ISSA Participates in Key Global Dialogue at 2025 World Yachting Summit

From April 15–17, the International Sailing Schools Association (ISSA) made its debut appearance at the World Yachting Summit 2025 in Monaco. This milestone marks an exciting opportunity for ISSA to present its leadership and expertise on an international stage, as it continues to grow its presence in one of the world’s most dynamic and influential yachting markets.

ISSA President Mr. Tomasz Lipski delivered a keynote presentation introducing the organization’s mission and expanding on its global initiatives. His speech highlighted several key themes:

• Maritime Education and Safety: ISSA schools educate approximately 20,000 students each year, introducing newcomers to sailing while enhancing global maritime safety. As the industry grows, ISSA’s role in harmonizing and standardizing sailing practices is increasingly vital to improving safety and enabling international job mobility.
• Youth Engagement and Development: Sailing offers young people, especially in developed countries, a meaningful alternative to digital immersion. It cultivates skills such as risk management, responsibility, and environmental awareness. In Asia, it also serves as a gateway to global environmental issues, including ocean pollution.
• Sustainability and Eco-conscious Tourism: Sailing stands out as an environmentally friendly sport that fosters a deep connection to nature. As interest in sustainable tourism grows, sailing presents a compelling model for responsible travel and ecological stewardship.
• Inclusive Training Project: Mr. Lipski introduced the Sailing Instructors for People with Disabilities (SIPD) program, launched at Boot Düsseldorf 2024. The initiative trains instructors to make sailing accessible to people with disabilities, reinforcing ISSA’s commitment to inclusivity within the sport.
• Ongoing Global Projects: ISSA continues to collaborate with institutions like the World Maritime University and spearheads initiatives such as international sailing festivals, sailing camps for youth, and the production of educational materials. The ISSA remains focused on expanding SIPD resources and promoting access to sailing worldwide.

Through its participation in the World Yachting Summit 2025, ISSA reinforced its commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability in sailing education, while building valuable connections across the global yachting community.