Sailability Tauranga blessed their new pontoon and boat at the Tauranga Yacht Club on Wednesday afternoon.

Club Captain Rhonda Ritchie says it has taken two years to build and install the pontoons into the arena and she is very grateful for the donations made.

“Funding was generously donated by the Tauranga City Council at the beginning, but it’s been a big project to get up and running.

“Also to TECT, Tauranga Rotary and One Foundation to build our fourth Hansa 303 to join our fleet of six.”

Rhonda says Sailability enables all people to get involved in sailing.

“It’s an opportunity to get out on the harbour, whether they just want to go for a sail and just enjoy being out there on the harbour free from their wheelchairs, free from the restrictions in their lives.

“It’s a wonderful sense of freedom out there on the water.”

Sailability Sailor Christina Jessup says being on the water is what makes her feel free.

“I cannot drive a car but I can drive one of these.

“I am privileged I have the opportunity to use them.”