Cadet FAQs

What is the age range for sailing International Cadets?

The International Cadet class is designed for young sailors aged 7 to 17. It’s an excellent way for children to learn and develop their sailing skills in a structured and supportive environment.

What are the benefits of my child sailing in the Cadet class?

Sailing in the Cadet class offers numerous benefits, including physical fitness, skill development, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility. It also provides opportunities for social interaction, travel, and participation in a global sailing community.

Are Cadets a popular/well known boat to sail?

Absolutely. With Cadets sailed in more than 20 countries around the world, sailing Cadets provides young sailors with opportunities and experiences that are not possible with other two-handed boats. And, with a history stretching back to the 1960s, Fleet V & Sandy Bay have a long history of developing champion Cadet sailors.

Does my child need previous sailing experience to join the Cadet class?

Although it’s helpful, no previous sailing experience is necessary to start sailing International Cadets. The class is suitable for complete beginners as well as those who have some sailing background. Training programs and coaching are available to help new sailors get started.

Can I get private coaching for my child if they need/want it?

Yes, we can put you in touch with our roster of trusted coaches who can spend one-on-one time with your child to help take their skills to the next level.

How safe is sailing a Cadet?

Safety is a top priority in our fleet. The boats are designed with young sailors in mind, featuring stable and manageable designs. Additionally, our club provides safety boats (staffed by our volunteer parents and carers) for all trainings and regattas. Our coaches follow and instill strict safety protocols during training and competitions.

Are there opportunities for my child to compete in regattas?

Yes, the Cadet offers numerous opportunities for young sailors to compete in local, national, and international regattas. These events provide valuable experience and the chance to meet and compete with sailors from around the world.

What equipment will my child need to start sailing?

To start sailing a Cadet, your child will need basic sailing gear, including a life jacket, sailing gloves, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. You can see a full list of our recommended gear here. 

Do I need a boat?

If your child is going to be the crew for an experienced helm, you will not need a boat. If you’re keen on helming, but don’t have a boat, then we have ones you can hire as well as a list of local boats for sale. More information on that here.

My child wants to crew. How do I find a helm?

We often have helms who are looking for a crew or are happy to sail with new crews from time to time. Just get in touch with us and we’ll connect you with anyone available.

My child wants to helm. How do I find a crew?

We often have crews who are looking for a helm or are happy to sail with experienced Helms from time to time. Just get in touch with us and we’ll connect you with anyone available. Otherwise, it’s often easiest if you and your child can identify someone yourself who might be suitable.

How can I get involved as a parent/carer?

Getting involved as a volunteer in our club is great fun. Check out our volunteer information page. <link to Fleet V & Volunteering page> Then just get in touch, let us know how much time you have and what your interests are and we’ll work together to find a role that suits you.

How much is this going to cost?

Here’s a rough outline of the costs associated with sailing cadets.

• Boats can cost between $2,000 (beginner) and $7,000 (top end). 
• Insurance for the boat usually costs in the region of $x,xxx/year.
• Storage at SBSC for a Cadet costs in the region of $280/year.
• Equipment (wetsuits, life jacket, etc.) can cost over $750 in total but can be significantly cheaper if you buy used. Sandy Bay Sailing Club has a great buy & sell page here. <link to SBSC FB Buy & Sell page>
• The annual membership fee for Sandy Bay Sailing Club is $419 for an individual or $602 for a family. Club membership also gets your child their Australian Sailing number (if they don’t already have one). You can join here.
• The annual membership fee, collected in late September, for Fleet V is $55. Those who join later pay a pro-rated fee. You can join Fleet V here.
• Special training camps (typically a weekend) can cost between $50 and $100 per sailor.
• Fees for local regattas vary by regatta but are typically around $50 to $100 per sailor.
• Travel and fees for mainland and international regattas vary by event.

What do I have to do to join?

To start sailing Cadets, you need to become a member of both Sandy Bay Sailing Club as well as Fleet V.

I have more questions. Who do I talk to?

Just email us on fleetvpresident@gmail.com