Private Boat Training on Your Vessel
Tailored sessions. Real conditions. Confidence that last.
Real Training. Real Confidence. On Your Boat — With Sydney’s Most Trusted Instructors.
Dock smoother. Anchor stronger. Command every swell with calm precision.
Take the Helm with Total Confidence
Book Your Private Session Today
Sydney’s Most Trusted Private Boat Training Service
Tailored Coaching On Your Boat
Master Every System Onboard
Dock Like a Pro — Even in Tough Conditions
Real Skills, Not Just Theory
Confidence in Every Condition
Efficient & Focused for Busy Boat Owners
Tailored Training Programs for Confident Command confidence kickstart
The perfect start to your boating journey. Gain confidence handling your boat from day one with expert guidance, practical drills, and stress-free training.
The Confidence Kickstart is designed to replace hesitation with clarity, fast. Whether you’ve just bought your boat or you’ve been getting by with guesswork, this is the hands-on, no-stress session that helps you finally feel in control.
We don’t just teach theory, we train you on your boat, in your conditions, to build real-world skills and habits that stick.
You’ll Walk Away With:
- A clear, repeatable pre-start checklist for your vessel
- Confident use of your throttle, gear, and control systems
- Proper handling of ropes, lines, and fenders — no more guesswork
- Slow-speed maneuvering techniques for tight marina situations
- Safe, confident departures and returns to your berth or mooring
- Practical awareness of wind, current, and boat behaviour
- The foundations of calm, controlled boat handling
- Smart habits that set you up for long-term confidence
You’ll start thinking like a skipper, not just someone “driving the boat.”
Where to From Here?
The Confidence Kickstarter is just that — a powerful beginning. But mastery isn’t a moment. It’s a progression.
Most BoatWise clients continue their journey through our 5- or 10-session tailored training programs, where confidence becomes instinct and control becomes second nature.
These aren’t lessons — they’re transformations. Built through repetition, real-world challenge, and expert guidance on your own vessel.
With our expert guidance, you’ll:
- Develop true muscle memory for docking, anchoring, and tight manoeuvres.
- Handle wind, current, and swell without flinching
- Learn to troubleshoot your systems like a seasoned skipper
- Gain the leadership skills to manage guests and crew with ease
- Feel in control of your vessel — in any condition, with anyone onboard
We’re not just here to show you how.
We’re here to shape you into the skipper others trust.
→ Your boat’s already capable. It’s time for you to match it.
The Confident Skipper Program is designed for boaters who want to stop second-guessing themselves and start skippering with calm authority. Across five fully tailored sessions, you’ll train in real-world conditions — wind, tide, swell, traffic — and build the reflexes and decision-making that experienced skippers rely on.
Whether you’re cruising with the family or heading out solo, this is the difference between “getting by” and taking charge.
What You’ll Master:
- Confident docking in tight spaces, wind, and current
- Slow-speed precision using pivot turns and spring lines
- Anchoring that holds — and how to reset calmly when it doesn’t
- How to handle guests onboard and communicate clearly
- Departure and return routines that reduce stress
- Reading the weather, tide, and boat behaviour with confidence
- Safe solo techniques and emergency readiness
- Real decision-making and control in high-pressure scenarios
This is about becoming the kind of skipper others rely on — calm, capable, and in full control, no matter the conditions.
What’s Included in the Confident Skipper Program
Every Boat Wise program comes with more than just coaching — it’s a full support system, built for real transformation on your vessel.
Personalised Onboard Systems & Pre-Start Checklist (PDF)
Custom-built for your vessel’s layout, controls, and systems. This clear, repeatable routine removes the guesswork and sets the tone for confident, calm departures — every time.
Boat Wise Pro Navigation Reference Sticker (Helm Edition)
A heavy-duty, dash-mounted quick guide featuring:
- Port & starboard nav light configurations
- Cardinal marks & collision rules
- Practical markers and reminders experienced skippers rely on — and new owners wish they had.
The Boat Wise Handbook
A printed or digital reference guide covering everything from ropework to emergency protocols. Designed to reinforce what you’ve learned — and give you clarity when you need it most.
