Sailability Club
Inclusive Wednesday Evening Sailing at SWAC
Our Sailability Club is an inclusive, friendly sailing programme designed to enable disabled people to enjoy being on the water, build confidence and experience the freedom of sailing in a safe, supportive environment.
The club operates from Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC) and follows the inclusive principles of RYA Sailability, using adapted approaches, supportive instruction and a strong volunteer team.
When the Club Runs
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Day: Wednesday evenings
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Time: 2-hour sessions
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Season: 17 weeks spread across May to September
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Location: Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC), SO14 3FL
Each session is relaxed, social and participant-led, with the emphasis on enjoyment, independence and time on the water rather than formal instruction or assessment.
Who the Club Is For
The Sailability Club is open to:
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Children, young people and adults with disabilities
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Individuals with physical, sensory, learning or hidden disabilities
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People new to sailing and those with previous experience
No prior sailing knowledge is required. Activities are adapted to suit each individual’s ability, confidence and goals.
What to Expect on the Water
Participants will be supported to:
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Go sailing in suitable dinghies and small craft
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Take an active role in sailing where possible
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Enjoy time afloat in a calm, encouraging environment
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Build confidence, independence and wellbeing
Sessions are flexible and responsive, allowing participants to progress at their own pace or simply enjoy being on the water.
Support, Volunteers & Staff
Each session is delivered through a combination of:
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Experienced SWAC instructors
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Trained and supported volunteers
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One-to-one or small-group assistance where appropriate
Volunteers play a vital role in helping participants rig boats, get afloat and enjoy their time sailing, always working alongside our professional staff and within clear safety systems.
A Safe & Inclusive Environment
Safety and inclusion are central to the Sailability Club:
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Clear briefings tailored to individual needs
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Adapted equipment and supportive techniques
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Well-maintained boats and facilities
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A welcoming, respectful and non-judgemental atmosphere
We work closely with participants, families and carers to understand any specific requirements in advance.
The Social Side
As well as sailing, the club offers:
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A regular weekly routine
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Opportunities to meet others in a relaxed setting
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A strong sense of community among sailors, volunteers and staff
Many participants value the club as much for its social connection as for the sailing itself.
Getting Involved
For Participants
If you or someone you support would like to take part, we’re happy to discuss:
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Individual needs and access requirements
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Confidence levels and previous experience
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The best way to get started
For Volunteers
We are always keen to hear from people who would like to:
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Support disabled sailors on and off the water
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Be part of a friendly, inclusive team
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Gain experience in adaptive and inclusive sailing
Full support and guidance are provided.
Practical Information
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Sessions: Weekly, May–September (with 2 weeks off mid summer)
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Duration: Upto 2 hours
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Location: Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC)
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Support: Delivered by staff with volunteer assistance
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Experience required: None
Join Our Sailability Club
Whether you’re a participant, family member, carer or potential volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. Your first session as a participant with us is completely free, so you can meet us and see if sailing is for you. After that it is £25/session and sessions can be booked below. If we have to cancel a session due to foul weather then you can use that credit to re book a later session the same season (subject too availability).
Contact SWAC to find out more about SWAC Sailability Club and how to get involved.