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Sail Our Way Case Study: ORCV KISS Sailing Program 2026
Club: Ocean Racing Club of Victoria (ORCV)
Location: Melbourne, VIC
Contact: Annabel O'Connor / ORCV Office | orcv@orcv.org.au
About the project
The Ocean Racing Club of Victoria (ORCV) delivered its 2026 KISS (Keelboat Introduction to Sailing Savvy) program to support women in developing confidence, skills, and connections within offshore and keelboat sailing.
The KISS program provides a structured mentoring and participation pathway, connecting women with experienced boat owners, mentors, and the wider sailing community over a four-month program. The initiative is designed to create welcoming and supportive opportunities for women to build confidence, develop practical sailing experience, and strengthen long-term participation in the sport.
The 2026 program commenced with an in-person launch event held at Royal Brighton Yacht Club on 15 April 2026, bringing together participants, mentors, committee members, and guest speakers ahead of the program delivery. Presentations from previous KISS participants helped introduce women to the opportunities, pathways, and community connections available through offshore sailing.
Participation
- 35 KISS participants
- 10 boat owners and mentors
- 10 KISS committee members involved in delivery and support
Outcomes and impact
The KISS program delivered strong early outcomes in supporting women’s participation and inclusion in offshore sailing:
- Connection and inclusion: Participants were introduced to mentors, boat owners, and committee members, helping them feel welcomed and supported within the KISS program and broader sailing community.
- • Skills development: The program provides women with opportunities to build confidence, practical sailing knowledge, and experience within keelboat and offshore sailing environments.
- Pathway development: The program highlighted opportunities for women to progress within keelboat and offshore sailing.
- Increased accessibility: The program supported participation from rural and regional women who may otherwise face barriers attending in-person sailing opportunities.
How the funding helped
The Sail Our Way grant helped subsidise travel costs for rural and regional participants, supporting greater accessibility and inclusion within the program. This funding helped ensure more women could attend in-person KISS activities and participate fully in the sailing community.
Kiela II KISS team photo
Boat and personal preparation session, photo by C.Allen
Launch event, photo by KISS media