Saloon of Catamaran

Mike Browne in the saloon of purpose-built catamaran 'Impossible Dream'

Sailing is one of the few, if not the only, recreational or sporting activity where the entire family can fully participate with a loved one that has a disability.

The project

Why a 16 metre sailing catamaran?

A catamaran of this size has plenty of room for wheel chair access and maneuverability. When sailing, it remains almost level and gives a very safe and comfortable ride, able to safely handle the conditions of coastal sailing. The catamaran will be able to take groups of 20 people on day excursions and 8 on overnight trips, with only a nominal fee being charged. A qualified able-bodied crew will be on board at all times. Disabled people will be able to take full part in sailing the catamaran through adapted controls.

Activities will include

  • Cruising the Hauraki Gulf
  • Swimming
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Snorkelling
  • Riding on a sea biscuit behind the yacht’s inflatable tender

We have modeled this project on two successful disabled sailing programmes operating in the UK ‘Impossible Dream’ www.impossibledream.org.uk and The Disabled Sailing Association ‘Spirit of Scott Bader’ www.disabledsailing.org