DBYC Friday Afternoon Learn to Sail – Tackers Program

DBYC is offering our 6-week Friday afternoon Learn to Sail program, running from Friday 6 February to Friday 20 March 2026
(No session on Friday 6 March due to the long weekend).

Sessions run from 4:30pm to 7:30pm, with Tiny Tackers finishing at 7:00pm.

Program options

• Tiny Tackers (ages 5–7)

• Tackers 1 – Having Fun

• Tackers 2 – Tips & Tricks

• Tackers 3 – Sailing Fast

This program is a fun-focused introduction to sailing, covering all the basics in a safe and supportive environment.

• Tackers 1 focuses on building water confidence and learning how to rig a boat, tack, and sail across the wind.

• Tackers 2 keeps the fun front and centre while introducing gybing, getting out of irons, and sailing around a triangle course.

• Tackers 3 focuses on advancing sailing skills through games and on-water adventures.

Once enrolled, sailors will be grouped into appropriate classes based on age and ability.

---

Minimum age

Sailors must be 8 years or older to participate in the Tackers courses.
(Tiny Tackers is specifically designed for younger sailors aged 5–7.)

---

What to bring

All sailors are required to wear:

• A lifejacket

• Hat and sunscreen

• Closed-toe shoes (old runners or wetsuit boots — no thongs or Crocs)

Please bring your own lifejacket if possible. These can be purchased from outdoor retailers such as Anaconda, Sport Phillip Marine or BCF. DBYC has a limited supply available to borrow if requested. You'll also need a full water bottle, snack, towel and a change of clothes each session.

---

Course Overview
This course aims to build on the fun participants had in Tackers 1, to progress their sailing skills. 

Course Prerequisites

• Water confident
• 7-12 years-old
• Skills, knowledge and experience gained in Tackers 1.

Who should do this course?

This course is designed for participants who have completed Tackers 1.

Course Outcome

By the end of the Tackers 2 course, the participants will be able to:

• Get out of irons on their own
• Safely gybe the boat
• Correctly use the tiller extension
• Sailing around a triangle course, including:
  • Upwind - on a close hauled course tacking through the 'no go zone'
  • Downwind - with centreboard up
  • Reaching - correct sail position
• Demonstrate a 360 and 720-degree turn

You will gain your Tackers 2 completion certificate.