Bookings for RYA Passage to Portland to open at PSP Southampton Boat Show 

Join in the celebrations...

At the PSP Southampton Boat Show on Saturday 24 September, 11.00, RYA stand (EO37) the RYA will officially open bookings for cruisers to join us for ‘Passage to Portland’.  

The event which is part of the RYA’s Sail for Gold programme takes place from 2-5 June 2012 and will be a weekend of celebrations, open to both sail and motor cruisers.   

A unique experience

This unique event will give participants an exclusive opportunity to tour the Olympic and Paralympic sailing venue ahead of the 2012 Games; provide a behind-the-scenes look at the Skandia Sail for Gold regatta, as well as the chance to join in with celebrations for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.  

“Participants simply need to join us in Portland, where we have pre-booked berths for three nights at Portland Marina and enjoy the event”, explains Celia Edgington, Sail for Gold co-ordinator.  

“There will be the opportunity to watch the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant, taking place on Sunday 3rd, which we will be showing on big screen TV’s. 

Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

Then in the evening, Portland Castle becomes the perfect setting for our fantastic Queen's Diamond Jubilee dinner and party. The evening will be hosted by popular, sailor, author and speaker, Tom Cunliffe and with a red, white and blue, 'British Street Party’ theme, this promises to be a night to remember.”  

As well as touring the Olympic and Paralympic sailing venue throughout Sunday, in the evening, Stephen Park OBE, RYA Olympic Manager, will be giving guests an insight into the team's preparations for the Games.  

Special guest commentators

On Monday spectator boats will be available to go and watch all the racing on the first day of the Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta.  Double Olympic gold medallist Sarah Ayton will be providing the race commentary, giving you the a perfect opportunity to watch the sailing team race on the Games race course before the big event begins in July, with the added insight of a sailing champion.   

“We are urging people to sign up early as places will be limited to approximately 100 boats.  So please come and find us on the RYA stand (EO37) at the boat show from 11:00 on Saturday 24 September, join us for a glass of bucks fizz to find out more and register your interest”, concluded Celia.

Find out more

To find out more visit www.rya.org.uk/sailforgold If you would like to register your interest in this event, please email your name, full postal address and RYA membership number (if applicable) to P2P@rya.org.uk or complete the online enquiry form at www.rya.org.uk/go/p2p