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FSMBC Supported Dinghy Sailing

Introduction

Membership includes free use of the club's sailing dinghies and we run supported sailing throughout the main sailing season May to September.

Supported sailing is for all ages and abilities, whether you are looking to try dinghy sailing for the first time or just want the reassurance of having a patrol boat on the water while you sail your own dinghy.

What To Expect

Sessions are generally about two hours and we sail in the vicinity of the clubhouse so it is possible to join or leave part way through. You choose what you want to do. The only constraints are that you comply with safety instructions, stick to the designated sailing area and share the boats as directed by the session leader.

We usually have enough volunteers to take complete beginners out for a sail and it will not be long before you can have a go on your own. We are not registered for official courses but can offer limited informal coaching (David, one of our session leaders, is an RYA senior instructor.)

When Is This?

Times are in the Club calendar with reminders in the Up The Creek newsletter. Timings vary because of our tidal constraints but we try to get afloat when there is a suitable tide on a Saturday or Sunday and some week nights when sunset is later than 2000. We try to operate around weekend bar and galley times for some aprés sail!

Booking And Cost

Booking is not essential although it is helpful for the session leader to know if you intend to attend, and you should sign on at each session to comply with our safety process. Please see contact details below,

There is no charge.

What Boats Can I Use?

Enterprise. Crewed boat with room for two to four people.

Pico. We have two Picos which can be rigged for singled-handed or crewed sailing.

Fareham Lugger. There are two club luggers.

Or sail your own boat!

What Do I Need To Bring?

Afloat

We will provide a buoyancy aid or you may prefer to use your own
Soft footwear with covered toes (e.g. old trainers)
Shorts or light trousers or track suit bottoms
Shirt (not cotton) and light fleece
Windproof top (e.g. cagoule)
Sun cream
If you wear glasses, please have a non-choking means to attach them
Optional waterproof trousers
Optional seasonal hat (with clothes peg and string to attach to clothing)

Ashore

Towel
Complete change of clothes
Bag to take wet gear home.

Wet Suit?

Wet suits are only recommended if you are planning on capsize drills or sailing in challenging conditions.

Top Tip

Assume that everything you take afloat will get wet. Accidental capsizes are rare, although there is a view that, for sailing dinghies, capsize is just another point of sailing!