Despite breezy conditions and a touch of chop on the water, nothing could dampen the spirit of this year's Women on Water (WOW) Festival. With around 25 participants and over 15 dedicated volunteers on hand, Carrickfergus Sailing Club proved the perfect backdrop for a day of water-based adventure, skills-building and community.

A Day on (and off) the Water

With the wind picking up throughout the day, the team made smart, safety-first decisions. Conditions weren't suitable for getting dinghies out onto the open water, but that didn't stop participants from getting a full, hands-on experience of what sailing is all about.

On the water, women took to powerboats and yachts, navigating the waters around Carrickfergus with the guidance of experienced and encouraging instructors. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) was also on offer, adding an extra element of fun to the day.

Back on land at the club, participants took part in rigging drills, a practical skills-based session that gave everyone a real insight into dinghy sailing and the mechanics behind it. Far from feeling like a consolation, these sessions were a highlight for many, offering the kind of foundational knowledge that builds genuine confidence on the water.

Why Women on Water Matters

Established just over a decade ago, the WOW initiative has played a crucial role in growing female participation in sailing and boating across Northern Ireland and beyond. Research carried out on behalf of RYA has shown that when spaces are created exclusively for women and girls, they are more likely to take up the sport, and when skills and confidence-building activities are provided, they are more likely to stay in it.

2026 marks the second year of a three-year partnership with Belfast-based chartered accountancy RBCA, the first-ever sponsor of the Women on Water programme. Their support is helping to build awareness and enhance WOW-related programming at clubs right across the region.

Ross Boyd, founder and director of RBCA, said: "We encourage a healthy work-life balance and believe that spending time outdoors and learning new skills contributes positively to mental resilience. We are confident that with our support and influence, RYA Northern Ireland will see more women and girls taking to the water."

RBCA's Gemma Boyd, who attended the Carrickfergus event, added: "Women on Water gave me much-needed time out to enjoy the great outdoors while connecting with other women as we experienced something new together. It's the perfect opportunity to grow in confidence on the water in a safe, fun and beginner-friendly environment."

Positive Feedback All Round

Lisa McCaffrey, RYA Northern Ireland's Development Officer who led the day's activities, reflected on what made the festival so special: "We hope everyone walks away feeling inspired, energised and connected, not just to the water, but to the community around it. Trying something new can be intimidating, but we like to think that everybody has to start somewhere, and that is exactly why the WOW Festival concept works so well."

The feedback from participants on the day was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing interest in taking their sailing journey further. It is exactly the kind of response the WOW programme is designed to inspire.

Want to Get on the Water?

Inspired by what you've read? You don't have to wait until next year's festival. There are a number of Try Sailing events being hosted by clubs across Northern Ireland throughout the year, the perfect opportunity to take your first steps on the water in a welcoming, supportive environment.

For more information on RYA Northern Ireland's Women on Water programme, visit rya.org.uk/gbni/ryani. To find out more about festival sponsor RBCA, visit rbca.co.