Young sailors wishing to attend this year's National Sailing Programme (NSP) will have their chances greatly diminished with Government cutting funding, thus cancelling half of the spots available.

The summer programme that teaches young Bermudians how to sail, often for the first time, will also have fees jump to $400 for the half-day programme for the three weeks it runs – a 70 percent increase from last year.

This will leave a shortfall with the Bermuda Sailing Association (BSA) hoping that funds may come in from the private sector.

In addition, BSA hopes that it may be able to find some more funding from the private sector so that it is able to offer scholarships to those children who need extra financial support.

Deb Sullivan Gravelle, programme director of the BSA, said: "It is regrettable that we have to curtail our programme and increase our fees this year.

"However, with significantly less funding we don't have many options.

"We are in discussions with a number of companies and organisations about supporting the programme and we hope this funding will come through."

The NSP was established as a Government programme that helped many Bermudians learn to sail by providing instruction at a cost lower than could be found at the private sailing clubs.

Sailing is part of Bermuda's heritage and thousands of Bermudians have been through the programme.

The BSA is the governing body for the sport of sailing in Bermuda and is recognised by the Bermuda Government and the International Sailing Federation.

It was formed more than 30 years ago by the sailing clubs of the island, the racing classes and individuals who participate in sailing activities.

Parents who are interested in signing up their children for the 2009 National Sailing Programme can obtain registration forms online at www.bermudasail.bm and from the BSA office in the Walker Arcade on the balcony level on Saturday, April 11 and 18.

Completed forms and payment can be dropped off on these two dates at the BSA office.

Any company that is interested in providing scholarships to help young Bermudians learn to sail should contact Deb Sullivan Gravelle on 295-7935 or email info@bermudasail.bm.