Blueprints for Adventure: Expressions of Interest for CYCA Offshore Academy Yachts
by Cruising Yacht Club of Australia 30 Sep 2024 23:32 PDT
Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race © CYCA/Andrea Francolini
The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) has formed an 'Offshore Academy Working Group' (OAWG) to determine the feasibility of establishing an 'Offshore Sailing Academy' (OSA) at the CYCA.
As part of its studies, the OAWG is pleased to invite Expressions of Interest (EOI) for boat builders and distributors to submit their proposals to showcase their yachts at the Club's prospective OSA.
The OSA may also provide new and unique opportunities to partner with the Club and its activities and be part of Australia's leading blue water yacht club. The OAWG is interested discussing tailor-made partnership packages to new and existing sponsors interested in this new project.
EOIs submissions will be considered by the OAWG in their final recommendations to the CYCA Board in December.
This innovative program aims to foster a new generation of offshore sailors and enhance competitive sailing skills from beginners to advanced participants. The Club envisages the OSA will be open to Members and non-Members, targeting sailors between 25 - 50 years of age.
The OAWG is currently considering practical training on board yachts between 35 to 45 feet in length, specifically designed to compete in the Club's offshore sailing calendar. These yachts would be based at the CYCA, serving as a suitable training platform for diverse skill levels.
Vessels would ideally be of a modern, high performance design while being a safe and stable platform for the Academy, that delivers a comprehensive learning experience for all participants.
Key consideration for interested parties are as follows:
- Yachts between 35-45ft LOA
- Up to two yachts to be commissioned
- Yachts fully equipped for offshore racing and training
- Yachts designed to accommodate both novice sailors and advanced participants
- Yachts to meet World Sailing and Australian Sailing Category 2 stability and construction requirements
- Sustainable and innovative features are encouraged.
EOIs are to be submitted by Monday 21 October 2024. EOIs will be evaluated based on design, performance, safety features, cost, and overall suitability for the academy's objectives.EOIs are invited on the basis that the club is not obliged to proceed with the process nor accept any proposal.
Preferred providers will be invited to present their proposal to the OAWG towards the end of October.
For more information and to submit proposals, please contact Jordan Reece at Jordan.reece@cyca.com.au.