Keelboat Helm - Sunday 2nd & 9th August 2026

Details

Sun 02 Aug 2026 09:00 - Sun 09 Aug 2026 15:00
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Australian Sailing - Keelboat: Start Helming

Course information

Registration for this course closes at Fri 31 Jul 2026 15:00.

Keelboat Start Helming is suitable for those who have completed the Start Crewing course and are interested in expanding their knowledge to include helming a keelboat.

Course Cost: $364

*Please note that a payment gateway fee of 2% + $1.60 applies to all online transactions

This Course Will Cover

Preparation

Understands the importance of the correct fitting and wearing of lifejackets and complies with the rules for wearing lifejackets
Understands the importance of appropriate clothing and footwear

Boats and Equipment

Can prepare the sails and rig the boat
Knows correct use of halyards, sheets and associated deck hardware

Ropework

Ability to tie the following knots and know their correct use: figure of eight, bowline, round turn & two half hitches, clove hitch, reef knot

Skills and Techniques

Can helm and trim sails effectively on all points of sail
Can helm effectively around a triangular course
Can tack and gybe effectively as helm
Can heave-to
Understands the effect and importance of heel and trim
Understands how to anchor a boat
Can reef and shake out sails whilst underway

Safety and Emergencies

Can recover a man overboard under sail as helm

Knows the location and correct operation of all safety equipment on board
Knows how to raise the alarm in the event of an emergency

Sailing Theory

Has a working knowledge of the general, steering and sailing rules and their
application
Knows how to source information on local regulations

Weather and the Environment

Understands where to obtain a weather forecast

Don't have an Australian Sailing Number?
Under your registration, you will see an option to "Begin your Registration" - please select this and follow the prompts

Important Information: Our sailing academy does not offer refunds. However, we will be more than happy to be flexible with any cancellations and find the best solution to reschedule your sailing session.

Cancellations and Rebooking: Please note that courses canceled up to 72 hours in advance by email will not incur a fee to reschedule. However, cancellations made with less than 72 hours notice will be subject to a $75 charge (if you are sick, we will just need proof to waive this charge).

Minimum Attendance Requirement: This course requires a minimum of 2 participants to proceed. If this number is not met, you may choose to either receive a full refund, or be rebooked for a future session at no extra cost.

What Should I Bring? We recommend suitable sports clothing, please consider the weather you may need a jacket or hat. Sailing equipment such as life jackets will be provided. It is also a good idea to bring a water bottle and snack. Food may be available for purchase in our Olympic Bar, its opening hours can be found on the RMYS Website

Questions? For any inquiries, information, or special requests (such as enrolling in a course that is currently in progress), please contact us by email training@rmys.com.au. Since we are often out of the office, emailing our training department ensures a quicker response.


Course Overview
This course develops both your theory and practical skills to confidently take control on the helm.

Course Prerequisites

Water confident and the skills, knowledge and experience you gained from Start Crewing.

Who should do this course?

This course is designed for participants who want to learn how to helm a keelboat, and continue their skill development as crew.

Course Outcome

You will gain your Start Helming completion certificate.