For nearly two decades, SailTime Australia has been — purposefully and confidently— reshaping the way Australians access life on the water. As the business marks 17 years of continuous operation, the milestone stands as a testament to vision, resilience, and a deep belief that sailing and boating should be accessible to more people than traditional ownership has ever allowed.
Founded in 2009, long before the “shared economy” became part of everyday language in Australia, SailTime Australia emerged with a model that was both simple and radical: premium boats, shared access, professional management, and a strong sense of community. Seventeen years later, that model has not only endured—it has flourished.
A Lifestyle Business Born from a Late-in-Life Passion
For co-founders, Graham Raspass and his wife Angela, SailTime Australia began as both a professional pivot and a personal journey. After a successful 17-year corporate career with News Corporation in the UK, Graham made the bold decision to change course—seeking a lifestyle business that would combine his marketing and business expertise with a growing passion for sailing.
“I took up sailing later in life,” Graham explains, “and I was looking for something that would keep me engaged with the marine industry, while also allowing my wife Angela and I to apply our business experience. When I discovered SailTime’s shared boating membership program, it immediately stood out as the perfect fit for us.”
At the time, there was no equivalent shared boating concept operating in Australia. What appealed most was not just the business opportunity, but the idea of opening access to the water to people who, like Graham himself, had once believed sailing was out of reach.
Launching Before the ‘Shared Economy’ Had a Name
When SailTime Australia launched its first base on Pittwater in April 2009, the idea of fractional access to boats was unfamiliar to the local market. There were no templates to follow, no comparable programs to point to, and strict operational requirements that demanded innovation at every step.
In order to operate, SailTime Australia had to pioneer new approaches to vessel usage, safety compliance, and survey standards—effectively helping to define how shared boating could function responsibly within Australian regulations. These early challenges shaped a culture of adaptability that would become one of the business’s greatest strengths.
Seventeen years on, SailTime Australia is widely regarded as a trusted and established presence in the boating community, having proven that shared access is not a passing trend, but a sustainable and highly relevant solution.
Opening the Water to Families, First-Timers, and Adventurers
What continues to excite Graham most is seeing how SailTime changes people’s perceptions of what’s possible.
“Introducing families to boating and sailing on a luxury yacht they previously thought was outside their reach is incredibly rewarding,” he says. “From relaxed day sails to family adventures and Twilight racing, these experiences create memories that last.”
Across its bases in Sydney Harbour, Middle Harbour, Pittwater, and Port Stephens, SailTime Australia has introduced thousands of members to pristine waterways, hidden bays, and iconic landmarks—often for the very first time. Sailing past the Sydney Opera House, under the Harbour Bridge, or into quiet coves has become a defining part of the SailTime Australia experience.
‘From First Sailing Lesson to Offshore Racing
Graham’s own sailing journey reflects the opportunity SailTime offers its members. Having taken his first sailing lesson in his late 40s, he quickly became immersed in the sport, progressing from casual sailing to competitive offshore racing.
“SailTime opened the door to a whole new world for me,” he says. “That included crewing in the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, the Sydney to Lord Howe Ocean Races, and many others.”
These experiences now inform the way SailTime Australia supports its members—encouraging skill development, confidence, and progression at every level.
Racing, Skills, and a Strong Sense of Community
Racing is a cornerstone of SailTime Australia’s culture. For six months of the year, members have the opportunity to participate in weekly Twilight racing across Sydney Harbour, Middle Harbour, and Pittwater. In addition, members and boat owners regularly compete in local regattas throughout the year.
Beyond racing, SailTime Australia places strong emphasis on education and training. As an RYA-affiliated sailing school, the base offers a full range of courses—from Introduction to Sailing through to Competent Crew, Day Skipper, Yachtmaster preparation, and shore-based theory. Public courses are also available, welcoming newcomers into the sailing community.
Equally important is the social connection that forms around the marinas. Operating from active yacht clubs, SailTime Australia benefits from vibrant sailing hubs where members gather before and after races, share meals, celebrate wins, and build friendships that extend well beyond the dock.
Resilience Through Industry and Global Challenges
Seventeen years on the water have not been without obstacles. From navigating uncharted regulatory territory in the early days to managing the operational complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic, SailTime Australia has repeatedly demonstrated resilience.
During lockdowns and travel restrictions, some members were unable to access their designated boats. In response, the team worked quickly to create alternative arrangements so families could continue to enjoy time on the water—an activity that became especially meaningful during a challenging period. Cleaning and maintenance teams were rapidly reconfigured to comply with local council restrictions, ensuring safety without compromising service.
A Fleet Designed for Real-World Boating
SailTime Australia’s fleet reflects careful consideration of local waterways and member needs. Predominantly comprised of 35–40 foot monohull sailing yachts with practical three-cabin layouts, the fleet offers comfort, performance, and ease of handling. A 35-foot Swift Trawler powerboat expands options for cruising and family outings, with plans underway to grow both the sail and power offerings.
“These boats are big enough to be social and comfortable, yet perfectly suited for manoeuvring in and out of marinas,” Graham notes.
Looking Ahead: The Road Toward Two Decades
As SailTime Australia approaches its 20-year horizon, the focus remains firmly on the future. Plans are in place to expand the fleet across existing bases and identify two potential new locations for growth.
“It’s been a wonderful 15-plus years for Angela, our kids, and me,” Graham reflects. “SailTime has created extraordinary opportunities for us personally and professionally. We believe the membership model is even more relevant today than when we launched—it remains the affordable way to sail, and a truly special way to share time on the water.”
Seventeen years strong, SailTime Australia stands not just as a pioneer, but as an institution—still opening the water to those ready to step aboard.