4 Weeks of Direct WhatsApp Support
Training doesn’t stop when the session ends. Stay connected with your instructor for quick answers, clarification, or even a second opinion before a trip.
Essential Safety Equipment Checklist (PDF)
A clean, easy-to-follow guide to what you need on board — and why. Know what to carry, where to stow it, and when to replace it. Ideal for ensuring compliance and upgrading smart.
1 x Co-Skippering Support Session
Use one of your session credits for a live, on-water experience where you take the lead — with your trainer onboard, guiding from the shadows and ready to step in if needed.
Session Recaps & Ongoing Progress Plan
After each session, receive a personalised recap — what worked, what’s next, and how to keep improving between lessons. This is how real mastery is built.
The Harbour Master Program is our most comprehensive, high-touch coaching experience — built for owners who want more than skill.
They want control. Calm. Command.
Whether you’re preparing for coastal passages, managing a premium vessel, or simply ready to master every system onboard — this is your fast track to elite-level confidence on the water.
With 10 private sessions on your own vessel, plus access to our extended suite of support tools and resources, you’ll gain clarity, capability, and a quiet confidence that lasts well beyond the dock.
This isn’t about getting comfortable — it’s about becoming unshakable. Whether you’re cruising with the family or heading out solo, this is the difference between “getting by” and taking charge.
What’s Included?
Everything inside the Confident Skipper Program, plus premium tools and elevated support:
- Boat Wise Premium Waterproof Dry Bag
A durable, stylish companion built for life on (and near) the water. - Safety Equipment Compliance Checklist
Ensure your vessel meets not just regulation — but real-world readiness. - Priority Booking Access
First pick of training dates, reschedules, and ideal weather windows. - Advanced Session Recaps + Skill Drills
Every session includes a detailed review, plus tailored practice drills to keep you sharp between lessons.
Harbour Master Exclusive Benefits
Skippering Support Sessions
Use any session as a live support day — we’ll join you on real outings, helping run the show or simply backing you from the wings as you take charge.
Lifetime WhatsApp + Voice Note Access
Have a question at 6am before a solo trip? Need advice mid-voyage? Your trainer is a voice note away — for life.
Captain’s Vessel Manual (PDF)
A fully customised operating guide for your vessel. From startup sequences — it’s your personal boating playbook.
Tristian’s Trusted Contractor Network
Direct access to our handpicked marine specialists — including electricians, mechanics, detailers, and upgrade pros. Quality service. No guesswork. No wasted time.
Why It Matters
Because boats don’t build confidence.
Training does.
Leadership does.
Backing does.
The Harbour Master Program gives you all three — and the mentorship to match. This is where you stop learning what to do and start becoming the kind of skipper who already knows
Every package includes:
I had a fantastic experience with the Boat Wise team, during my private boat tuition. Captain Dave was patient, knowledgeable, and made me feel completely comfortable and confident on the water. The session was not only informative but also really enjoyable. I’d highly recommend the Boat Wise Team to anyone looking to learn boating in a safe and fun way!
Boatwise has been of the most professional and personal experience when it comes to charter, training and guidance. Would recommend Tristan anytime and will keep using his services for our Chap 290 luxury yacht.
After retiring to sunny Sydney 18 months ago, my wife Kylie and I dove headfirst into the ultimate cliché: snagging a gorgeous Princess F55 motor yacht with absolutely zero boating know-how! Thank goodness for Tristian at BoatWise – he’s been our absolute lifesaver (and boat-saver)! From guiding us through the boat licence course to hands-on, personalized training right on our own vessel across Sydney Harbour, Tristian’s warm, engaging vibe makes every session a joy while laser-focusing on building real skills and confidence. We’ve leveled up after every fun-filled lesson, feeling way more ready for those epic cruises. If you’re starting from scratch like us, BoatWise is pure gold – can’t recommend Tristian enough! 🚤✨
Training from Tristian has dramatically enhanced my confidence on the water and in particular with docking and anchoring. Highly recommend spending a few hours with him if you are new to boating or in need of a refresher.
Tristan was a great instructor, he taught me very well and I am now able to confidently drive my boat with thanks to his help and advice. He was very friendly and encouraging as well. I highly recommend his service.
