Tackers 1
Tackers 1 is all about having fun and getting comfortable on the water. Sailing double-handed with a buddy and an instructor close by, kids play games that quietly teach the fundamentals — how a boat moves, where the wind comes from, and how to stay safe. No experience is needed, just water confidence and a willingness to get a little wet.
Book Tackers 1
Flinders Flinders Yacht Club
Barwon Heads Barwon Heads Sailing Association
Metung Metung Yacht Club
Paynesville Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club
Williamstown Williamstown Sailing Club
- No upcoming datesRegister interest and be notified
Werribee Wyndham Harbour
- No upcoming datesRegister interest and be notified
Course Overview
Tackers is more than just a sailing program—it’s an adventure where kids can explore the water, make new friends and build confidence, all while having the time of their lives. It’s a safe, structured way to spark their curiosity and give them a taste of freedom on the open water. With expert supervision and loads of hands-on fun, this program helps kids develop independence, teamwork and a love for adventure—all whilst learning how to sail.
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.
Who it’s for
Complete beginners aged 7–12 who are water confident and want a fun, low-pressure first taste of sailing.
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn
- Sailing with a partner
- Steering with a tiller extension
- Basic sail control
- Where the wind comes from
- Launching & retrieving a boat safely
- Figure-8 knot & basic rigging
By the end you’ll be able to
- Steer with a tiller extension under tow
- Tie a figure-8 knot
- Tack (push turn) and gybe (pull turn)
- Reach around a simple figure-8 course
- Follow the safety boat upwind and downwind
Course Outcomes
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