TRY SAILING THIS MAY ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT

At Yarmouth SC in 2018.

Are there any Girlguiding members out there who would like to learn to sail? It might be just the opportunity to try something new for a challenge or to earn a badge.

If you’re on the lookout for something different to do, or you want some fresh air, some outdoor health and fitness, or a chance to meet new people get down to one of the four Isle of Wight sailing clubs that are hosting Try Sailing events this May and just have a go. The RYA’s Push the Boat Out campaign run by the Royal Yachting Association will see hundreds of clubs around the country take part, including several on the Island.

During May you can try sailing and windsurfing for free or for a very low cost (depending on the club but mostly free).
Each club will be holding one or more days when they open up their doors to welcome families and individuals of all abilities to come and experience the thrill of an outing on the water. They are:

Yarmouth Sailing Club 04 May
Brading Haven Yacht Club 4,5,6 May
Island Sailing Club 25 May
Royal Victoria Yacht Club 18 May

You can head to the  websites for each club to find contact information and details of the day’s itinerary for each.

Each Push The Boat Out event will provide all the equipment you need, just bring a change of clothes, sneakers and a towel. Sessions are a minimum of half an hour and can be longer, so ask your nearest club for full details. Clubs will have refreshments available.

RYA Programmes Manager, Michelle Gent commented: “We are delighted that for the second year running, Push the Boat Out will be returning for the whole of May. Open days are a fantastic day out for the whole family and a brilliant opportunity to have a go at some on-the-water activity. Many venues will also be organising tea, cake and barbeques so it’s a real opportunity to appreciate the club hospitality and get stuck in.Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned sailor looking for a way back in, there will be something for everyone – find out what’s going on in your local area and get involved.”

Last year a whopping 39,000 people ‘pushed the boat out’ at over 500 sailing and windsurfing taster sessions throughout the UK.