Amazing training facility ran by an awesome team will definitely be using again :)
Tristian, you are an amazing person both as a friend and boat mentor. All the very best to you mate!
Super helpful and friendly, no judgement guidance on getting to know your boat. Good for old and new skippers alike
Tristan and the Boatwise team have made owning and running a boat a breeze. Fantastic training and ran the whole process of getting my boat back on the water - including a new engine.
Tristian is a fantastic instructor. He helped me, my husband and stepkids get their boat licenses last year. I had just immigrated to Australia, and he was really helpful in so many ways. We have also joined the Boatlife boat club so we could get more time on the water for practice. Even though I had quite a bit of sailing experience abroad, my powerboat skills have really improved as a result of his help. Definitely don't hesitate to go with Boatwise, it is a really good company.
I recently bought a boat as my new hobby but I quickly realised that it is not so easy to drive. Luckily, I connected with Boat Wise the manager Tristan and in no time he taught me how to handle the boat with ease and obtain my licence. It was a great experience in learning as Tristan was patience, clear and precise in his instructions, supportive, fun and very professional. I would high recommend Tristan at Boat Wise should you want to seek any boating activities.
If you cherish your family and your boat... don't skip this review. I have had my boat license for over 20 years. I am very confident in my driving and managing the boat. I contacted Tristan to get some night navigation experience and thought to my self. Why not just meet him prior and do some swell and weather training as well. I was beyond surprised at the professionalism of Tristan and his knowledge. Tristan showed me easier ways to tie the boat to the cleat, come along side a wharf, different way to understand cardinal marker, he suggested a better way to attach my fenders.... and then the swell training and weather training. The knowledge I gained even as a skipper of 20years on my own half cabin was incredible. Needless to say I am still looking forward to booking in with Tristan to do night navigation. Tristan, Thank you for a great day, training and I will look forward to booking with you in a few weeks for night navigation. Chris Noonan
In modern times there are generally lots of credible suppliers for any service .. but BoatWise takes their training and licensing to a whole new level - you’ll find others who claim to offer similar services .. but there is only one place I’d recommend .. BoatWise !
Tristian is an amazing coach and mentor. He has a truely amazing way of making you feel relaxed and calm when sitting in the captains chair. He also provides indepth knowledge to ensure you grow i to being a capable handler of your ship. I highly recommend him.
I can not speak highly enough of Tristian his approach to teaching is laid back while at the same time being very professional. From the moment I met up with him at Mooney Mooney he was hands on deck to assist me with readying the boat all the while getting to know a bit about what I wanted to get out of the 3 hour's I had booked with him. His ability to impart knowledge in simple terms & demonstration was refreshing. We ended up going a bit overtime actually an hour & a half overtime this was at my request to which he willingly obliged even though he had to ring people & rearrange his schedule.I have come away from the time on the water with a new understanding of the water of my boat & how to work with them both to make boating a much more pleasurable & most importantly a safer experience for all who are on my boat in the future. As I said at the start of this review I cannot speak highly enough of Tristians ability & expertise I have no hesitation in recommending him to anyone contemplating furthering their abilities when it comes to boat handling. Geoff Watson
We were fortunately referred to Boatwise by the Pardo dealer when we bought our new boat and having not had a boat for 10 years we thought we just needed a refresher course. Almost one year later I think we have probably used just about every service possible......to say that Tristian goes the extra (nautical) mile would be an understatement!! He has increased our skill levels in all respects, has referred first class service providers to us who are now part of our "team", made great and practical suggestions to maximise enjoyment of the boat(both technically and socially!) and provided successful boat license tuition to our daughter and son in law(and skippered the boat for their wedding!) He has also combined tuition on the trip out with skippering on the way back when circumstances required!! Tristian is very efficient and always more than punctual. Safety is his prime focus in tuition and Tristian upholds the highest standards in all aspects of the maintenance of the boat. The tuition is friendly and concepts explained well. We are looking forward to continuing to widen our skills with the assistance of Boatwise. We would wholeheartedly recommend Tristian and Boatwise without any hesitation.
