SWAC Sailability Club

Sailability Club

Inclusive weekly, year round ssailing 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 year round 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

• • Wednesday morning session: From 1000 to 1200, weekly, (subject to weather), all year round (excluding most school holidays).

  • Wednesday evenings sessions (becoming Thursday evening session in 2027): From 1730 to 1930, weekly from May to October.

• Time: 2-hour sessions

• Location: Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC), SO14 3FL

• Seasonality:

  • November to April: Most sailing will be on board keelboats.
  • May to October: Sailing can be in dinghies or onboard keelboats

• Boats:

  • Keelboats:  Sonar or Tempest
  • Dinghies:  Hanse 303, RS Quest, RS Zest, RS Venture

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:

• Children, (8+) young people and adults with disabilities

• Individuals with physical, sensory, learning or hidden disabilities

• 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:

• Go sailing in suitable dinghies or keelboats

• Take an active role in sailing where possible

• Enjoy time afloat in a calm, encouraging environment

• 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:

• Experienced SWAC instructors

• Trained and supported volunteers

• 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:

• Clear briefings tailored to individual needs

• Adapted equipment and supportive techniques

• Well-maintained boats and facilities

• 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:

• A regular weekly routine

• Opportunities to meet others in a relaxed setting

• 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:

• Individual needs and access requirements

• Confidence levels and previous experience

• The best way to get started

For Volunteers

We are always keen to hear from people who would like to:

• Support disabled sailors on and off the water

• Be part of a friendly, inclusive team

• Gain experience in adaptive and inclusive sailing

Full support and guidance are provided.

Practical Information

• Sessions: Weekly, on Monday morning (year round excluding school holiday and/or Wednesday evenings May to October.

• Duration: Upto 2 hours

• Location: Southampton Water Activities Centre (SWAC)

• Support: Delivered by staff with volunteer assistance

• 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. 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 with the next 12 months,(subject too availability).

Contact SWAC to find out more about SWAC Sailability Club and how to get involved.