Sailability Rotorua​​​​​​​

Making Sailing availible to everyone...


Sailability Rotorua  (Bay of Plenty Disabled Sailing Trust) is a 'not for profit', volunteer-based organisation, offering sailing opportunities to anyone with a disability.

History

The origins of the Rotorua Sailability came from a small group of sailors from the Bay of Plenty Trailer Yacht Squadron. In conjunction with the Blind Foundation, they held a World regatta at our home on Lake Rotorua. To achieve this goal, a trust was formed to run the event. 

After this event, it became apparent to the group there was a greater need for sailing experiences, tailored to those with special needs and disabilities in the greater community. 

So, in 2009, our group diversified to encompass people with a larger and more varied range of disabilities, and came under the Internationally recognised "Sailability" banner, to be known as "Sailability Rotorua". Initially our group sailed from Sulphur Point in Rotorua but eventually we relocated to the water-sports centre on the Rotorua Lakefront and became associated with the Rotorua Yacht Club. 

Over the years, members have been involved with learning to sail, cruising, and racing. There are sailors involved with our group who participate in national and international regattas.

Since that time the club has run over the summer months, initially on the weekends. More recently, we have targeted local schools and training organisations that support students with unique needs and disabilities. This has enabled them to incorporate sailing into their curriculum.

It is our desire to expand the programme to develop sailing skills for the people of our much-loved community.


​​​​​​​Testamonials

"Our house has never been so peaceful since you took M..... sailing"


"That's what I do...I go sailing" 


"I really look forward to sailing" 


"J.... Really enjoys sailing"


"I've never had so much fun; its like sitting on a ball bearing!" R...