The best investment I made after purchasing my beloved 34 foot Mainship was having Tristian from Boat Wise spend a week aboard. I started the week feeling anxious about handling my first shaft-drive boat and finished it feeling completely confident at the helm. We tackled fuelling, manoeuvring through the shallow Broadwater, setting a course, anchoring and reversing into my tight marina berth, as well as handling lines and fenders. Tristian guided me through it all with patience, skill and calm humour. Boat Wise promises to help you “gain total confidence on the water” and that’s exactly what happened. I couldn’t recommend him more highly!
Tristan has been a great source of knowledge and an inspirational teacher and guide on our boating journey.
Tristian and the team are awesome! They’re very good at explaining not just what to do, but why to do it, which helped me a lot. I did my boat licence through BoatWise a while back, and it was a great day - lots of practical too, which for me is a much more productive way to learn. More recently, I’ve been working with Tristian to touch up on manoeuvring in tight spaces around the marina, which has been extremely helpful. I would highly recommend BoatWise to both new and experienced boaters.
I had an absolutely amazing experience with BoatWise for my boat licence training! The course was clear, professional, and super helpful for someone like me who’s new to boating. What I loved most is that it wasn’t just theory – it included practical training as well. We actually got to spend around 15–20 minutes driving a boat, which gave me the confidence I needed to feel comfortable behind the wheel. The facilitators, John and Alex, were fantastic. They were patient, knowledgeable, and really supportive throughout the whole process. They explained everything in a way that was easy to understand and made the training fun and engaging. I highly recommend BoatWise to anyone looking to get their boat licence. The mix of hands-on practice and expert guidance from John and Alex made all the difference. Couldn’t be happier with the experience!
Tristian from Boat Wise is an incredible trainer—professional yet fun and interactive, not to mention a fountain of knowledge. He makes the whole boat-learning experience enjoyable and easy to understand. We are new to boating but he made us felt completely at ease asking questions, and his thorough & hands-on teaching style really helped things click. Thanks to Captain T, our confidence on the water and excitement to boating grow with each session. Couldn’t have asked for a better trainer and we look forward to future sessions 🛥☀️ Thank you Captain T!!
Captain Tristian is the best mentor in boating! He is so well versed on how to navigate the boat, understanding how the boat will move around in the water . Every training day felt like being supported to be able to maneuver the boat and feel the boat. Me and my sis are always excited on our training days, hearts skips a beat to expect the unexpected! I can’t believe the progress we have made with such a short timeframe and looking forward for more! Reverse camera On Captain! As what Captain T always says “ slow is pro ! “
I recently obtained my boat license through BoatWise, and I couldn't be happier with the training. Tristian, our instructor, was truly exemplary – remarkably patient, knowledgeable, and a highly skilled instructor. He made learning complex concepts enjoyable and clear. I now feel prepared and confident to navigate the harbour, and I'm eager to get involved in further developing my boating abilities. BoatWise comes with my highest recommendation!
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Tristian from Boatwise for an absolutely fantastic experience! Tristian is an exceptional trainer. His vast experience and knowledge made the training process not only incredibly informative but also genuinely enjoyable! I learned so much about safely navigating on Sydney Harbour and now feel completely confident and excited to take my family out on the water. I highly recommend Boatwise to anyone looking at gaining real confidence on the water!
One of the best decisions in our boating journey was using BoatWise for our skipper training. Tristian is an absolute boating maestro and made it easy for my family and I to learn how to skipper. From initial on board safety checks to understanding various conditions whilst on the water, his extensive knowledge will have new boaties on the water in no time.
Great day and Alan was extremely helpful and explanatory about everything needed on the course.
Absolutely thrilled with boat wise. The team are very professional and knowledgeable with the boat licence course. Alan was awesome. He made everything easy to understand. When it came to the practical part of the course, he guided us every step of the way. Highly recommended the boat wise team for anyone interested in obtaining a boat licence
A massive thanks to Boat Wise. Just completed the vessel handling course with Tristian, he was super enthusiastic about teaching each member onboard for ways for us to gain the clearest confidence to pursue the course. Can’t recommend Boat wise more!!! Book any marine course with them, highly recommend. Cheers
Just had an amazing boat handling course with Boat Wise, and I can't recommend them enough! Tristian was our instructor, and he was absolutely fantastic. He's a master at explaining everything clearly, especially all the tricky terminology. Seriously, he made learning so easy and enjoyable.
