Discover Sailing
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You don't need to be a member to have fun with out free discover sailing sessions. Just pick at date book and turn up!
Choose a date below and book for free!
FAQ's
What to wear
For a "Discover Sailing" session, your clothing should prioritize warmth, protection from wind and water. Because sailing is often colder, windier, and wetter than expected, you should dress in layers and avoid cotton, which holds moisture.
Here is a guide on what to wear for a beginner sailing session:
1. The Core Layers (Comfort & Warmth)
- Base Layer (Moisture-wicking): Synthetic or merino wool tops and leggings/trousers are best to keep you dry and warm.
- Mid-Layer (Insulation): A fleece or woollen jumper is ideal for trapping body heat.
- Outer Layer (Water/Windproof): A dedicated, breathable waterproof sailing jacket and trousers are best. If not available, a decent raincoat with a hood and waterproof trousers will work.
- Wetsuit (Optional but Recommended for Dinghies): If you are in a small boat (dinghy) where you might get wet, a 3mm or 4mm wetsuit is perfect.
2. Footwear
- Non-slip shoes: Wear old trainers with decent grip.
- Sailing Boots/Water Shoes: Neoprene boots are ideal for keeping feet warm and dry in colder weather.
- Avoid: Flip-flops or hard-soled boots that can damage the boat.
3. Accessories (Safety & Protection)
- Hat: A cap for summer (to block sun) or a woolly hat/beanie for colder days.
- Sunglasses: Polarized lenses are recommended to reduce glare from the water, preferably with a retainer strap.
- Gloves: Sailing gloves/Cycling gloves (fingerless or full) are helpful to protect against rope burn.
- Sunscreen: On sunny days essential, as the sun is more intense on the water.
4. What to Avoid
- Jeans: They are heavy, cold, and slow to dry when wet.
- Bulky clothing: Restricts your ability to move around the deck.
- Precious items: Only bring clothes you don't mind getting wet or dirty.
Summary Checklists:
- Summer Sailing: Shorts, quick-dry t-shirts, light fleece, light windproof jacket, cap, sunglasses, sunscreen.
- Cooler/Spring Sailing: Thermal base layers, fleece, waterproof jacket, leggings/waterproof trousers, beanie, gloves.
Note: For a first-time "discover" session, don't buy any gear, wear what you have and ask, we have spares of most items to lend out.
Related
- Discover Sailing (28 March, 14:00 - 17:00)
- Discover Sailing (18 April, 14:00 - 17:00)
- Discover Sailing (25 April, 14:00 - 17:00)
- Discover Sailing (Whole Day) (4 May, 10:00 - 17:00)