Frequently Asked Questions

Our courses are open to anyone wishing to learn or improve their sailing skills — from complete beginners to experienced sailors.

The minimum age is 12 for young participants, with no upper age limit for adults. The only requirements are that you are able to swim and are comfortable sharing and respecting life onboard a sailing yacht in a small group environment.

No prior experience is necessary to start your journey with Panache Sailing.

Our beginner and discovery courses are designed as an entry point. As you gain experience, you can progress to intermediate and advanced courses.

If you already have sailing experience, we recommend reviewing the prerequisites listed on each course page to find the best fit for your level.

On weekend and 5-day courses, participants often have mixed experience levels. Instruction is tailored individually so you can learn at your own pace.

Although we don’t issue formal sailing certificates, our instruction follows internationally recognised training principles.

Our lessons are led by a principal instructor trained to RYA Cruising Instructor standard, ensuring a strong focus on safe progression, seamanship and confidence-building.

Yes — we offer private tuition on your own boat.

These sessions are fully customised and focus on helping you build confidence with your vessel’s specific layout, systems, and handling characteristics. We also offer support with yacht preparation for offshore passages.

If you are considering buying a boat, we are happy to assist you in selecting the right vessel for your sailing goals.

Accommodation is included for all weekend and 5-day courses.

Participants have the option to stay onboard our training yacht, with limited numbers to ensure a comfortable experience. Each participant is allocated their own sleeping space.

All bedding, linen, and towels are provided.

Meals and snacks are included on all weekend and 5-day courses.

We provide fresh, balanced meals designed for life onboard a cruising yacht. Meals are prepared onboard as part of the sailing experience, and participants are welcome to bring additional snacks if desired.

When booking, you can advise us of any dietary requirements or food allergies.

The marina precinct also offers a variety of restaurants and cafés should you wish to dine ashore during your course.

Panache Sailing welcomes participants with disabilities.

We ask that you contact us prior to booking on 0450 144 210 to discuss your specific needs and ensure we can provide a safe and suitable learning environment.

Yes. Our training yacht offers two double berths, making it ideal for couples wishing to learn and sail together.

Please contact us directly at info@panachesailing.com.au or 0450 144 210 to change or cancel your booking. 

If you are unable to attend your scheduled course, you may reschedule once (subject to availability) at the discretion of Panache Sailing. An administration fee of $150 applies.

Cancellation terms:

• More than 30 days before the course: Full refund minus administrative fee
• 30 to 21 days before: 50% refund
• 21 to 14 days before: 30% refund
• Less than 14 days: No refund

If Panache Sailing cancels a course due to weather or operational reasons, you will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule.

Courses run in a wide range of weather conditions. If you choose not to attend due to forecast conditions, standard cancellation terms apply.

Yes. For weekend and 5-day courses booked more than 30 days in advance, a 50% deposit can be arranged. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the course start date. 

For bookings made within 30 days of the course start date, full payment is required.

Please contact us at info@panachesailing.com.au or 0450 144 210 to arrange payment options.

Panache Sailing holds full commercial insurance.

Participants are encouraged to arrange their own travel insurance to cover personal circumstances such as illness, cancellation, or unforeseen events.