I recently completed my boating licence course with Boat Wise, and I couldn't be more impressed. From start to finish, the experience was outstanding. The instructor Alan was knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about boating, making the learning process both effective and enjoyable. The course was well-structured, covering everything from safety procedures to hands-on practice, and I left feeling confident and fully prepared to get out on the water. The equipment and facilities were top-notch, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure everyone felt comfortable and supported. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to brush up on your skills, I highly recommend this course. It was an incredibly valuable experience and a fantastic investment in boating confidence and safety. Tristian was so informative and always on top of everything before my course making sure I am ready for the day and even when I went to Service NSW to issue my licence he informed me on what to do before hand.
absolutely recommend Boat Wise. very professional, thorough and experienced. we were a party of 3 and learnt a lot. many thanks to the Captain.
We could not have wished for a better experience for our son to obtain his boat licence. Thank you Tristian for your professionalism in making the process so smooth and Captain Dave for the invaluable knowledge you passed on to our son, he was thrilled! We would recommend Boatwise to anyone - 5 🌟
I couldn't recommend Tristan more highly. He is very professional and personable which made the whole experience positive and informative. Tristan was very patient which really helped build confidence. I'll be definitely booking in again for more classes. Thanks again Tristan!!
I highly recommend Tristian and BoatWise for anyone looking to obtain their boat license or enhance their boating skills. My experience with Tristian was exceptional from the very start. After studying the boating handbook—an excellent guidebook provided by BoatWise—and completing practice tests on the NSW Transport website, I felt well-prepared for my lessons. During a full 6-hour day on the water in Pittwater, Tristian expertly guided me through the essentials of safe boat preparation, startup procedures, and all the necessary basics. His testing included the rules of the water and navigating various markers and hazards. Thanks to his thorough instruction, I successfully passed my practical assessment and received my certificate, followed by my NSW Boat License the next day! A week later, I enjoyed another full day on the water with Tristian, where I learned to handle the boat in more challenging situations. We practiced various techniques with the engines and reviewed the basics, such as anchoring, mooring, and docking smoothly. By the end of the second day, I felt confident in my understanding of boating theory, navigation rules, and safe operation under different conditions. If you’re considering getting your boat license, seeking a refresher, or wanting more complex training, look no further than Tristian at BoatWise!
Went today with my wife for out boat licence, I was really nervous at the start within a min Tristan the instructor made me fell 100x better and the rest of the day was soo much fun as well as learning everything I need to successfully go about the harbour . Definitely recommend this course 👌. Thanks for a awsome day out Tristan.
Boat wise offers an excellent experience which encompasses both hands on learning as well as theory learning. Most definitely recommend for everyone.
I highly recommend Boat wise, I shopped around on who I can get to teach my son his boating license, and I’m so glad i went with boat wise my son understood and now can drive a boat they took the time and went through the whole process and made it’s so easy, very happy and satisfied with my decision.
Tristan is a great teacher and skipper. Was very patient out on the water and helped refine our skills. Taught us a bunch of new tricks as well as what to consider in order to improve our seamanship. Would highly recommend!
So easy to work with and very helpful in learning the correct way with great staff
Incredible training from Tristian and Boatwise. Now have more confidence with the boat and also an understanding of how to deal with different weather conditions. Tristian provided calm clear guidance and support throughout the process.
A+!! Definitely highly recommend. Tristian, has made us feel more confident in handling our boat. He has given my hubby and I great pointers to handle our boat well and safe. Thank you!
Friendly yet held us accountable to ensure we had the hands on skills and confidence. Did this course with my son to learn together. Highly recommended!
I have had 5 boating lessons with Tristian in 2024 @ Akuna Bay. There is a lot to learn about boating and safety.Tristian downloaded this information where it was understandable and practical.I feel much more confident behind the wheel now. thanks again !
Get your Boat Wise Checklist
