Learn to Sail in Dinghies
The off the beach learn to sail program is run on most Sundays inside school terms. Each course lasts approximately 8 – 10 weeks. The program is open to all with separate programs for juniors (8 yrs to 13) and adults (14 yrs +).
All of our programs are conducted by Australian Sailing’s Qualified instructors and assistant instructors. Each course follows the syllabus set by Australian Sailing, and qualifications will be recognised by most sailing clubs around Australia.
Tackers 1, 2 and 3
Tackers is a fun introductory, games-based sailing program designed for kids aged 7-12 yrs, delivered at recognised Tackers Centres, predominantly who are affiliated sailing clubs. Kids don’t need to have any sailing experience or club membership to participate. All the equipment, including the boats, is provided.
The Tackers Program is delivered in small groups by an Australian Sailing qualified Instructor and Assistant Instructors.
There are three levels that kids can progress through:
In Tackers 1 – Having Fun. Kids sail in pairs in small boats. It’s a great way to meet new friends and kids have the chance to sail with others in their group.
Tackers 2 – Tricks & Techniques. If kids are confident, they can sail a boat on their own with lots of support, supervision and encouragement from the Instructor and Assistant Instructors.
The final level is Tackers 3 – Sailing Fast! This is a chance for the kids to sail boats on their own, learning how to make the boat go faster and playing more games, all whilst still under the guidance and supervision of the Instructor and Assistant Instructors.
Each level involves approximately 20 hours of participation as a series of sessions over several weeks Sunday morning.
The fun doesn’t stop when kids finish Tackers 3. After Tackers it is time to move onto “Green Fleet. Green Fleet is a type of introductory fun racing where kids learn how to go round a race course with kids of similar ability, where the main focus is on enjoyment. If kids want to do more racing they move from Green Fleet into club racing.
Start Sailing 1, 2 and Better Sailing
Start Sailing 1 and 2 are the entry level for adults and teenagers to get into sailing.
Dinghies are small sailing boats and a great way to get into sailing. Sailing a dinghy can be fun and exhilarating and this Program has been developed to provide a safe introduction to dinghy sailing.
Start Sailing 1 – Using club owned boats, you learn the fundamental skills of sailing and are introduced to the fun of dinghy sailing in a safe and supportive environment
Start Sailing 2 – Here is your opportunity to master all of the fundamental dinghy sailing skills. By now, you will now be equipped to sail your dinghy on your own voyages of discovery
Better Sailing – Building in confidence, you will now be able to handle stronger winds as you develop the skills required to get maximum speed from your dinghy. Your journey speeds up as you experience the thrill of trapezing and using a spinnaker
Start Racing: OFF the BEACH Racing on Sunday Afternoons
Having mastered sailing upwind in a dinghy, and able to right the boat after a capsize (capsize is a normal part of sailing in dinghies), it is time to join the Whitsunday Sailing Club Off the Beach dinghy racing. Typically 3 races are conducted each afternoon, with racing taking place close to shore right in front of the club. Racing is a great fun way to demonstrate your sailing skills, build confidence and to learn from others. All races have adequate safety boats patrolling the course to help out if required.
You can start by renting a club boat, however it will soon be time to step into your own boat.
For More Information
Contact Ross Chisholm on 0429 584 787, email to sailing@whitsundaysailingclub.com.au, click on the Contact tab above or CLICK HERE