The Doublehanded Sailing Association

General Information

The Doublehanded Sailing Association was formed in 1987 with the purpose of serving those who enjoy making fast, safe passages, under sail, with minimum crew. It is the intention of the Association to encourage the development of personal skills, suitable equipment, techniques and vessels for the purpose of shorthanded sailing. This is accomplished through personal exchange of information between its members and the various sailing events hosted by the DSA.

The DSA sponsors its premier event, the Huron Doublehanded Challenge, in late June or early July. Both mono-hulled and multi-hulled boats leave from Sarnia, Ontario or Bay City, Michigan within well matched divisions. There is much camaraderie and communication between boats during the long
days and nights as two person crews head for the finish line at Rogers City, Michigan.

All who complete the Challenge receive Participation Awards. Terrific flags and awards are presented for finish position and other major achievements at the Monday night Awards dinner. Preparation and participation in the Huron Doublehanded Challenge is a great way for couples to build cruising skills
and get their boats to a great jumping off point for North Channel cruising.

Other double handed events held by the DSA are the Spring Regatta and the fall Lake St. Clair Doublehanded Championship. The double handed starts in the DRYA point- to- point regattas are attributed to the DSA's intent to establish competitive racing venues for skippers who want or need to eliminate the complexities of organizing, caring and feeding of full crews.

The Doublehanded Sailing Association and the Great Lakes Singlehanded Society co-host a Spring Safety Seminar with guest speakers and exhibitors. In the past we have had speakers such as Robin Davies (BOC world race participant) and Dr. Tony Hammer (Royal Navy expert on hypothermia). We have had exhibitors such as Image Yachts, TheYachtsman.Com, Thomas Hardware and West Marine.

The DSA is focused on participation, fun and learning so it may just be the perfect companion organization to your yacht club membership or your first entry into sailing organizations.
 

Frequently Asked Questions
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