18 Foot Skiffs

	18 Footer "Synergy"

Carrying over 1200 sq feet of sail power, the high performance 18-footer is recognised as the "formula-one" of sailing. It is the apex predator of sailing with nothing in its like harder or faster. It is recognised world wide. And it’s right here at the Sydney Flying Squadron.

Today the 18 footers need hard working, dedicated and highly skilled sailors to keep them afloat and fast. To win in today’s arena takes something extra special.

The 18 footers race over two forms of event. Long harbour races optimise the use of the crowded Sydney Harbour environment, and localised short races focus on in close spectator viewing and commercial ferry participation.

The 18ft Skiffs were born in the 19th century to satisfy a need for a boat which was in the means of the “average man” and would provide good competitive racing to attract public interest.

	18 Footers "Frame" & "Computer Associates"

The sport has always been structured and administered with the public in mind. Today racing is held on one of the busiest waterways of the world, in view of admiring spectators on ferries, pleasure craft and vantage points on headlands and other landmarks.

The first world championships were held in Sydney in 1938 with teams from New Zealand, New South Wales and Queensland all competing.

The United States of America started competing regularly from 1971, and was quickly followed by the United Kingdom in 1975.

Over the past 15 years the sport has exploded with teams coming from France, Japan, Italy, South Africa, Sweden, Holland and Canada.

We are always on the lookout for new sailors wishing to join our sailing program, anyone interested should get in contact with Sydney Flying Squadron by completing our crew enquiry form.