SOMERS WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Half-Season Open Skiff Hire: Letting Young Sailors Own the Water at Somers Yacht Club
A seasonal hire that gives junior sailors access to lightweight Open Skiffs from Somers Yacht Club—this guide explains availability, membership rules and the safety basics you need to know.
Half-Season Open Skiff Hire: Letting Young Sailors Own the Water at Somers Yacht Club.
Somers Yacht Club’s half-season Open Skiff hire puts lightweight, versatile boats into the hands of eager young sailors so they can practice, race and grow confidence on the water outside formal club sessions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Open Skiffs: Designed for Young Sailors
Open Skiffs are lightweight, durable and easy to handle—built to teach the fundamentals of sailing, support junior racing and let children develop confidence on the water.
Seasonal Freedom Beyond Club Hours
A half-season hire lets members take skiffs out at times not listed on the club calendar, offering extra practice windows to build skills between formal sessions.
Membership and Safety Parameters
Hires are available to club members only; boats may be used when patrol boats are not present, so sailors are strongly advised never to go out alone.
What the day feels like
What the Half-Season Hire Feels Like
The half-season hire hands responsibility—and freedom—to junior sailors: they rig a compact skiff, head out under their own judgement and use the extra on-water hours to practice handling, tacks, and the rhythms of wind and tide between supervised club sessions.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire suits—and who should pause.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Half-season hire runs January 1 through April 25.
Specific gear guidance is provided by the club—contact the club contact listed below to confirm required safety kit and apparel for junior sailors.
This activity is available to members only; reach out to the club contact to discuss securing an Open Skiff for the half season.
Talk to Marie Labat before booking on 0401 969 117 for availability and to confirm any club-specific requirements.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When is the half-season hire available?
The half-season hire window runs from January 1st to April 25th.
Who can hire an Open Skiff?
Boat hire is available to Somers Yacht Club members only.
Can boats be taken out when a patrol boat is not present?
Yes—boats may be taken out at times not listed on the club calendar and without a patrol boat present, but sailors are strongly advised never to go out alone.
Are the skiffs available during Sailing School sessions?
The club retains usage rights for Sailing School sessions, so availability may be limited during those times.
How do I book or get more information?
Contact Marie Labat before booking on 0401 969 117 for details on availability and hire terms.
Are Open Skiffs suitable for junior racing?
Yes—Open Skiffs are appropriate for learning and participating in junior racing as part of skill development.