THE GWENNILI TRUST
The Gwennili Trust was founded in 1995 to provide yacht sailing opportunities for people with disabilities. Over the years people of all ages with a wide range of disabilities whether visually impaired, with learning difficulties or of limited mobility have enjoyed the thrill of sailing on our yachts.
The vessels used have either been purpose built for easy wheelchair access or are conventional yachts suitable for the more mobile. The Trust is fortunate to have access to a range of charter craft but is always interested to learn of available vessels - Contact us.
These vessels are operated by RYA certified volunteers acting as Skipper and Mate. New appropriately qualified volunteers are always welcome and should also Contact us.
The Trust is an approved RYA Sailability foundation organisation and a member of ASTO (Association of Sail Training Organisations).
Our events are normally run out of Portsmouth but there are also opportunities to participate from other South Coast ports.
Our Sailing Programme offers a wide range of different events:
- 1 day - Sailing on a wheelchair friendly vessels in the Solent.
- 3 days - Solent area cruises on a conventional yacht.
- 5 days - South Coast cruises on a conventional yacht.
- 7 days - A cruise to France and/or the Channel Islands.
Obviously itineraries can vary according to weather conditions and the desires of the crew.
To apply for a place on one of these events and to see our charges go to Application form.
The Trust also runs Training courses which can provide people with disabilities RYA certification. Courses are typically run in April and September and cover Competent Crew, Day Skipper and above.
To get an understanding of a typical cruise visit the Voyage Reports section which gives accounts of trips taken during the last three years.
Our Gallery page features many photographs of crew members enjoying the experience of sailing.
To learn about our other affiliations go to Links and Affiliations.
For a full account of our activities in the last year please download the Chairman's Annual Report 2013