FAQs

General Membership

What does it cost to charter a boat for a weekend

On club organised chartered boats, it’s usually around £300-400 for a weekend of sailing, however this can fluctuate, depending on how many berths are filled. These are often with either instructors on board as skippers, or experienced club skippers who have a Day Skipper licence.

How do I join, and what does membership include?

Simply click this LINK and complete the online application form. Once your membership has been approved you will get full access to the Members section of our website where you can register for our events. You’ll also be able to join our WhatsApp community and will receive monthly updates about our events and news. Membership also includes discounts at our affiliated partners.

I've never sailed before – is the club suitable for beginners?

Yes, anyone can join and come sailing. It's a friendly sport that suits all ages and levels. We also offer discounts at affiliated LGBTQ+-friendly training centres who can train you from never having been on a boat, through to Competent Crew level, all the way to becoming a skipper or beyond. With a simple framework and plan, we can help you reach your sailing goal.

Do I need to own a boat to join?

Not at all. The club has a number of boat owning members who are often looking for fellow members to join them as crew at our events. In addition, we also organise charter boats where we have a skipper on board and take out people who don't have boats but want to go sailing. The cost is split between the crew for the weekend or week.

Club Life & Inclusivity

Where do most events and sailing trips take place?

We often sail in the Solent, the mecca of UK sailing, but we also do some on the east coast of the UK. We have plans to expand and go further afield next year with the help of other volunteers in the club.

Are women actively involved in the club?

Yes, all genders are involved in the club.

Is the club only for LGBT+ members, or can friends and allies join too?

Anyone can join. We are open to all – it's for anyone who wants to sail and be in a comfortable environment.

Safety & Practicalities

Can I bring my dog aboard?

This is skipper-dependent. We'd recommend against it unless the dog has been brought up on boats, as the unsteady, moving environment can be very frightening to animals who don't understand why everything is noisy and moving.

What should I wear on a sailing trip?

We'd recommend bringing the following: a sleeping bag and pillow, and a wash kit and towel. For clothing, bring sensible shoes and things you don't mind possibly getting wet – you'll need outdoor-style clothes (think hiking gear) and shower-proofs. Layers help, so being able to layer up when it gets chilly really helps keep you warm; it can be very active on a boat, but there are times when you'll be sat down, which can get cooler, so layer up. Foul weather gear is often supplied on charter boats; if you're joining someone who privately owns their boat, please think about bringing your own. Hats and gloves are always useful, as are sun cream, sunglasses and baseball caps – you'll need them at all times of year.

What if I get seasick?

For first-timers, we really recommend popping to a pharmacy beforehand and getting some sea-sickness medication. Taking it before the trip will help you a lot towards having a more enjoyable experience, as will drinking fluids throughout the day. Even some of the most experienced skippers still get seasick and take medication for their sailing weekend.

Are there any medical or fitness requirements for sailing?

No medical requirements, but you need to be fit and able to move around the boat and get on and off it unaided.

Is there a minimum age to join or take part in events?

Yes, we only have over-18s on the boats.

What happens if the weather is bad – are events cancelled?

If we cancel the event, we will fully refund the event costs. Sometimes the skippers will still carry on, and you can still go sailing, get some time on the water, and have a great weekend sailing.

What safety equipment do I need to bring?

Joining a club-organised boat, you don't need to bring any safety kit – we have it all on board to keep you safe at sea.

Training & Skills

Are there opportunities to practice skills between events?

Yes – either by getting to know members with boats, or by talking to our training team, who can help guide you.

What's the best way to build confidence as a new crew member?

The best way is to just do it – hop on a Competent Crew training course, learn the ropes, and get out there sailing. It's the way forward.

Is there support for members who want to get their own boat?

Yes. A lot of our members have had, or currently own, boats, so talk to them about the ownership side and how to get more out of it.

Can experienced sailors offer mentoring to beginners?

Yes, of course they can – a guide and mentor always helps get people on the water.

What RYA qualifications are relevant for club sailing?

You don't need any qualifications to join. Competent Crew and Day Skipper Practical are very valuable qualifications, though, and worth doing to get you on the water with the club – and with your mates.

Does the club offer sailing lessons or training?

Yes, we do. We offer training courses over split weekends for Competent Crew, and we work with an LGBTQ+-run sailing school who deliver training up to skipper level for our members.