Accessible Sailing

Accessible sailing is about more than disability - there are significant numbers of people who, as a result of age or personal circumstances are no longer able to sail but would love to get on the water.  In recent years, experts have recognised spending time around bodies of water, known as blue spaces, as a therapeutic practice for both physical and mental well-being. Having access to such spaces is vitally important to millions across the country, with many turning to blue spaces such as their local swimming pool, or the nearest natural body of water, to help feel relaxed and soothed from the stresses of everyday life.  In addition sailing helps with Muscle strength and endurance, Cardiovascular fitness, Mental wellness, Lowers stress levels, Increases agility, Improves concentration, Improves communication skills and spatial awareness.

We have set up our accessible sailing programme following approaches from a number of individual and as a result of our work with Churchill Park Complex Needs School.  Our site, due to its topography, can never be fully compliant with access requirements but we have taken steps to mitigate this factors as much as we can.  Wheelchair access is possible to the floating pontoon and we have a hoist installed to transfer individuals to our boats.   We currently have interest from groups including Vision Norfolk, Headway, Parkinsons UK, The Stroke Association, KIngs Lynn MND group, The MS Society among others.  All those wishing to can train to RYA Level 2and become independent sailors.

We have the facilities to accommodate individuals who are able to manage e.g. steering and sails themselves and also those who would simply like to spend time on the water.

All our volunteers are DBS checked and have undergone disability awareness training, many are hoist trained and all clients are accompanied on the water by competent helms.  There will always be a qualified RYA Senior Instructor on site and a  powered support boat on the water when we are sailing.

For family and carers accompanying clients we will be operating a cafe in the clubhouse and there is a viewing area at the lakeside.

The sessions will run between April and October on Friday afternoons between 13.00 and 17.00hrs, weather permitting, and need to be booked in advance.

1 hour slots can be booked as an individual and groups of 6 to 10 people can book 2 hour slots.

All buoyancy aids and other specialist items as available will be provided.  Clients should not get wet when on the water (rain excepted) and should be dressed appropriately for the weather.

We have to make charges to cover running costs.  These are currently set at £12 per hour for an individual booking and £12 per person for a 2 hour group booking for up to 10 people.  Currently we can have 2 people on the water in Hansa Dinghies and up to 4 people on the water in Wayfarer dinghies.  We hope to add to our Hansa fleet in the near future.

Booking can be made via this page of the website or by telephone once the system is live.

Any questions contact Adrian Tebbutt on 07530 046139.

Last updated 16:38 on 14 January 2025