The Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project (SVSP) is proud to present a unique sponsorship opportunity to fund the commissioning of a dedicated Sail Training Vessel. This vessel will serve as a highly inclusive "flagship" for our veterans' sailing community, similar to the Navy's Young Endeavour and its associated Youth Training Cruises. It will also act as a powerful promotional platform for future sponsors, providing valuable visibility and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the vessel and its mission.

Why We Need This Vessel

1. Limited Access to Vessels

Currently, SVSP relies on rented or borrowed boats, which are often unavailable during peak periods, limiting our ability to run consistent programs. A dedicated training vessel will resolve this issue, allowing us to deliver year-round sailing courses and events for veterans and their families.

2. Enhanced Training Capacity

Owning this vessel will enable us to offer sailing courses, certifications, and hands-on training, empowering veterans with valuable skills and qualifications. This vessel will become a hub for training and skill-building, much like a "Men’s Shed", where veterans can gather, share experiences, and contribute to the operation and maintenance of the vessel.

3. Building Social Connections

The vessel will foster camaraderie and teamwork, providing a stable platform for group activities, regional regattas, and community engagement. By creating opportunities for veterans to work together, we will help form lasting bonds and reduce social isolation.

Budget & Operational Costs

A Beneteau First 40, priced at $250,000, is a highly capable vessel that can serve both as a training platform and as a vessel for offshore events. Annual operational costs include:

• Maintenance: $10,000
• Antifouling: $4,000
• Engine Service: $2,000
• Sail Maintenance: $5,000
• Storage/Mooring: $8,000
• Insurance: $6,000

We are committed to securing the best available vessel within this budget to ensure long-term success and the sustainability of the project.

Lessons Learned: The “Birubi” Project

In December 2023, SVSP Newcastle member Peter Manbridge acquired the Top Hat 25, Birubi. While it has been invaluable in introducing veterans to local sailing, its limited capacity has highlighted the need for a larger, more versatile vessel capable of training and ocean transiting.

Ideal Vessel Specifications

• Length: 35–40 feet
• Cockpit Capacity: 10–12 crew
• Cabin: Basic amenities (toilet, bunks)
• Ocean Capability: Able to transit between locations
• Safety Standards: Category 5 Night AS Safety Standards

How Your Support Will Make a Difference

By sponsoring this Sail Training Vessel, your organisation will help deliver:

• Life-changing experiences for veterans and their families
• Opportunities for skill-building and advanced sailing certifications
• A broader regional impact, strengthening connections across Sydney, Jervis Bay, Newcastle, and Gosford

This vessel will expand training opportunities, while also creating a central hub for veterans to connect, volunteer, and give back to the community. By supporting this project, you will be investing in the sustainability of this initiative, ensuring it can continue making a transformative difference in the lives of our veterans for years to come.

Get Involved

We would be delighted to explore how your organisation can support the commissioning of this flagship Sail Training Vessel. Please feel free to reach out to discuss this exciting opportunity at your convenience.

Thank you for considering the chance to make a lasting impact in the lives of veterans and their families.

A Few Media Clips from Recent Activities

• Impact of Your Support: Watch Now
• NRMA - Calmer Waters: Read More
• Veterans Health Week - Z Special Unit: Watch Now