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: $350

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

 

After the final day of your course, join your instructors and fellow participants for a relaxed social catch up. Enjoy a complimentary drink and shared snacks at our historic and welcoming Olympic Bar.

How to Register and Book Your Course

After clicking "Register", if you don't already have a free Australian Sailing account, click "Sign Up". Select "New Member", enter your details, and then complete your course booking.

Creating an Australian Sailing account is completely free. Please register using the name of the person attending the course.

What to Bring

Keelboat and Powerboat Courses: Waterproof clothing such as a rain jacket, gloves and boots (or old sneakers), warm clothing, and sun protection (cap, sunglasses and sunscreen),

Dinghy Courses: A wetsuit if you have one, if not, we have a limited number available to borrow (subject to availability and sizing), so please arrive a little earlier and don't hesitate to ask our team for assistance. Also bring old sneakers (thongs/flip-flops are not permitted), warm clothing, sun protection (cap, sunglasses and sunscreen).

Special Requests?

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

Cancellations and Rebooking

Please note that courses cancelled by email with at least 5 days notice will not incur a rescheduling fee. Cancellations made with less than 5 days notice will incur a $75 charge. If cancelling due to illness, this charge may be waived upon provision of proof.

Minimum Attendance Requirement

This course requires a minimum of 2 participants to proceed. If this number is not met, we will contact you in advance. You will then have the option to be rebooked for a future session at no extra cost, or to receive a credit or voucher

Weather Notice

Please note that sailing is heavily influenced by weather conditions. There may be instances where training needs to be cancelled or postponed at the last minute. The instructor may also decide to alter the program during the course, not to go on the water, or shorten the course due to weather conditions. However, we will be more than happy to be flexible with any cancellations on our end and find the best solution to reschedule your sailing session.

Important Information

In accordance with Victorian regulations, our sailing academy does not offer refunds. However, we will be more than happy to be flexible with any cancellations on our end and find the best solution to reschedule your sailing session.

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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.