Water quality 

Calling for cleaner waters for safe, healthy, enjoyable sailing and boating across the UK 

people racing in clean blue water

Water quality is an area of serious concern for The RYA, its members, affiliates and recognised training centres.  

Pollution from various sources contaminates UK inland and coastal waters. It is damaging ecosystems and causing illness among people who take part in sport and physical activity in, on or around these waters. Training sessions and activities have been cancelled or postponed because water has not met the standards for safe participation.  

We want to see cleaner waters for safe, healthy, enjoyable recreational boating across the whole of the UK. Our concerns are both about the safety of the water from a human health perspective and the maintenance of a clean, natural, wildlife-rich environment for our members to enjoy. 

"Spending time on the water has always been a big part of my life, from rafting on rivers in the Scottish Highlands to sailing regattas on the south coast of England. Having to think about whether the water quality is safe is never something I thought I would have to do. This isn’t just a risk to athletes but for all water sports enthusiasts out enjoying their passion at clubs and centres across the UK. The state of our rivers, lakes and coastal waters needs to be urgently improved and protected to ensure the next generation experience the amazing benefits that sailing and water sports can bring."  - Fynn Sterritt, British Sailing Team.

What we’re doing 

Clean Water Sports Alliance 

The RYA is a founding member of the Clean Water Sports Alliance, advocating for the restoration of the UK’s blue spaces for the enjoyment of all. 

Surfers Against Sewage End Sewage Pollution Manifesto 

We have joined twelve leading organisations, including Swim England and Paddle UK to sign the manifesto.  

Guidance for members, affiliates and training centres 

Information on understanding water quality risks, water testing, reporting and building a water quality picture at your local level.  

Water quality position 

Why and how we are working for improved water quality for all recreational water users, including calling for year-round water quality testing.  

The Green Blue 

Through our outreach programme we inform and encourage boaters to adopt best practice to minimise their own impact on water quality.  

Water quality reporting – how you can help 

By completing a report, you can help us build a picture of water quality across the UK, and any impact on events and activities.