Creating spaces for women to thrive: Women on Water Development Day
A unique training day took place at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club in March 2025, bringing together female powerboat drivers and dinghy sailors aged between 37 and 75.
The RYA Women on Water Development Day offered a dedicated opportunity for female participants to connect, support one another, and develop their skills in a safe and encouraging environment.
Led by two highly experienced female RYA Trainers, the day focused on progression, confidence-building, and technical development for women with existing skills — dinghy sailors with RYA Level 3 equivalent experience and powerboaters holding a minimum of Powerboat Level 2.
Members of the club’s newly formed ‘Women on Water’ group were also on site to share their experiences and highlight the positive impact of grassroots initiatives in creating welcoming spaces for women at club level.
Jen Miller, one of the lead RYA Powerboat Instructors on the day, said: “I’m so passionate about this sport and what I’ve achieved through it. What I really want is to share that passion with other women — there’s nothing holding them back if they don’t want it to.”
Hear Jen's story:
The event is part of a wider programme of regional and national initiatives led by the RYA and our affiliated clubs, aimed at increasing female participation in watersports—whether newcomers, returners, or those developing their pathway toward instructing.
RYA East Regional Manager, Robbie Bell added: “At the RYA, we know the water is a space for everyone. With another Development Day taking place in April, this event in Felixstowe is already helping to build momentum and show the importance of creating spaces where women can grow in confidence, build skills, and enjoy time on the water — together.”
If you’re a club or instructor looking to grow female participation or support women in progressing toward instructing roles, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us at the RYA at sport.development@rya.org.uk for more information and support.