Whether you’ve never sailed before or already know the ropes, you’ll feel welcome and have fun from the very first time you visit one of our RYA Sailability venues.  

It’s normal to feel apprehensive, want reassurance that sailing is going to be suitable and to discuss your needs in a safe and private environment. You will have lots of questions. Venues will be happy to provide any information and have a conversation about the support you need so you can fully take part. The more you find out the better that first experience will be.

Before your visit

1. Find out what support you can expect
2. Plan what you need to bring 
3. Think about what the staff or volunteers might need to know to help you

You don’t have to go on the water the first time. Find your way around the facilities, talk to other sailors and volunteers, or just watch to see how it all works. 

The support you need 

You know yourself better than anyone. To get the most out of the experience, have a conversation about what sailing involves, your aspirations, concerns and any specific needs you have.  

Bring the right clothes and equipment 

Being on the water brings great freedom but it also means you might get wet from the spray or rain, so be prepared! You’ll need: 

• Footwear you don’t mind getting wet 
• Clothes that allow a bit of a movement and keep you warm 
• A spare change of clothes for once you’re back ashore 

Some venues will have buoyancy aids, lifejackets and waterproof jackets and/or trousers you can borrow, but it’s worth checking before you visit so you know what to bring.  

Find out more about what to wear sailing.

Think about food and drink 

Sailing is active and can be a real workout, so think about what food and drink you might need before or after the session to keep your energy levels up. Check if the venue has food and drink on site or bring your own.  

Go at your pace 

Sailing depends on the weather – it might be very windy, or flat clam. There will be a responsible person at every venue who will decide if the conditions are right for sailing, but it’s always your choice whether you want to get afloat.  

Learning something new is exciting! But try to progress too fast and you could end up frustrated and not enjoying your sailing. So many factors determine what you can enjoy safely on any given day, be aware of your limits and make sure everyone supporting you is working within them. Take things one step at a time.