SOMERS WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Season-Long Open Skiff Hire at Somers: Let a Young Sailor Own the Water
Season hire of lightweight Open Skiffs from Somers Yacht Club gives junior sailors a season (approx. 30 weeks) of practice and development off the club calendar — this guide explains what to expect and how to book.
Season-Long Open Skiff Hire at Somers: Let a Young Sailor Own the Water.
Introduce your child to the exhilarating, hands-on work of small-boat sailing with a season hire of an Open Skiff at Somers Yacht Club. These lightweight, durable skiffs are designed for young sailors to learn handling, practice skills and take part in junior racing while building confidence on the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Skill-building in a Purpose-Built Junior Boat
Open Skiffs are lightweight, easy to handle and intended for young sailors learning the ropes — ideal for practicing boat handling and preparing for junior racing.
Freedom to Practise Beyond Club Days
Season hires may be taken out at times not listed on the club calendar, giving young sailors the freedom to practise outside formal club sessions — though sailors are strongly advised never to go out alone.
Low-Commitment, Season-Long Access
Hiring an Open Skiff for the season is an affordable way to support a child’s sailing development before committing to buying a boat, with the club retaining Sailing School usage rights during scheduled sessions.
What the day feels like
What a Season of Open Skiff Hire Feels Like
Across a season of roughly 30 weeks, a hired Open Skiff becomes a training platform: short on ceremony but rich in repetition — launches from the club, solo practice (with care), incremental skill gains and the occasional taste of junior racing. The boat is available for members to use outside scheduled club times, offering repeated, real‑world practice that accelerates learning.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this hire suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Open Skiffs are available for hire for a whole season — approximately 30 weeks.
This activity is available for members only. Please talk to Marie Labat before booking at 0401 969 117 to secure a season hire.
Contact the club for specific gear and equipment requirements and recommendations for junior sailors.
Hires may be taken out at times not listed on the club calendar and sometimes without a patrol boat present; sailors are strongly advised never to go out alone and must respect Sailing School session times.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long does a season hire run?
A seasonal hire covers the whole season — that is approximately 30 weeks.
Who is eligible to hire an Open Skiff?
Seasonal hire is available to Somers Yacht Club members only.
Can my child take the boat out outside club days?
Yes — with a season hire the boat may be taken out at times not listed on the club calendar, but sailors are strongly advised never to go out alone.
Do Sailing School sessions limit hire use?
The club retains usage rights for Sailing School sessions; outside of those times hired boats can be used by members.
How do I book a seasonal hire?
Contact Marie Labat at 0401 969 117 before booking to arrange hire and confirm availability.
Are Open Skiffs suitable for beginners?
Open Skiffs are designed for young sailors to build skills and confidence and are commonly used for learning and junior racing.