Homepage - Sailability NSW

Freedom on the Water

Changing lives one sail at a time.

Who we are

Sailability New South Wales (Sailability NSW) promotes the activity of sailing to everyone regardless of disability throughout New South Wales. We are a state level organisation that provides support to 24 Sailability branches operating throughout New South Wales. Each branch provides sailing opportunities that vary from one branch to another due to different local factors. Learn to sail, recreational and competitive sailing are offered using experienced volunteer sailors as well as a wide array of other volunteers who make sure that sailing is a safe, ordered, fun and rewarding experience for participants. Please check out the branches near you.

What we do

Sailability operates fleets of boats designed so people with disabilities can enjoy the adventure of sailing.

Recreational Sailing

Sailing is an ideal lifelong avocation. Each day on the water is different which keeps sailing interesting and challenging.

Competitive Sailing

Some branches offer sailors with varying disabilities the challenge of competition. Depending upon the branch solo racing, racing with another skipper, and crew racing may be available.

Learn to Sail

Sailors with a disability with the interest can learn to become accomplished sailors, even becoming a competitive sailor.

Volunteer Opportunities

Each branch requires a number of volunteers in order to successfully operate. Sailability branch. Many of the volunteer roles that make Sailability work are ideal for people who want to help others in their community and do not require sailing experience.

How we started

Sailability in NSW first appeared as Sailability Gosford, formed in April 1995 using yachts sailed on Brisbane Waters. The foundation members of the first club included Denis Critchley, John Woodward, Ruth Miller and Phil Vardy. Sailability also becomes a member of NSW Sports Council for the Disabled.

Find a Branch Near You

Click on the Sailability branch graphic on the scroll below or click on the red button for a map and listing of Sailability branches.

Batemans Bay

Belmont

Central West

Cronulla

Crystal Bay

Dobroyd

Gosford

Great Lakes

Illawarra

Kogarah Bay

Manly

Mannering Park

Manning Great Lakes

Middle Harbour

New England

Northern Rivers

Penrith Lakes

Pittwater

Port Macquarie

Port Stephens

Rushcutters Bay

Shoalhaven

Toronto

Tweed Heads

Events

See below for a listing of Sailability-related events. Click on the event for more details.

Port Stephens Cup

Regatta
08/03/2025 12:00 am
09/03/2025 12:00 am

… Continue Reading Port Stephens Cup

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2025 Hansa Class Worlds

World Championships
24/03/2025 12:00 am
30/03/2025 12:00 am

The 2025 Hansa Worlds will be held in Sydney, Australia at Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, from March 24th to 30th March 2025. Invited classes will be the Hansa 2.3, 303 singles and doubles, Liberty and SKUD 18. See http://hansaworlds.org for more details. The Notice of Race (NOR) is available...

Training Courses

Sailability Dobroyd

Sailability Dobroyd offers a racing program through Dobroyd Aquatic Club in their open event on weekends. Slots for interested parties who are not regular Dobroyd members are available on a first come first served basis. Contact John Sanderson at john.sanderson@gmail.com or 0403 850 552 for details. Coaching and training may be available upon request.

Learn more

Sailability Canberra

Sailability Canberra is organising sailing and coaching clinics leading up to international Hansa Championship in March 2025. Please check this website as details will be updated as available. Contact Jason Elwes at racingtraing@sailabilitynsw.com.au or 0412 653 467.

Learn more

Be a volunteer

Each Sailability branch needs enthusiastic people with a wide range of interests, experience, and skills. Volunteers are needed to perform a wide variety of tasks both on land and on the water. Please click to Volunteering button below to learn more.

Donate To Sailability

Sailability NSW is registered the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. Sailability NSW and its branches keep administrative costs to a minimum. Donations go to purchasing boats and equipment needed to operate them, maintaining boats and equipment, and operating Sailability activities. Please click the For Information on Donating Click Here button below.