On Saturday 17 May, JBT Marine Training Centre in Cosham, Lee on Solent Sailing Club, Mengeham Rythe Sailing Club on Hayling Island, and Thorney Island SC, Emsworth will all be opening their doors and inviting people of all ages and abilities to come along and have a go at sailing and windsurfing.

The following day (Sunday 18 May) Langstone Sailing Club in Havant will do the same.

Whether you’re completely new to the sport, looking to get back on the water or sail regularly the clubs will be amongst many sailing clubs and centres  across the country taking part in RYA Push the Boat Out weekend. 

The event will see hundreds of people taking part in the sport at open days, have a go sessions and fun events for all the family.  

Start times vary so be sure to contact the club of your choice to find out more details.  There will be a whole host of activities taking place. Langstone, for instance is offering taster sailing in Tera, Feva and Vision class dinghies with experienced junior (ages 13-16) and adult helms. People with disabilties are also welcome to find out more about the club’s Sailability activities.    

JBT Marine Training Centre are offering free RYA Powerboat Course Taster sessions to give you the chance to get out on the water and enjoy the sunshine with your family. Come along and learn the basics of powerboat handling. Lee on Solent is offering a full programme for the whole family including competitions and games with a pirate theme and adult refresher coaching.

Mengeham Rythe invites youth members to ‘bring a friend’ day while Thorney Island invites all ages and abilities to get on the water.   Tracy Woodall of Langstone SC said: “We are delighted to be taking part in the RYA Push the Boat Out. We are inviting dinghy sailors, families and people wanting to start the sport to have a go on the water and see what the club has to offer and get involved.  Who knows if you visit you might just get hooked!”

Langstone’s information is also on their website

RYA Sport Development Manager Duncan Truswell said “Push the Boat Out provides the perfect opportunity for people to discover their local sailing venue, meet key volunteers and like-minded people, have a go at the sport and find out how much fun it is and how easy it is to get involved.”  

For full details about what’s going on and to book a place:  

JBT Marine Training Centre

Langstone Sailing Club

Lee on Solent Sailing Club 

Mengeham Rythe Sailing Club 

Thorney Island Sailing Club 

More information on RYA Push the Boat Out