Get your kids into sailing in 2025!
There’s something magical about the freedom of sailing. The wind in your sails, the calm of the lake, and the adventure of charting your own course — it’s a skill that stays with you for life. If you’ve ever thought about introducing your kids to the world of sailing, Belmont 16s’ Tackers program is the perfect place to start.
Tackers is a nationally recognised learn-to-sail program designed specifically for children aged 7 to 12. It’s run in a fun, safe, and supportive environment with the aim of building confidence on the water while teaching essential sailing skills. And the best part? No prior sailing experience is needed, and kids don’t even need to own their own boat, Belmont 16s provides everything they need to get started.
What Is the Tackers Program?
Tackers is made up of three levels:
- Tackers 1: Having Fun — The introductory level, where kids learn the basics of sailing, including steering, controlling the boat, and understanding wind direction. It’s all about building confidence and having fun.
- Tackers 2: Tricks & Techniques — In this stage, kids build on their skills by learning more advanced techniques, such as sailing upwind and navigating different weather conditions.
- Tackers 3: Sailing Fast — This final stage focuses on refining skills and developing independence on the water. By the end of Tackers 3, kids can confidently sail a small boat on their own.
The program runs during school holidays and on weekends, making it easy to fit into your family’s schedule.
Why Sailing Is a Life-Changing Skill for Kids
Sailing is more than just a sport — it’s a life skill that fosters independence, resilience, and problem-solving. Here are some of the key benefits for children who learn to sail:
- Confidence: Tackers helps kids build confidence as they master new skills and take charge of their own boat.
- Resilience: Sailing can be challenging at times, and kids learn to persevere through difficulties, problem-solve, and adapt to changing conditions.
- Teamwork: While Tackers focuses on individual sailing, there are plenty of opportunities to collaborate and work as a team.
- Environmental Awareness: Sailing teaches kids to respect and appreciate the natural environment, especially wind and water conditions.
- Decision-Making Skills: Kids need to make quick decisions on the water, helping them develop critical thinking and independence.
What Parents Need to Know
- Cost: Tackers is an affordable entry point to sailing with Tackers one starting at $300 for a term – Belmont 16s provides boats and safety gear.
- Safety: Safety is a top priority. All sessions are run by qualified instructors, and children wear life jackets at all times.
- Equipment: Kids don’t need any special equipment to join Tackers, just bring sunscreen, a hat, and a sense of adventure!
FAQs
What if my child has never sailed before? No problem! Tackers is designed for complete beginners. No previous sailing experience is necessary.
Do kids need their own boat? No. Belmont 16s provides all the necessary equipment, including boats and life jackets.
What should my child bring? Kids should bring a towel, a change of clothes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat. All other gear is provided.
How do I enrol my child? Visit 16s.com.au/sailing to find more information on upcoming Tackers programs and secure your child’s place.
Set Sail on a New Adventure
If you’re looking for an activity that gets your kids outdoors, teaches valuable life skills, and provides endless fun, sailing is the way to go. Belmont 16s’ Tackers program offers a welcoming introduction to the sport, helping young sailors build confidence, resilience, and a lifelong love of the water.
Is this the year your kids discover their passion for sailing? There’s no better time to start. Enrol them in the Tackers program today and let the adventure begin!
