Use of the Water
Advice for members who prefer to engage in free sailing or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) outside of the official club opening hours. The information summarises key aspects of our Club Rules and Handbook. Please consult these documents directly for additional information.
The Club has an open water policy, which means that access and sailing is permitted at any time between 10.00 am and dusk throughout the year. There is a 'log book' on a shelf by the club lounge fire door. Please use this to record your arrival and departure.
Clubhouse and Facilities
While the main clubhouse and associated buildings remain closed outside of programmed times, members can utilise the designated 'out of hours' changing room. This facility includes a toilet and features a secure keypad entrance. New members will be shown how to access this area during their induction tour. Please be aware that, due to the isolated nature of this building, the water supply to the sink and toilet is turned off from approximately December to March.
Tuesday Evening Free Sailing
The clubhouse will be open for approx 8 'Tuesday Taster Sessions' during 2026. The dates are in the club Google calendar. The club will be open with a rescue boat on the water, club boats are available for hire. Members are encouraged to arrive and sail as early as possible, as late arrivals after 19:00 may cause inconvenience to the duty crew.
Boat Hire and Insurance Requirements
Club hire boats are only available when sailing is part of a programmed event, as indicated on the Club’s Google Calendar, and when a rescue boat is manned. This requirement forms part of the Club’s insurance policy.
It is important to note that water-based training courses with a rescue boat do not count as programmed sailing events; there is no duty crew present in these cases. Members may free sail in their own boats during such times, but should not expect rescue cover.
Safety Guidelines for Sailing
According to Club rules, members may sail at any time, provided they are confident in their sailing abilities and have considered the prevailing weather conditions. For safety reasons, it is strongly recommended that members never sail or use a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) alone, regardless of experience. If there is someone on shore, members should brief them on potential risk scenarios. Please be aware that outside of programmed events, there is no access to telephones, showers, buoyancy aids, first aid kits, or a rescue boat.
Informal SUP Gatherings
During the summer months, there is an informal arrangement for SUP enthusiasts to meet on Friday evenings, which is usually publicised on the Club’s Facebook pages. These gatherings sometimes conclude with a barbecue. Please note, there is no official organiser or set timetable for these events.
On rare occasions, such as during busy Open Meetings, members may be asked not to attend the Club for free sailing. These dates are clearly marked as 'no free sailing' on the calendar and currently apply to the Laser, British Moth, and Ice Tankard Open Meetings.
