Five great reasons to get on the water this autumn 

With so much on offer why would you think about packing your boat or windsurfing kit up until next spring?

Autumn is drawing in and along with typically chillier weather we’re also starting to lose daylight! However at this time of year we also welcome some stunning colours, clear skies, crisp mornings usually plenty of breeze. With so much on offer why would you think about packing your boat or windsurfing kit up until next spring?  

Here are five great reasons to get on the water this autumn.  

Water temperature

You may be surprised to know that for most the UK, on average, the water temperature in October is still as warm as it is in June!  

Sea temperatures are at their maximum in autumn, while inland water temperatures (although inevitably varying considerably depending on location) may typically be cooler in the autumn as the sea takes longer to cool.  

Excellent conditions  

The UK tends to get some good low pressure systems moving through during the autumn and winter months providing some excellent sailing conditions.   Amanda Van Santen RYA Chief Instructor for Dinghy and Windsurfing explains: “I always feel autumn and winter provide more exhilarating sailing, with strong South-Westerly winds, challenging conditions and often colder weather, which brings that nice tingle to your body after an exhilarating sail!”  

If you’re windsurfing weather conditions can bring anything from flat water blasting to choppier, challenging waters and some great swells being produced for wave sailing.  

Great gear  

In recent years we’ve seen advances in materials, making clothing and wetsuits more durable, comfortable, windproof and with better thermal insulation. All this enables us to tackle the conditions we face during the Autumn and Winter months. These advances also mean gear is often more accessibly available and at reasonable prices.  

Clothing experts Gill said: “The market is constantly changing so we’re continuously developing our fabrics to keep up with the latest technology and innovation. We want to offer the best protection in all weather conditions whilst being comfortable and still looking good. Everything is tested both in our lab and on the water to make sure our sailing kit delivers”.  

Carry on racing

Whatever the time of year, there are plenty of opportunities to get your racing fix.   Frostbite Series’, which traditionally start early November, are hugely popular both coastal and inland, with a number of clubs running local inter-club Frostbite series’ giving you the motivation to keep coming back whatever the weather!

To stop you getting cold many clubs simply shortened their races or start them earlier towards the end of the year, giving you more time to warm up afterwards.

Keep fit

Sailing provides heaps of health and fitness benefits including the fresh air so why not make the most of them all year round?   Both sailing and windsurfing can provide a full body workout especially during a strong windy winter sail.

You can also build core strength and balance as well as working out arms, abs, lower back and legs!