May 22, 2026
2 minutes reading time
Charting a New Course: Sailability Wellington launches game-changing ‘ParAble-Whakatauki’ Class
From a spark of an idea on the dock at Seaview Marina to a fleet nearly ready to sail, Sailability Wellington is writing the next chapter in inclusive sailing – and it’s a bold one.
Introducing the ParAble-Whakatauki: a brand-new, purpose-built yacht designed by and for sailors with disabilities. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Don Manning QSM, and supported by a mighty crew of volunteers, designers, and supporters, this radical new class is the result of over a decade of passion, trial, and innovation.
The need was clear. While the Hansa 303 has long been the workhorse of adaptive sailing in New Zealand, its limitations in payload and flexibility left many sailors yearning for more. Enter the ParAble—designed to carry up to 240kg, stable and self-righting, and capable of being launched without cranes. It’s accessible, adaptable, and seriously fun – suitable for beginners, families, and serious racers alike.
This isn’t a yacht built in isolation. It was handcrafted from the ground up with input from sailors, riggers, designers, and even the sailors themselves. The prototype began as a Western Red Cedar build led by Don himself, and thanks to generous support from organisations like Carboglass, Tory Chanel Contractors, Mackay Boats, and the creative minds of Kevin Cudby and Bruce Askew, the dream has taken real shape – six shapes, in fact, with six yachts set for delivery by September 2025.
Once the six boats are complete, the ParAble-Whakatauki will be registered as a National Class with Yachting New Zealand – with an eye firmly on international recognition from World Sailing.
More than just boats, the ParAble represents Sailability Wellington’s spirit: inclusive, collaborative, and always forward-moving. With over 200 sailors and 70+ volunteers across three bases, they sail six days a week and don’t just talk inclusion – they live it.
This is more than a new class of yacht. It’s a class act in how community, ingenuity, and determination can transform sailing for the better.
Want to Know More?
Visit www.sailability-wellington.org.nz to learn more, support the project, or connect with the team.