The program will be offered to children aged between seven and 12 years during the school holidays starting on September 20 - subject to NSW COVID-19 public health orders - at the centre previously known as Port Stephens Sailing and Aquatic Club.

The club was taken over by the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club in 2020.

Bay Sailing Centre member Dennis Hume was on hand this week to accept the training boats from Andrew Omotosho, a senior sailing instructor from the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club.

"The boats used are specifically designed to suit children and help them learn quickly and confidently. The club is hoping to run a few 'Tackers' introduction sessions (September 12, 18 and 19) if Port Stephens is out of lockdown by then," Hume said.

Term based programs are generally of 9-10 weeks duration with Tackers 1 - Having Fun; Tackers 2 - Tricks and Techniques; and Tackers 3 - Sailing Fast.

They have been specifically designed to keep children engaged with short but interesting activities where kids have fun whilst learning fundamental sailing skills and habits without even noticing.

All 'Tackers' courses are delivered by instructors who are Australian Sailing qualified and accredited.

The sailing academy manager says the program offers the opportunity for primary aged children to experience the fun of sailing in a safe and nurturing environment.

The 'Tackers' program is conducted in the safe sheltered waters of the upper harbour and under the supervision of professional qualified sailing instructors. The program allows all children the chance to try sailing regardless of whether they have ever had any experience in sailing or not.

"Sailing is a fabulous sport that is genuinely a whole lot of fun. Many kids' lives change when they begin sailing. Apart from being a healthy outdoor experience, it is a sport where you get to meet new friends and learn new skills."

There is no limit on the number of times a child completes a course level, in fact they encourage children to spend as much time as they need at each level rather than just the minimum 20 hours prescribed.

"We recognise that some children take a bit longer to gain confidence or to learn certain skills and we can work to accommodate that. It may take several sailing seasons to complete all three levels confidently."

The program will be conducted under the current guidelines of the academy's COVID Safety Plan and any questions or concerns should be directed to the Sailing Office on 4940 8188 or via email at sailingacademy@ncyc.net.au.

The NCYC is helping kids get active by making the $100 Active Kids program available.

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