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Knysna Yacht Club Sailing School

Learn to Sail on the Beautiful Knysna Lagoon

Dinghy sailing lessons are more popular than ever—and there’s no better place to start than with the Knysna Yacht Club Sailing School. With a dedicated fleet of training boats, including Optimists, RS Teras, and more. Children and adults alike can experience the joy of sailing in a safe, supportive, and scenic environment.

Group Lessons for Children

Sailing lessons for children are offered in a fun and educational group setting.

Lessons include:

    • Basic theory: understanding wind, safety, and points of sail.
    • Land-based practice and sailing with the support of coaches and safety boats.

Our coaching team includes qualified South African Sailing (SAS) instructors, experienced volunteer sailors, and certified safety boat drivers. Parents are also welcome to join the volunteer team!

Group Lessons Overview
  • We operate 3–4 terms per year, each lasting 6–8 weeks.
  • Children 7 years and older may join (based on water confidence)
  • Coaching is offered at beginner to advanced levels.
  • Lessons take place after school on weekdays and Saturday mornings, depending on the group and last around 2 to 2.5 hours, based on group size and weather.
  • Groups are limited to 12 children.
  • Lesson fees include boat use and life jackets.
  • Non-members are welcome – a Junior Membership fee will be added to the term fee.
  • Full-term payment is required upfront (rates are available from the coach or club secretary)
  • Flexible payment terms and in some cases financial assistance may be possible upon request.

Important: Children must be competent swimmers to join the program.

Private Sailing Lessons
Whether you’re an adult wanting to learn a new skill or a child looking for more one-on-one attention, private lessons are available.

Private Lesson Overview

  • Flexible scheduling based on wind, tides, and availability.
  • Sessions last approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
  • Includes 1-on-1 coaching, use of boat, lifejacket, and changeroom facilities.
  • Theory sessions may be conducted in a group where applicable.
Private Lesson Rates  (for group lessons above please contact us for updated terms and rates)
  • Adults: R500 (KYC members) / R600 (non-members)
  • Juniors (16 and under): R400 (KYC members) / R500 (non-members)
  • Payment is made directly to Knysna Yacht Club (as per invoice)
  • It’s recommended to plan for around 4 sessions to build confidence and skills.

    • Boat Hire application form

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    Join Our Sailing Community!

    Interested in lessons? Complete the short form and we’ll be in touch.

    Contact: secretary@knysnayachtclub.com