Able Sail Kingston
Able Sail programs have been offered in sailing centres across
Canada since 1980. The Kingston Program began in 2002. Programs
offering recreational and competitive sailing instruction for persons
with a disability now exist in over 20 communities in Canada. The
volunteer committee of Able Sail Kingston and the Kingston Yacht
Club Board is pleased to offer accesible sailing programs at KYC.
Participants in the “Learn to Sail” and “Come
Sail Away” programs sail in untippable, specially designed
dinghies and sailboats such at the “ Access 303” and
the larger 16 ft. “Martin 16”.
For more information on disabled sailing, please visit the Ontario
Sailing Able Sail site.
The Sailboats
The
Access Dinghy
is sailed by an individual seated in center of the boat facing
forward (instead of leaning over the side). A servo assist joystick
operates an electric winch controlling the sails and steering.
This opens up sailing to all people as this joystick can be controlled
by hand, foot, chin, or even one's breath! This is a revolution,
allowing even people with very profound disabilities to sail safely
and confidently.
The
Martin 16 is
easily driven, narrow; long hull for performance and control. The
cockpit features an adjustable, ergonomically designed helm seat
forward, with a second seat aft to accommodate a passenger or instructor.
A unique "joystick" controls the responsive, transom-hung
rudder.
Click
here to learn more about Able Sail Kingston Learn to Sail Programs
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