensland | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Southport Yacht Club (SYC) offers an engaging, hands-on sailing course uniquely designed for homeschooled children aged 7 to 17, right in Queensland’s (Australia) vibrant coastal waters near Oxenford. This program delivers a rare opportunity for young learners to develop sailing skills through games and practical, on-water lessons structured across eight sessions, each two hours long. With a focus on safety and skill-building, kids are guided by experienced instructors who balance education with fun, nurturing confidence in the water.

SYC’s homeschool sailing course splits participants by age, introducing younger sailors (7–12) to the classic Optimist dinghy, while older teens (12–17) learn on RS Quest or Hobie Wave sailboats. Key competencies covered include steering with a tiller extension, essential knot tying, and maneuvers like tacking and gybing, culminating in sailing a figure-eight course. These fundamentals form a strong foundation for any budding sailor, fostering independence and water awareness.

Located near the tranquil Oxenford Watersports Centre, the course benefits from sheltered estuarine waters offering calm conditions ideal for beginners. Beyond technical skills, the program encourages active play and interaction both on and off the water, reinforcing teamwork and problem-solving. The free trial session on October 8th with no obligation to continue makes this accessible to families curious about trying sailing.

SYC stands out in Queensland’s coastal adventure landscape by catering specifically to the homeschooling community, providing a flexible and supportive environment not commonly found in youth sailing programs. This combination of tailored instruction, coastal access, and community connection makes Southport Yacht Club a standout destination for young sailors in the region. Whether your child is dipping a toe into sailing or looking to hone new skills, this course delivers a grounded, exciting introduction to life on the water.