Learn to sail adventures
Our instructors teach you everything you need to know to safely skipper one of our yachts for your own adventure sailing holiday in the beautiful Bay of Islands. These are not group courses, learn with your partner, family, and friends. You have the boat and an instructor to yourselves. As well as gaining new skills, you get a fantastic sailing holiday in the Bay of Islands and may also gain internationally recognised qualifications. Great Escape is Yachting New Zealand (YNZ) and International Yacht Training (IYT) accredited.
- Learn to sail, then sail yourself
- Easily managed boats from 20- to 31′ that are great to learn in.
- Customised instruction to help you reach your sailing goals
- Hands-on learning for couples, families and small groups, with you doing all of the sailing
Amazing Experience
“Would highly recommend the 6 day learn to sail and sail yourself trip with Great Escape. The service was amazing, particularly from our instructor Josh, but also generally from the team who were so willing to help and give us the best time. Learning was tailored where possible e.g. if we felt we wanted more practice anchoring so we felt like we learnt a lot. We chose this course as it was recommended to us by multiple friends.”
– Tripadvisor March 24
Introduction to sailing
An excellent practical course for novices who wish to learn fundamental skills and discover if sailing is the right sport for them. Previous knowledge is neither required nor assumed. Two safe and enjoyable days with an instructor.
First Voyage
Six day learn to sail then sail yourselves adventure. The first three days sailing with an instructor learning all you need to know to safely cast off, then three wonderful days sailing by yourselves. This is a beginner to intermediate course, some boating or sailing experience is useful, but not essential.
Skill Builder
Perfect for those with some boating or sailing experience wanting to hone their skills and build experience. Two days with an instructor and three days cruising and exploring the Bay of Islands by yourselves.
Bareboat Skipper
Gain the the qualifications and experience you need for coastal voyaging and bareboat charter. Suitable for intermediate to advanced sailors wishing to gain local and international qualifications (YNZ and IYT). Three days with an instructor aboard and three or four days building your sea miles.
