For love of sailing - and the kids!

The Sail Africa banners have become a familiar site at regattas across South Africa.  But the heart of this organisation - geared towards introducing children to sailing in a fun way - lies in Durban and more specifically on the lawns of the Royal Natal Yacht Club and in the dinghy boat-yard and slipway of Durban's Point Yacht Club.

Sailing, like any other sport, has its seasons and there have been times when the low number of entries in races seemed discouraging.  However, the activity, laughter, mischief and energy of the Sail Africa Water Rats and C Dogs have remained constant and an inspiration to everyone watching the youngsters take to the water.

Water Rat Dinghy Programme



Sailing courses for beginners are presented over successive weekends and during school holidays and are structured according to increasing levels of competence.

All Sail Africa courses are ISAF accredited and also carry the South African Sailing stamp of approval. 

In ensuring that courses are run according to international standards, Sail Africa continues to make an invaluable contribution to sailing as well as the development of its students.  

Keelboat Youth Program (KYP)

Sail Africa provides youngsters with comprehensive theoretical and practical training in the basics of sailing - and then leads them from the dinghy park to the moorings and and on to L26 keelboats where they have the opportunity to apply the skills they have learned in a bigger pond.  

Here the young sailors also learn how to function as part of a crew and to both teach and learn from others.  

L34 Keelboat Programme

Sail Africa’s flagship is her L34 “Spirit of Anna Wardley”. The following South Africa Sailing (SAS) approved courses are offered to youngsters and adults aged 16 years and upwards:
 
  • Yacht Hand 
  • Day Skipper 
  • Mileage trips (for Coastal Skipper certification) 
  • Coastal Skipper Theory (preparation for SAS theory exam)