There’s no need to buy a boat when you start out. Most of the clubs and training centres have boats available for you to learn in and share with others. Crewing on board the larger yachts is also a great opportunity to get out on the water. Find out what your local venue has to offer.

Many clubs and centres have a stock of buoyancy aids, wet suits and waterproof jackets for you to borrow. Once you have been out to Try Sailing, you can then choose to invest in a buoyancy aid, wetsuit and booties for dinghy sailing or windsurfing,  or lifejacket, waterproofs and wellies for yachting or powerboating.

You’re never too old to start. There are so many different types of sailing available. Dinghies are small boats that come in different shapes and sizes, and can be sailed by 1 or 2 people. We recommend you contact the club or centre near you and ask what type of dinghies they use. Cruising and Keelboat Sailing as well as Powerboating are suitable for 2 or more people, and can be a more comfortable option for achy knees.

No, you don’t need to know how to swim. Wear a buoyancy aid or lifejacket and you will be fine. Let your instructor or fellow sailors know if you are a non swimmer.

You don’t need to be fit to start sailing. The different types of boats available mean there will be a boat to suit your level of fitness. Sailing will not only help to get you physically fit, but it will also help your mental fitness too!

Irish Sailing has a network of clubs and centres that cater for sailor with disabilities. Contact the venue near you and talk to them about your capabilities and they will welcome you aboard. This year we’re hosting the annual Watersports Inclusion Games in Galway, so keep an eye on our website to see how you can get involved.