The CYCA crewing program has been developed to assist people to connect with yacht owners and start crewing. This program is available for both individuals new to our sport and for experienced sailors.
How do I start Crewing?
There are two ways to engage with the CYCA crewing program:
- You can contact the CYCA Sailing Office on 02 8292 7800 and the team will endeavor to find you a place on a yacht.
- Come down to the Club on race days – we recommend 2 hours before the start on Wednesdays in Summer and Sundays in Winter. Information on the Club’s series can be found here. Once at the Club you can approach skippers directly, approach Sailing Office staff or alternatively approach the Sailing Concierge.
The Sailing Concierge can be found on the hardstand and runs each Wednesday evening throughout Summer for the Wednesday Twilights and each Sunday morning throughout Winter for the CYCA Winter Series. The Concierge will be able to direct sailors to boats looking for crew, introduce them to the owner and be able to answer any questions regarding the series a crew member may have.
We welcome all sailors, whether new or experienced and look forward to you joining us at the CYCA.
If you are interested in the Concierge Program, please complete this form and our Sailing Office will be in touch with you.
What about Crewing Offshore and Regularly?
How do I find a yacht to sail on or find crew for my yacht?
Mysail.team provides a general availability option for use by both crew and owners who can post a notice looking for casual or regular crew across the CYCA sailing programs, as well as delivery crew opportunities.
For more information head to Mysail.team to signup and explore what is available.
Crew registered on MySail.team looking for yachts:
Yachts registered on MySail.team looking for crew:
I want to compete in the Rolex Sydney Hobart or overnight races, what opportunities are there for me?
To be invited to crew in the Blue Water Pointscore races you will normally need to have had some offshore racing experience such as the Short Ocean or Ocean Pointscore, and your chances will be enhanced if you have some or all of the following: Cat 1 or Cat 2 Offshore experience or significant delivery passages; Australian Sailing Safety and Sea Survival Certification, current Senior / Apply First Aid qualifications, and Radio Certification such as the MROCP.
Your availability to participate in the Blue Water Pointscore Series (overnight distance races around 80-180nm) will often enhance your chances of gaining a position on a crew in the major yacht races.
Opportunities available for International crew are often limited as many yachts decide on crew well ahead of time and train regularly, however having your details on file at the CYCA will certainly improve your chances.
The CYCA Sailing Office can not guarantee you a place on a yacht and does not guarantee that crew invitations will be available at regular intervals.
