Accessible Sailing

This summer, Tom, Gord, and their staff team once again welcomed people to Rondeau for two weeks of Accessible Sailing, and what a season it was! Over 75 people had the opportunity to set sail, feeling the wind in their sails and the joy of being out on the open water.

From first-time sailors experiencing the freedom of the lake, to returning sailors eager to get back on board, the program offered unforgettable moments for everyone involved. The program is part of Rondeau Yacht Club’s Access BOOM program, an inclusion-based sailing school designed for students with adaptive needs. For years, the Access BOOM program has partnered with clubs, schools, and community organizations across Ontario to open the world of sailing to people with disabilities and every summer, we’re grateful to be part of that story.

A big reason this program is possible is the specially designed Access Dinghies, boats created with accessibility in mind. These remarkable dinghies make sailing both safe and empowering:

• Stability: A weighted centerboard and keel prevent capsizing.

• Comfort: Forward-facing seating provides security and ease.

• Accessibility: Joystick steering and roller-furling sails make handling simple, even for sailors with high physical or cognitive support needs.

Together, these features give people the chance to sail independently, something that may have once felt out of reach.