Phillip Island tours is famous for its stunning views, beautiful beaches and wildlife but it also has a thriving sailing scene that attracts both locals and visitors. In the heart of Phillip Island is the Cowes Yacht Club Inc., a sailing community that is warm and alive. With a long history and top notch sailing programs the club is the perfect place to get out on the water and experience the thrill of sailing whether you are an old salt or just starting out.
Start Your Sailing Journey
Cowes Yacht Club is situated on the picturesque Cleeland Bight, right on the Bass Strait and beyond. One of the best sailing spots on Phillip Island, the club caters for all sailors, with a range of courses, events and facilities to ensure a sailing experience to remember. Whether you want to just potter around in beach boats or push yourself in a national race, Cowes Yacht Club is the place to start.
About Cowes Yacht Club Inc.
The Cowes Yacht Club Inc. has been around for decades and is the heart of the Phillip Island sailing community. Its location is perfect for launching across Bass Strait or to French Island and Churchill Island. The club has been a sailing haven for years, with activities and events from fun introductory courses for beginners to national competitions. The club has boat storage, boat launch areas and access to shallow water and deeper water for all sorts of sailing.
For visitors to the club you’ll find not just the basics for launching boats but a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are an old salt or a newbie you’ll feel at home here. The club’s sailing programs cater for all needs from beginner lessons on dinghy sailing skills and basic sailing rules to advanced racing and boat handling.
Why Sail at Cowes Yacht Club?
Suitable for All Levels
Phillip Island has perfect sailing conditions for most of the year. The waters around Cowes are sheltered with moderate winds and steady currents making them ideal for relaxed sailing and fun event racing. Whether you are sailing in Bass Strait or cruising along the island’s coastline you’ll find the conditions here will keep all levels of sailors on their toes.
One of the best things about sailing from Cowes Yacht Club is the ability to practice in a safe and controlled environment. The club has rescue patrol boats for extra security during races or water sailing courses. The sailing waters around the club are also great for learning with shallow water for beginners and deeper water for those who want to push themselves.
Sailing Programs
Cowes Yacht Club has a sailing program to suit all levels of sailors. For those just starting out, the Cowes Yacht Club Discover Sailing Program has everything you need to get you on the water. The program covers basic sailing rules, sailing terminology and boat procedures in a fun and interactive way.
The popular Tackers Program is for kids aged 7 to 12 and has three levels—Tackers 1, Tackers 2 and Tackers 3. These games-based sailing programs introduce kids to sailing in a fun and educational way. By focusing on beach sailing theory and simple navigation skills, Tackers gives young sailors the confidence to handle a boat on their own. The more advanced programs like the Green Fleet build on these basic skills and prepare participants for club racing and introduce them to racing concepts.
For adults the club has lessons and courses to suit all levels of experience, from learning boat trim and boat handling to advanced sailing skills. The sailing school also has programs to progress from beginner to more advanced levels with dedicated sessions to increase your sailing ability and prepare you for aggregate races and the Catamaran National Challenge. And experience sessions to hone your skills before racing in club races.
Events and Competitions
Cowes Yacht Club has a range of events throughout the year including fun events and competitive races that attract sailors from all over Australia. One of the highlights is the Catamaran National Challenge where catamaran sailors compete for extra trophies including an all female crew trophy. Other popular events include outdoor races, family club environment activities and the Ross Wilson concert during the island’s annual Arts Fest.
Racing at Cowes Yacht Club
The CYC Club is also a racing hub with regular races and regattas for all levels of sailors. Races are held in varying conditions from light winds to more challenging winds so there are plenty of opportunities to test your skills. Sailors can check the race results sheet after every event and track their progress throughout the racing season. Whether you’re competing in an aggregate race or a common race there’s always an opportunity to improve your skills and be part of the Australian sailing community.
Sail Phillip Island
Sailing from Cowes is the best way to see Phillip Island’s coastline. Sail around Churchill Island, see the wildlife at Phillip Island Nature Parks or sail out to French Island for a more secluded experience. Bass Strait voyages are exhilarating and a trip to Cowes Beach Phillip Island adds to the fun of the day.
Wildlife and Scenic Views
While you’re sailing you’ll see local wildlife like dolphins and seals. The island is also home to Phillip Island Aquabikes and Phillip Island Flyboard so there’s no shortage of adventure on the water. With the right weather and basic sailing rules you can have a day of comfortable sailing and take in the island’s scenery.
Cowes Yacht Club Facilities
Cowes Yacht Club has great facilities including boat ramps, boat storage and a dedicated patrol boat. The club also has boats for beginners like beach boats that are easy to handle in shallow water and deeper water. Visitors can also rent gear from nearby shops like Island Surfboards so you have everything you need for the day.
Social and Community
Cowes Yacht Club isn’t just about sailing – it’s also a social hub. Throughout the year the club hosts social events from barbecues to formal events like certificate presentations for course graduates. Sailors receive certificates of achievement for completing different programs from the Tackers Program for kids to more advanced courses for adults. The club is a family orientated club with activities for all ages.
Supporting the Local Community
Cowes Yacht Club is involved with the local community and works with Bass Coast Shire Council to promote safe and sustainable sailing. The club also supports local businesses including opportunity shops and the market stalls on Phillip Island. During the Arts Fest the club partners with community groups to host events and activities like the People’s Choice Awards.
Book Your Sailing Experience
If you’re sailing from Cowes Yacht Club be sure to book in advance especially during peak season. The club recommends booking hours in advance or even a week in advance to ensure you get a spot. The booking process is easy and once you’ve completed your booking you’re ready to hit the water. Check the cancellation policy before you book.
Best Time to Sail
Sailing is year round at Cowes Yacht Club but the best time to visit is during the summer months from November to April when the winds are more consistent and the weather is perfect for both on water and beach sailing theory. During these months the club hosts its most popular fun events and races and attracts sailors from all over Australia.
Conclusion
Sailing from Cowes Yacht Club on Phillip Island is like no other. With competitive racing, family programs and the chance to explore Bass Strait and French Island the club has it all. Whether you are just learning the basics of dinghy sailing or an experienced sailor racing with the club Cowes Yacht Club has something for everyone.
FAQs
What’s the best sailing program for beginners?
Cowes Yacht Club Discover Sailing Program has a fun introductory, games-based sailing program called Tackers 1. Ideal for young sailors just starting out.
Can I hire a boat at Cowes Yacht Club?
Yes, Cowes Yacht Club Inc. has boat hire available, so you can hire a boat suitable for your skill level and preference.
What are the age requirements for the Tackers Program?
Tackers Program is for kids 7 to 12 years old with levels Tackers 1 to Tackers 3 each focusing on different aspects of sailing.
Are there social events for members?
Yes, Cowes Yacht Club has social events from family barbecues to competitive sailing events with certificate presentations and event merchandise bags.
Do I need my own gear to sail at Cowes Yacht Club?
No, the club has boats available and nearby Island Surfboards has rental gear if you need it.