A Keelboat Symmetrical Spinnaker course is an introduction to crewing and helming a small keelboat using a symmetric spinnaker. The course is Australian Sailing Accredited and instructed by qualified Australian Sailing Instructors. This course introduces you to the fun and challenge of using symmetrical spinnakers.
Our Symmetrical Spinnaker course is conducted on our club 7.5m (25ft) keelboats which are perfect for teaching and learning. We will provide you with a life jacket for your course and a wet weather jacket if you need one. You will not need any special clothing for your course, however we request that you wear non-marking (or light coloured) soled shoes and make sure to bring warm clothing that you are able to get wet. On rainy or windy days it is a great idea to bring a towel and a change of clothes.
Each participant will receive a theory book and a log book during the Start Crewing Course. Please remember to bring your books with you to all of your keelboat courses. If you do not have them and would like to purchase them they are available for $45 from the boating office. You will receive a certificate of participation which may be emailed to you after the course.
We will have a lunch break each day and you are welcome to bring your own lunch or purchase lunch from our Member’s Bar. For safety reasons we are unable to take anyone on board who has consumed alcohol before or during the course.
Our Spinnaker Keelboat Programs are priced at $200pp and we do offer a member discount. If you would like to be notified when course dates are confirmed please email [email protected]
Click here for session times and dates
Length
- 6 hour One Day course (1 x 6 hr days)
A makeup date is also scheduled in the event of bad weather.
Symmetric Spinnaker Outcomes
| Sailing Element | Criteria |
| Hoisting | o Can rig sheets, braces, halyards and control lines (tweakers) o Can set up the pole o Knows the correct pre hoist procedure for attaching spinnaker o Can hoist efficiently |
| Trimming | o Understands the importance of correct pole position and height on all relevant points of sail o Use of sheet/control lines on all relevant points of sail |
| Gybing | o Knows the correct procedure for end-for-end gybing |
| Dropping | o Can set up a headsail prior to dropping spinnaker o Understands different drop techniques e.g. hatch, windward, leeward o Can stow spinnaker gear efficiently after drop |
| Other Skills and Techniques |
o Can helm effectively on all relevant points of sail o Understands optimum downwind angles for differing wind speeds / types of spinnaker o Can helm whilst gybing o Understands the importance of communication, preparation, teamwork and coordination when using spinnakers |
Symmetric Spinnaker Pre-requisites
Water confident.
Over 16 years or 12 years with a guardian.
Completed Start Crewing and Start Helming including all outcomes (or equivalent skills)
Who should do this course?
Anyone wanting to learn the basic fundamentals of using symmetric spinnakers
Next Steps
Following the Symmetric Spinnaker Course there are a number of options to continue your sailing:
- Apply for a Season Pass membership for unlimited courses over 12 month
- Repeat your Symmetric Spinnaker course to consolidate your knowledge and achieve all outcomes
- Continue onto a Start Racing course to learn the basics of racing
- Consider learning more about using Asymmetrical Spinnakers
- Join a crew looking for members and start club racing
- Explore our other courses