Half Day Yacht Racing

  • Ref: SNTFH

  • Duration: 3½ hrs

  • Close yacht racing in Sigma 8s - fast and maneuverable racing yachts
  • A thrilling yacht race round a floating race track
  • Suitable for non-sailors, safety briefing and all equipment included

Get your competitive spirit going with close yacht racing - combining the freedom of the open water with the thrill of racing and the satisfaction of hands-on involvement. You'll be on board a modern Sigma 8 meter yacht, a fast, maneuverable boat. First you'll meet your skipper and the crew for coffee and biscuits, before heading to the yachts for a safety briefing. Training includes hoisting sails, helming, practicing the most efficient methods of maneuvering the yacht and learning how to keelhaul landlubbers (or maybe not). Then you'll be briefed on the rules of the race, which takes place on a floating 'race track'. And it's all hands on deck - you'll participate fully in crewing the yacht during the race, putting into action everything that you've learned and pitting you against the competition and the elements. Afterwards you'll retire to the clubhouse for results.

Location: Brighton, East Sussex

More Information:

Participant Guidelines: Maximum weight is around 100 kg. You don't need any previous sailing experience, but you need to be reasonably fit - this is active stuff! Non-swimmers are welcome.

Weather: Sailing is a weather dependent activity and strong winds or rough seas will have an impact on the day. In the event of a cancellation, you can choose from the alternate experiences provided by red.

Duration: Your experience begins at 9am and finishes at approximately 12.30pm. The actual race normally lasts for around 20 minutes, depending on conditions.

Spectators: Spectators are welcome to come down to the pontoon and wave you off. The race can be viewed from the breakwater or the beach.

Dress Code: Dress warmly and wear flat, soft-soled shoes, e.g. deck shoes or trainers. Wear lots of layers, as even in summer it can get cold out at sea. Bring an anorak, lip balm and sunblock. Life-jackets and all sailing gear will be provided.

Availability: Selected Saturday and Sunday mornings from April to September.