"opportunity, accessibility, independence"

Our Fleet

DSA-Alberta's fleet of six Martin 16's, four access dinghies and two Sonar Keelboats are specifically designed and equipped to account for the varying physical abilities of our sailors.

The Sonar

Our first Sonar was purchased in 2000 with the generous support of Parks Foundation Calgary and the Calgary Community Lottery Board. In 2008, the DSA-A was able to purchase a second Sonar. The Sonars are 23’ roomy and safe day sailors that are ideal for our Community Partner program. As well, the Sonar class is used in Paralympic competition and is available for Wednesday Night Racing.

DSA-Alberta will rent the Blue Sonar to members of the general public possessing a minimum Bronze IV certification.

Sonar Features:

  • A 7m (23ft) keel boat designed to hold 5-6 people
  • Hull weight of 950 kg (2,100 pounds)
  • Ballast of 408 kg, Prevents capsize
  • Requires a crew to adjust jib sail
  • Popular boat used in the Paralympics


The Martin 16

DSA-Alberta is the proud owner of a fleet of six Martin 16s. The Martin 16 sloop was specifically designed for sailors with mobility impairments. From a forward-facing sitting position, the sailor has complete control of the boat. All controls can be automated to assist any degree of disability.

Martin 16s are not availabe to the general public.

Martin 16 Features:

  • The Autohelm/Windlass System which allows sailors with high level quadriplegia to sail independently through a sip and puff control interface.
  • Ergonomic, adjustable seating.
  • Rudder and sail controls directly at hand.
  • 150 kg lead bulb attached to the keel makes the Martin 16 impossible to capsize.
  • 1100 Pounds of positive flotation makes the Martin 16 safe, even if the hull is full of water.
  • A second seat for a sailing instructor or friend.


The Access Dinghy

In recent years, DSA-Alberta received funding for Access Dinghies from a the Community Initiatives Program and from the Parks Foundation. The Access Dinghy is a lightweight boat that can be launched from shore. They are used for our Outreach Programs and for lessons for children and youth.

The Disabled Sailing Association of Alberta owns four Access Dinghies and utilizes these in our lesson and outreach programs. This craft has a sling seat for comfortable side by side seating for two. The dinghy is stabilized with a 32 kg (70 lb) lead plus water filled drop centreboard.

DSA-Alberta will rent these boats to members of the general public possessing a minimum White-Sail III certification.

 

Access Dinghy Features:

  • Ballasted Centre Board, Ensures stability
  • Hull Design is concave in provide greater stability
  • Roller Reefing System, Fine adjustments to the sail
  • Seats two side by side
  


The 2.4

In cooperation with the Alberta Sailing Association, two 2.4s are sometimes available for the more capable sailor.

DSA-Alberta will, depending on availability, have access to these boats for race training and Wednesday Night Racing.