Social yachting
With plenty of waterways to explore, it's easy to understand why 20 percent of Aussies engage in some form of boating annually.
30 September 2020
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With almost one in five Australians having access to a boat or watercraft, you can understand the increasing appeal of boating as a reason to be with family and friends.
Australia has one of the best coastlines in the world, and alongside an abundance of spectacular rivers, estuaries, dams and inland bodies of water, Australia’s recreational boaters are spoilt for choice.
With international travel restrictions in place, recreational boating has boomed over the last six months with Aussies turning to recreational boating as they look to enjoy their leisure time locally.
More than a dozen studies have shown that being with family and friends, relaxing and being outdoors and close to nature are the primary reasons people spend time on the water.
The boating club scene in Australia is as extensive as it is diverse. Sail clubs cater for all people, with and without a boat, and often offer sailing lessons using their equipment and resources – something that is particularly appealing to the younger generation.
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For those keen on experiencing boating on a larger scale, many would be surprised at the number of club members needing crew. Sail clubs of all sizes are located around Australia and a little research on what your local club has may surprise you.
For many, sailing is their entry into recreational boating. If you ask boaters about their youth, many will tell you it consisted of sailing classes and time with friends as part of a sailing club.
Sailing is a fun, safe, accessible and affordable sport that welcomes participation from people of all backgrounds, ages and abilities.
There are many different ways to get started in sailing, with programs like Australian Sailing’s Discover Sailing program providing a range of opportunities for you to continue sailing at clubs as you develop your skills, experience and confidence.
Sailing clubs can be found on the coast, rivers and inland lakes in some spectacular locations around the country. There are nearly 400 sailing clubs around Australia with more than 60,000 registered club members and 100,000 people regularly participating in the sport.
You don’t need to own a boat to enjoy sailing, either. There are clubs that provide boats and boat owners looking for crew. Also, you don’t need to be a member to get started in sailing because all the Discover Sailing programs are accessible for people who are not members of clubs.
Our beautiful waterways are a magnet for Aussies to get together with family and friends. Recreational boating has been a key conduit to make those experiences even better.
Boating is for everyone, even if you don’t own a boat. Join a club, hire a houseboat, make a booking to cruise the Whitsundays. Social boating is good for your health, both physically and mentally.
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