Everything about Tackers is designed to help kids between 7 and 12 learn new skills and have fun through sport. The boats used in Tackers programs are small and easy to handle, specifically designed to be sailed by children.
For those with younger siblings, or who are just keen to get in the water but aren’t quite 7 yet, RBYC has introduced “Tiny Tackers” – a sailing based program for 5 & 6 year old’s that encourages fun and confidence in and around the water.
The program has been developed by Australian Sailing, the national sailing body for Australia, and is run by accredited Discover Sailing Centres, which maintain the highest standards of coaching with a focus is on safety, games and fun
All-levels approach
Tiny Tackers – Little Tackers. This program is for fun in the sun, games on the beach and getting taken for a sail. Designed for 5 & 6 year olds, this program aims to increase confidence around boats and the water whilst slowly starting to introduce some of the equipment and vocabulary that sailors will learn in Tackers when they are a bit older.
Tackers 1 – Having Fun. This is where it all starts! You will 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 you feel confident, you can sail a boat on your own with lots of support, supervision and encouragement from our coaches.
Tackers 3 – Sailing Fast! This is a chance for you to sail on your own, learning how to make the boat go faster and playing more games, all whilst still under the guidance and supervision 0f our great coaches.
Each level involves around 15 hours of participation structured as a 4-5 day holiday program.
Life After Tackers – What’s next?
Junior Race Squad – Green fleet and Beyond
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe?
Safety is the top priority at RBYC. The club provides all the safety equipment needed and all instructors maintain current qualifications and certificates dictated by Australian Sailing and RBYC, including first aid training and working with children checks.
Do I need to be a member of the club?
You do not need to be a member of a club to take part in a Tackers program
Do I need a boat?
All boats are provided by RBYC
Will I be sailing on my own?
Tackers is a program delivered to small groups or participants of the same level of ability.
In Tackers 1 participants sail in pairs to become familiar with the skills needed to sail.
In Tackers 2 and Tackers 3 participants sometimes sail solo under close supervision from our group of qualified instructors and assistant instructors.
What do I need to bring?
– Clothes that can get wet – bathers (ie. shorts & rashie) or exercise clothing ideal (avoid cotton).
– Towel
– Closed-toe footwear that can get wet (beach shoes, old sneakers)
– Change of clothes
– Hat
– Water bottle
– Snack lunch (Tackers)
And if available:
– Windproof and waterproof jacket
– Wetsuit
– Sailing gloves (bike golf gloves etc are good too)
– Wetsuit boots
*PFD (lifejacket) Type 1 or Type 2 provided.
What to bring for winter sailing:
– All of the above plus;
– Woolen jumper
– Beanie
– Warm gloves
– Woolen socks
– Thermals
What’s Tackers Intro?
Tackers Intro allows you to trial a Tackers session without immediately committing to the full course. Every Tackers course has a Tackers Intro session held during the first day. The cost is $50, which can then be put towards the cost of the full Tackers course.