Kidz at Sea on a Didi 26

The Kidz at Sea program in St Maarten was established to bring under-privileged children together to improve themselves and their chances in life. It does so by means of boatbuilding and sailing programs, that teach skills, teamwork and working toward common goals. The program, started and run by South African Garth Steyn, is producing great results and attracting considerable attention both locally and abroad.

Garth selected the Didi 26 for their first project, with the goal that the students would build the boat themselves, under supervision from adults, then race it in local sailing events. That first boat is now complete and was launched this week. They plan to sail in the Heineken Regatta, happening 3rd to 6th March, end of next week. Here are some photos from the build through to launch and first sail. They started with a plywood kit that we supplied from USA, CNC cut from Joubert okoume plywood.

Building stocks, ready for construction to start.

Hull structure completed, deck and interior soon to start.

Teamwork - muscle power in the absence of a crane to lift the boat.

Pouring the lead ballast bulb in a concrete mould.

Garth Steyn and the Kidz at Sea building team.

About to get wet.

First sail. Garth reported "balanced, plenty of power".

Happy crew sailing the boat that they built themselves.

We wish the Kidz at Sea the best of sailing in their first regatta, next week. Lots to do to prepare boat and crew before the racing starts.

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