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Sea Sure 2025

Women in Boating: Women taking the helm at the Coral Sea Academy

by Coral Sea Marina Resort 20 Jul 2023 08:00 BST
Women in Boating © Coral Sea Marina Resort

With boating providing an unparalleled sense of empowerment, freedom and enjoyment, it is no wonder that we are seeing more and more women taking the helm and making the most of all that this lifestyle has to offer.

Coral Sea Marina, through its Coral Sea Academy, has been actively innovating ways in which to bring together women in the boating community to encourage safety on the water, increase skills and confidence and promote better boating practices.

Through the Coral Sea Academy's "Women In Boating" events, Coral Sea Marina aims to empower women to dip their toes into the boating world. The events held throughout the year provide an opportunity for women to increase their boating knowledge in an informal and comfortable environment. They also provide space in which to network with like-minded people and be inspired by other women who share a love of the water.

Recent events have included a movie night to celebrate International Women's Day and a networking evening led by passionate women in the boating industry, who shared their 'boating' stories with the attendees to inspire them to get out on the water.

Marlene Hicks, owner of TopNotch Fishing Charters and the creator of Billfish Babes spoke at the event and explains "The Women in Boating event provided me with both inspiration and motivation"

"It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with other women who share my passion for boating and the sea. I truly feel rejuvenated/reconnected with my love for our island lifestyle and fishing charter business too. Sometimes, stepping away from the routine and immersing ourselves in a supportive community can reignite our enthusiasm and remind us of what truly matters".

Looking to the future, there are numerous Women In Boating events on the horizon.

The next event on the calendar is a practical session, "Sail Training and Sunset Cruise", taking place on Saturday 19th August where women are invited to hop on board vessel Fika and under RYA Instructor Annette Hesselman's guidance, take to the water and experience practical advice and encouragement in a women-only environment. This event costs $50 per person and spaces are limited so book now to avoid disappointment.

Also in August, the marina will host "Hour of Power" on Tuesday 29th August, from 6pm at The Lookout Lounge, Coral Sea Marina. Brought to you by local business Shiift, this "Hour of Power" is a women's personal development session designed to identify, explore, & develop self-strengths, capabilities & discover untapped potential. This event is free for attendees and registration is via the Coral Sea Academy website.

As Coral Sea Marina's CEO, Kate Purdie, explains "Here at Coral Sea Marina, we believe everyone with a passion for boating should have the opportunity to become capable and confident on the water, and through the Coral Sea Academy we hope to play a role in inspiring women of all ages to do just that."

To register for either of these Women In Boating events contact or visit www.coralseaacademy.com.

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