GUIDANCE WHEN YOU NEED IT
Sail Guides
Local expertise at your helm — as much or as little support as you like
EXPERT LOCAL SKIPPERS · TAILORED TO YOUR EXPERIENCE · SUPPORT WHENEVER YOU NEED IT
NO LICENCE NECESSARY
Whether you've sailed for decades or never left the marina, your charter is designed around your experience. Tell us your background when you enquire — and we'll tailor everything from your yacht recommendation to the support you have on the water.
Confidence at the Helm, From Day One
Your Briefing - Included With Every Charter
On departure morning from 8:30am, your skilled Bareboat Briefer spends 3–4 hours aboard with you — a hands-on demonstration of your yacht, from moorings and anchors to sails and systems. It's not a test; it's a guarantee that you can handle everything safely and comfortably before you set off.
EXTRA SUPPORT
Why Hire a Sail Guide?
A Seasoned Guide By Your Side
Even experienced sailors can find the first day aboard an unfamiliar yacht demanding. A Sail Guide shortens the learning curve dramatically — building your crew's skills and your confidence while you settle in, so the holiday starts the moment you leave the marina. Hire them for part of or the full duration of your charter.
*A private cabin and provisioning must be provided for the Sail Guide
What Your Sail Guide Brings
- ✓ Insider knowledge of the Whitsundays
- ✓ The best snorkelling, anchorages & fishing spots
- ✓ Practical guidance on your yachts systems
- ✓ Teach you anchoring and mooring techniques
- ✓ Build your confidence to charter on your own
- ✓ Teach you how to use navigation charts
- ✓ Hoisting, tacking and jibing sails
- ✓ Skills you'll keep for life
Add a Sail Guide for up to three hours beyond your standard briefing, or arrange one by the day for continuous support. Overnight guides simply need a private cabin and meals provided. And even without a guide aboard, our team is reachable by VHF radio at all times — guidance is only ever a call away.
How the Service Works
CHOOSE THE LEARNING PATH THAT SUITS YOU
Learn to Sail
If you’d prefer to get some hands on experience and practical knowledge for your charter, there are sailing schools and online navigation courses available to you.
Discover Sailing with Mainstay Sailing
Airlie Beach-based RYA training - accessible to Luxury Yachts Whitsundays guests before charter.
Courses Offered
- ✓ RYA Competent Crew - a great introduction to life on board
- RYA Day Skipper - build confidence and control at the helm
- ✓ Customised lessons - tailored training for your and your group
Learn Online with NAVatHOME
Learn at your own pace with this introductory course covering the navigation basics, safety and weather systems to help you prepare for your charter.
It’s a great foundation and can later be upgraded to an RYA Skipper ceritication.
10% off — referral code2023ccysailing
Ready to Prepare for Your Charter?
Everything above is arranged in minutes — then the Whitsundays are yours.