The Wollongong Yacht Club has launched a new Learn to Sail training program, which will continue each Saturday for keen sailors in the lead-up to Christmas. The club will also look to hold some sessions on Thursdays and Fridays.

Each session is held out of Belmore Basin.

Club Commodore Stephen Phillips said the course was a great introduction to the sport of sailing.

"In the last month, we've been accredited by Australian Sailing to be a Discover Sailing Centre. The next nearest centre is on Sydney Harbour, so we're the only one south of Sydney," Commodore Phillips said.

"We take people from 16 years of age and up, and teach them the basics of sailing and sailing on a Keelboat out on the ocean. From that, they can go through a series of courses on racing, spinnaker handling, and everything they need to do right to be able to do a Sydney to Hobart or something."

Read more: McInnes, Cook reunite for NSW State of Origin assault

The club has four accredited trainers who were recently brought up to speed by Australian Sailing instructor Tony Dillon. And while the course is a great way for sailors to learn the basics, it is also provides an opportunity to meet new people.

"It's really something for all ages, but it is a great thing for young teenagers because it's a social thing, but they're also getting out in the environment and forcing you to be self sufficient," Commodore Phillips said.

"It's a great way for us to get people into the club, and get the skills up of the people we already have."