Northern Territory set for a bumper sailing season
2021 is proving to be another bumper sailing season in NT as the sport has been a popular choice for people whilst travel has been limited and with domestic tourists flocking to explore Australia’s Top End.
The Dry Season has just begun and the weather is fantastic with the sailing season getting into full swing across all three clubs. If you are planning a trip to NT, below is a snapshot of activities you might want to coincide with your trip.
GOVE BOAT CLUB
In 2020 GBC ran their first regatta with great success as over 100 sailors travelled across remote Arnhem Land to compete and stay at the beautiful GBC campgrounds whilst they explored the region. The initial regatta was so popular that local interest in sailing has soared and the club has had to employ an instructor for the Dry Season to keep up with demand!
They run regular social club racing in Lasers, they have a Cruising Division for larger boats. The club has campgrounds on the waterfront with powered sites and good liveaboards facilities for visitors. The regatta is scheduled again in October, so if you are looking for adventure why not put in an Expression of Interest and take the plunge…
DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION
DBCYA who usually only races in the Wet Season is dabbling in some Dry Season activity for less experienced boat owners. The Stokes Hill Cup is a 6 race series spread out over the season. It’s an all-in event with simplified rules to encourage boats out of the marina and onto the race course and give it a go and build confidence for the Wet Season Series later in the year.
The much anticipated Viking Funeral is also back on again in 2021! The biggest event on the DBCYA calendar is scheduled for August 14. A much loved event where a Viking Boat is sacrificed with flaming bow & arrows, live music & costumes abound.
DARWIN SAILING CLUB
DSC is again abuzz with tourists and locals alike. The only Discover Sailing Centre in Darwin the club is having a hard time keeping up with demand and is currently looking for a full-time instructor to add to their family. With a flexible contract length it’s a great way to see the north. Check out the job advertisement.
Like the other clubs the DSC has quite a bit on the calendar with interest in sailing quite high. This has created a unique problem as Darwin has run out of second Lasers! If you have boats for sale locally please get in contact.
As well as regular Club sailing, this season the club will host a few events…the Junior Sail Regatta, aimed at getting kids new to the sport of sailing onto the race course in a fun and relaxed way, kicks it off in the mid-year holidays. It’s closely followed by the NT Championships & Arafura Regatta in late July, and then in August they will again host the NT Womens Regatta after the success of 2020.
If 2021 is already booked for you maybe consider 2022 as the DSC will play host to the Minnow Nationals in July & Oceania Laser Masters in August.
For southerner travelling to the Territory why not contact the DSC to get on the water? The club is offering packages for half day and full day sailing in both Elliott 7 and Pacers. An opportunity to explore the harbour with an instructor close by.
As the sailing continues if you need inspiration check out the latest NT Sailing promotional video below:
If you are planning a trip to Australia’s Top End, be sure to drop in, say hello and join in a sail!
