Meet Andrew Parkes: Your sailing mentor

Discover the passion and experience behind Andrew Parkes Sailing. Learn about Andrew's journey on the water, his expertise, and the unique approach he brings to professional sailing services in Sydney.

My sailing journey began early

My dad taught my sister and I to sail when I was 10 years old. I learnt to sail on a Heron dinghy on Narrabeen Lakes in Sydney. When I got a bit older, I was a sailing instructor there for the local council during the school holidays and I enjoyed helping other kids to learn to sail.  From there we started racing and then I bought my first boat, a Sabot... which leaked like a sieve! Anyway, I sailed that boat for a few years and then started progressing through the ranks in dinghies and skiffs. I loved being on the water.

Extensive experience from dinghies to super maxis

I've been very fortunate in sailing. I left school and started my sailmaking apprenticeship with Mike Fletcher at Elvstrom Sails. That opened the door for me to sail all sorts of boats, all around the world. I've been involved in two America's Cup campaigns, one in the Defender trials and one in the Challenger trials. I've sailed everything from dinghies through to super Maxis and won numerous state and national championships.

Filling a unique gap in the sailing market

I feel that there's a niche in the sailing market that isn't catered for. There are countless platforms and organisations that cater for the learn-to-sail audience. There are numerous groups that assist elite sailors like Olympians and professional sailing teams. There aren't many options in between and I feel that I can offer the online and onboard assistance that the market wants and needs. As an industry expert, I'm seeing more new yacht owners buying boats with little or no experience, and they have no way to learn. I also see enthusiastic amateur sailors who are so keen to learn, but they have no pathway to do so.

"Andrew’s expertise and passion for sailing are truly inspiring. His guidance has been invaluable, and I highly recommend his services to anyone looking to improve their skills."

Graham, Melbourne, Australia