Summer of Sailing: Opening doors for the next generation

As summer draws to a close, we’re reflecting on the impact of RYA Scotland's Summer of Sailing Community Youth Activation Fund which has helped affiliated clubs, centres and local communities in getting young people across Scotland out on the water. 

Launched in May 2026 with support from sportscotland's Summer of Sport initiative, the £40,000 fund supported new opportunities for children and young people to try sailing, boating and watersports. With an aim to help more young people get afloat, the fund was focussed on helping those delivering activity towards those with disadvantaged backgrounds and removing barriers and perceptions.

From the Highlands and Islands to the central belt and north-east coast, the spread of supported organisations shows the strength of Scotland's boating community, with funds distributed to over 25 locations with a wider range of RYA affiliate organisations bringing local knowledge, partnerships and energy to the programme. 

A key strength of the fund has been its focus on what happens next. While many activities took place over the summer, the real value is in the new connections made. Clubs have welcomed new participants, built local partnerships and grown volunteer capacity, helping more young people continue their sailing journey. 

The programme has also shown what affiliated organisations can achieve together. Whether giving beginners their first experience on the water, building confidence through regular activity or creating chances for families to get involved, projects have highlighted the positive role sailing and boating can play in active, connected communities. 

Summer of Sailing funding helped clubs expand opportunities for young people to get on the water, providing subsidised and free places where they were needed most while also investing in equipment that improved safety and accessibility. The additional resources gave organisations greater capacity to support participants of all abilities, helping more children build confidence and enjoy positive experiences afloat. 

The impact was felt both by delivery organisations and the young people taking part. One club highlighted that “New helmets allow the less experienced and smaller kids to get more confident quickly in more challenging conditions,” while participant feedback reflected the personal benefits of the programme, with one child sharing, “My favourite part was making new friends and controlling the sail.” Together, feedback shows that the programme not only introduced children to sailing, but helped develop confidence, friendships and a lasting enthusiasm for outdoor activity. 

RYA Scotland would like to thank every club, centre, community organisation, volunteer and instructor who helped make the Summer of Sailing a success. Their commitment and creativity have opened up new opportunities for young people across Scotland. 

Summer may be coming to an end, but the momentum from these projects continues. The young people who stepped aboard for the first time this year are part of the future of our sport, and the communities that welcomed them are helping keep sailing open, accessible and thriving across Scotland. 

To explore the organisations and projects supported through the Summer of Sailing Community Youth Activation Fund, visit the Summer of Sailing webpage.