Celebrating Women in Sailing this International Women’s Day!
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the incredible women who have made waves in the world of sailing, navigating uncharted waters, breaking records, and inspiring us all. From racing across oceans to commanding ships and embracing the freedom of the sea, women have consistently demonstrated that they possess the resilience, skill, and passion necessary to be sailors and mariners.
We honor these fearless women who have faced the wind, conquered the tides, and proven that the sea belongs to everyone.
West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation encourages women to learn how to sail
The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation’s ambition is to encourage and empower women to join the world of sailing. One of the WISH Foundation’s key initiatives is the opportunity for women to participate in sail training on their traditional Carriacou sloop, “New Moon”. The aim is to foster an inclusive environment where women can learn to sail, navigate, and be part of the race crew, whether they are experienced sailors or absolute beginners.
One of the leading advocates for women in sailing is Charlotte Hooijdonk, co-founder of the West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation. Charlotte has become an ambassador for women in the sailing community, inspiring countless individuals to follow their passion for the sea. In 2000, Charlotte made a bold decision to change her career path, leaving her management career behind to pursue a career in sailing. She earned her RYA Ocean Master certification and sailed professionally as a second officer on Tall Ships and Classic yachts in the USA, Australia, Europe, and the Caribbean.
Second Star Sailing launched the WOMEN AT THE HELM program
One of the WISH Foundation’s key collaborations is with Second Star Sailing www.secondstarsailing.com in Antigua, which launched the WOMEN AT THE HELM program. This program provides a supportive learning environment, with female instructors guiding and encouraging women to build their sailing skills. In addition to this, Second Star Sailing has developed an Apprenticeship Program, designed to help Antiguan women begin or further their careers in the blue economy. This initiative has already led to several Antiguan women joining the WISH Foundation’s race crew for the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta and becoming sail trainees in the GO to SEA program.
For more info about the WOMEN AT THE HELM PROGRAM go to the website
https://secondstarsailing.com/women-at-the-helm/
The power of teamwork
The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation is committed to achieving equal participation of male and female sailors in their sail training programs and race team. The WISH Foundation firmly believes in the power of teamwork and strives to create an environment that allows women to develop their individual strengths while also being strong team players. By participating in these programs, women not only learn the technical aspects of sailing but also gain valuable leadership and teamwork skills that will serve them in all areas of life.
Join us today and learn how to sail!
If you are between the ages of 13 and 23 and have ever dreamed of learning how to sail?
The West Indies Sail Heritage Foundation offers sail training every Saturday in Falmouth Harbour from 10 AM to 2 PM. The lessons take place aboard our traditional Carriacou sloop, “New Moon”, and are designed to teach young sailors in a fun and supportive environment.
For more information, please visit our website at www.caribwish.com/contact/ and complete the contact form, or contact Billy directly via WhatsApp at +1-268-7763484.