Sonata Yacht Association

Sonata Yacht Association of Victoria (Inc.)

The Sonata Yacht Association of Victoria (SYAV) was formed in 1978 and incorporated under the Associations Act in 1986. It’s financial year is 1 May to 30 April.

In 2020 the business name ‘Sonata Yacht Association’ (SYA) was adopted to reflect the fact that association membership is not limited to Victorian Sonata owners and in fact people from other states are very welcome.

Statement of Purpose

 1.  Act as the co-ordinating body for all SONATA yacht owners in Australia.
 2.  Maintain affiliation with Australian Sailing.
 3.  Liaise with public and private organisations in the marine and boating industry.
 4.  Assist members with the purchase and sale of SONATA yachts.
 5.  Keep members informed via meetings and newsletters.
 6.  Conduct a program of racing, cruising and social events.
 7.  Maintain class rules.
 8.  Promote sailing as a safe family activity and assist newcomers with acquiring sailing skills.

Since 1978 the SYA has operated successfully as a strong association with a large percentage of Victorian Sonata owners and many interstate members. SYA has affiliation with the peak yachting body, Australian Sailing, which represents the interests of all sailing associations and yacht clubs in Australia.

SYA caters for all SONATA yacht types plus those yachts with a ‘Sonata’ hull shape ie Southern Cross 23 and Northwind 7 yachts.

When it comes to buying or selling a yacht the backing of a strong association is invaluable. Our technical knowledge and expertise of Sonata’s will benefit either party. We also have access to an excellent yacht insurance arrangement which provides preferential rates for members.

Our association is run by a committee comprising a President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Membership Officer, Cruising, Racing, Technical and Social committees, newsletter and web-site editors.

The committee meets regularly and may be contacted via the President or Secretary. See the SYA Contacts page.

Newsletter – the Associations newsletter, Sonata Notes, is emailed to members 10 times a year.

Racing – For those interested in racing the Association organises an annual class championship over a weekend – typically around the 3rd week in February each year. Please see newsletter for details.

Cruising – There is an extensive cruising program prepared at the beginning of each season covering many attractive venues around Victoria and interstate for longer holidays which is published in the newsletter.

Technical Support – Within our Association there is an extensive body of knowledge that may be called upon. The Association has a range of equipment available to members including a boat-cradle lifting hoist that enables the hull underside and trailer to be easily accessed.

MEMBERSHIP is open to all owners of Sonata yachts.  The membership year starts 1st July.  You may download an application form from the Public Documents page.