What age group is this course suitable for?

The course is designed for children aged 7 years and older who have some sailing experience.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, life jackets are supplied and must be worn at all times during sailing sessions.

Is previous sailing experience required?

Basic sailing skills are recommended as this is an intermediate-level course focused on the O'pen Skiff.

What happens if weather cancels a session?

Sessions may be rescheduled or extended to ensure course completion; specific policies are communicated by the instructor.

Can parents watch classes?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe from designated areas at the Manly Yacht Club.

Are there any transportation options?

There is a school pickup service available for Manly Village Public School students on certain days.

Level Up Your Child’s Sailing Skills at Manly with the Advanced O'pen Skiff Course | Other

Located in Manly, New South Wales, Australia, the Kids Learn to Sail Course: Advanced Optimists / Beginner O'pen Skiff (Level 2) offers a dynamic eight-week program designed for young sailors aged seven and up who are ready to advance their skills on the water. This course takes place at the Manly Yacht Club on East Esplanade, a prime waterfront locale known for its consistent breezes and safe sailing conditions that shape some of Australia’s best junior sailors. Manly itself is an iconic coastal community with a deep connection to the sea, from its bustling surf beach to sheltered bays perfect for teaching water sports. This course channels that maritime energy, moving children beyond basic sailing techniques into mastering five core essentials plus controlled gybing maneuvers on the O'pen Skiff—a sleek, modern racing dinghy designed specifically for youth progression. Unlike typical beginner classes, this program challenges kids to sail a more demanding craft that builds confidence, balance, and tactical thinking. Seasons run during school terms with classes held after school or on weekends, accommodating busy families while providing consistent practice in a safe, supervised environment. Life jackets are provided and mandatory, ensuring every participant’s safety on the water. The structured format encourages steady skill growth and camaraderie. Additionally, transport options include a school pickup service from Manly Village Public, making it accessible for local families. Parents can capitalize on the Australian Government’s Active Kids Voucher to subsidize fees, making this premium sailing education more affordable. What sets this course apart is its focused approach on the nuances of sailing a skiff, introducing young sailors to performance boat handling and teamwork under varied wind conditions. Learning to gybe with control teaches precision that translates to broader sailing competence, preparing kids for competitive or recreational sailing pathways. Beyond just skill-building, the course instills a lifelong respect for ocean environments amid the stunning Sydney coastline. The Manly Yacht Club community fosters a welcoming atmosphere where children flourish both on and off the water. Whether your child dreams of racing or simply gaining confidence in the waves, this course offers an engaging, hands-on experience fostering independence, resilience, and seamanship. For families seeking quality instruction with local expertise and a vibrant sailing culture, Manly’s O'pen Skiff Level 2 is a standout choice in Australia's sailing scene.

Difficulty

moderate.

Duration

8 weeks, weekly 2-2.5 hour sessions.

Fitness level

Suitable for children with basic swimming ability and good general health; requires moderate endurance to handle physical demands of sailing.

Wildlife

Sea birds like pelicans and cormorants
Occasional dolphin sightings in the bay

History

Manly Yacht Club has been a hub for Australian junior sailing development since the early 1900s.

Conservation

The program emphasizes ocean environmental awareness and practices sustainable boating to protect local marine habitats.

Manly Sailing is a water‑based activity provider located in Manly, New South Wales, offering a broad range of sailing, kayaking, and youth adventure programs. Operating from Manly Cove and sailing into Sydney Harbour, Manly Sailing runs kayak hires, guided kayak tours, taster sailing experiences on 24‑foot yachts, and multi‑day sailing and adventure camps for children and teens. The programme includes single sit‑on‑top kayak hire and guided 1.5‑hour kayak tours that visit beaches such as Store Beach and Collins Flat; taster sailing experiences and 2.5‑hour sailing trips on 24‑foot yachts; one‑day and multi‑day keelboat and yachting camps for ages 12–17; kids' learn‑to‑sail Opti and advanced Optimist/O’pen Skiff courses; windsurfing, snorkelling and team‑based adventure camps; plus Australian Sailing Start Crewing and Start Helming course options and private two‑day crew/helm instruction for small groups. Safety and instruction are core features across offerings. Professional skippers and experienced instructors provide briefings, demonstrations and supervision. Safety equipment is supplied on courses and camps, and activities are structured for family‑friendly kayak hires, beginner taster sails, and youth development programs focused on confidence and skill building. Bookings range from hourly kayak hires to multi‑day camps and formal Australian Sailing courses, with options for private bookings or group experiences. Many youth camps offer early drop‑off and flexible scheduling to suit family needs. Small‑group instruction and private bookings are available for families, school groups and small friend groups seeking tailored experiences safely.

Base locationManly, New South Wales

Tours offered23+

Specialtywater-activities

StewardshipLeave No Trace