Tackers 1 at Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron

Give your child a fun and active introduction to sailing these school holidays at Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron.

Tackers 1 is a beginner sailing course for kids aged 7-12 who are new to sailing. No previous sailing experience or BYS membership is required. Through games and activities on and off the water, kids learn the basics of sailing while building confidence and having fun.

Why Tackers at BYS?

• Fun from the start: Sailing skills are introduced through games, activities and plenty of time on the water.

• A great first step into sailing: Kids get to experience being in a boat, learn new skills and become comfortable on the water.

• Make new friends: Kids sail in pairs and take part in group activities with other young sailors.

• Experienced instructors: Our instructors create a safe, supportive and encouraging environment for young sailors.

• Everything is provided: BYS provides the boats, lifejackets and sailing equipment.

• A pathway to keep sailing: Tackers 1 is the first step in the three-level Tackers pathway, with opportunities to continue developing skills through Tackers 2 and 3.

Every Tackers participant receives a BYS Tackers T-shirt to wear during the program.

What to wear

Sailing is a wet and active experience, so kids should be comfortable getting wet and have clothing and footwear suitable for sailing. A wetsuit is ideal, particularly in cooler weather.

Program fees

BYS members: $380
Non-members: $415

Fees include the $21.02 Australian Sailing fee.

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Course Overview
This course aims to provide children aged 7-12 with a fun, safe and affordable way to get into sailing. 

Course Prerequisites

• Water confident
• 7-12 years-old

Who should do this course?

This course is designed for participants who wish to have fun and learn the basics of sailing through games on and off the water.

Course Outcome

By the end of the Tackers 1 course, the participants will be able to:

• Steer with tiller extension under towing paddling power
• Tie a figure 8 knot, round twice and two half hitches
• Tack (push turn)
• Gybe (pull turn)
• Reach around a figure of 8 course using both tacking and gybing
• Sail with tiller extension
• Sail upwind and downwind by following the safety boat

You will gain your Tackers 1 completion certificate.