With the Royal Yachting Association Sailing Away programme, you will learn boat handling under sail, sail trimming, navigation, motor use and safety procedures. The key to Sailing Away’s style is small classes with close quarter tuition providing real one on one attention. Training courses are held on a 2004 Beneteau 323... the perfect learning keel yacht.

At the conclusion of the programme you will receive an internationally recognised RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Sailing qualification recognised throughout the world.

So whether you're looking to further your sailing abilities or wish to have an experience to remember - come learn to sail in luxury aboard 'French Connection'.

Gulfwind Sailing Academy offers practical ‘hands on’ Royal Yachting Association (RYA) sailing and motor cruising power courses for beginners through to yachtmaster level. You get expert professional tuition from Mike, Sheryl and Chad your experienced RYA Instructors.

Courses are held on their Farr 1020 (34’) yacht Share Delight or on a 36’ motor launch Cruzee. They can also be held on your boat. We specialise in holding one-on-one tuition which can be arranged through a YachtShare vessel.

Develop skills and confidence for you and your crew by taking a Gulfwind Academy sail or motor course and increase your local knowledge of our wonderful Hauraki Gulf and Northland coastline for safe and pleasurable cruising. RYA Sail and Motor Certificates are internationally recognised by charter companies worldwide.

The Auckland Coastguard Maritime School has earned an excellent reputation for the courses run from the Marine Rescue Centre. Students learn in purpose built lecture rooms with experienced tutors who impart their knowledge in an ideal learning environment.

There are courses for those who are very new to boating, and are seeking to learn the basics, right through to the Ocean Yachtmaster, including celestial navigation. There are practical programmes for those with Outboard Motors, and for Diesel Maintenance, and also for those seeking licensing for the use of a marine VHF band radio.

More and more women and teenagers are taking these courses now, and once completed, they are finding their boating far more enjoyable. Many say they are more empowered now that they have increased knowledge and the ability to take charge should they ever want or need to.

New Zealand is a leader in all facets of the marine industry with much to offer beyond its shores. The NZMIA represents New Zealand's leading designers, builders, importers and marine sales and service companies. Through the NZMITO (The New Zealand Marine Industry Training Organisation - a division of the NZMIA), it is also responsible for the training of boatbuilders and related marine trades and professional people.

The 500-plus NZMIA Members operate under a broad-based code of ethics to protect the interests of the boating public of New Zealand. When you deal with a NZMIA member, you can be confident you're dealing with the best.