New to Sailing

Boating is one of the very few sports in which able-bodied sailors and sailors with disabilities can participate on equal terms.

There are many opportunities for people with a disability to get afloat on all types of boats.

Sailability is the Royal Yachting Association’s (RYA’s) national programme to support and encourage people with disabilities to take up sailing.

With 202 recognised RYA Sailability sites in the UK, there are many opportunities for sailors with disabilities to get out on the water, whether alone or in a double-handed boat. Through Sailability, over 53,000 young people and adults with disabilities are introduced to sailing each year, with many going on to sail on a regular basis at RYA recognised clubs and centres across the country.

Here at Rye Harbour Sailability we provide sailing in adapted boats, namely a Drascombe Lugger and a Sport 16. Each of our present boats is certified to carry 6 persons including an experienced helm and crew. Under the watchful eye of an RYA Senior Instructor we sail at Rye Harbour and if the weather permits Rye Bay. When sailing our rescue boat provides safety cover for the dinghies. We hire the facilities at Rye Harbour Sailing Club. We provide helmets and buoyancy aids and after each sailing event food is available to buy, when we either hold a BBQ or provide a hot meal for those who wish to stay and socialise.

Rye Harbour Sailability is open to all, regardless of age or disability, however, we do not have facilities for the use of a hoist. We launch off a slipway where you will need to stand in at least six inches of water before getting both legs over the side of the boat to get on board. We do have use of a gate on the adjacent quay to the slipway, where you will need to be able to step down into the boat. People who sail with us have a wide range of disabilities including learning difficulties, autism, dementia, mental health issues, cerebral palsy and schizoaffective disorder.

For more information, please email info@ryeharboursailability.org or if you would like to chat please call 01797 223112.