Accessibility
Sailing is a fantastic, inclusive sport. It enables people with even the most severe disabilities to sail as equals, enjoying the sport either sailing independently, as part of a family, or with friends.
Whitefriars Sailing Club are welcoming and try to accommodate challenges where possible. Where your needs are complex, we can work with you to see if you and your support network can find a way to enable your sailing goals as part of the club. We also have a thriving Sailability group who meet on Wednesday and Thursday from April through October 10am to 4pm. Here there are experienced volunteers, knowledgeable sailors who have overcome similar challenges, and access to a much wider range of equipment that can accommodate most needs; even controlling the boat using blow-suck controls.
Membership
As a member of Whitefriars Sailing Club, you may access Sailability services at no additional cost, although you must register with Sailability@Whitefriars. Alternatively, if you are limited to sailing at Sailability sessions, there is a reduced fee.
Sailability
Sailability caters for a wide range of physical, sensory, learning and mental health needs. They facilitate therapeutic sailing, enjoying cruising in the club’s beautiful surroundings, teaching and developing sailing skills, and provide a pathway to racing at the club, or further afield. Several of our sailors compete in events internationally.
The group pride themselves on being a lot of fun, and the volunteers find their efforts extremely rewarding. There are many ways that you could help, either on or off the water Volunteer here
Training
The club has a training section who frequently run courses for members and for people outside of the club. Depending on your needs, it may be possible to adapt the course, or to hire some of our specialist equipment. Talk to our Training team
Supported Sailing
During the season our instructors organise Supported Sailing sessions. These are aimed at people who lack confidence in rigging and sailing. See the calendar for dates. Boat hire is also available Hire Boat Information.
Juniors
The club boasts a thriving Junior group, and they have experience of accommodating certain additional needs. Juniors Information
Women on the Water
Similarly, there is a group called Women on the Water, who have gone to great lengths to accommodate the needs of ladies who have additional challenges. WoW Information.
Racing
Many sailors like to pit their skills against others. There are races throughout the year most Sundays, and on Wednesday evenings from March through to September. Using the PY handicapping system for classifying boats means that everybody can take part on level terms. Take a look at our calendar.
Model Boats
If you’re more comfortable staying on dry land, there is a radio-controlled boat group who also meet regularly at the club throughout the year. They stage races using several different models. RC Group
Boat Hire
Some of the Hansa boats are available for hire, although the person who is hiring must have demonstrated competency at or above RYA level 2. Hire Boat Information