Solo Eastern Area Open at Rollesby Broad Sailing Club

 

Sixteen competitors faced a day of unpredictable, often testing conditions at the Eastern Area Solo Open hosted by Rollesby Broad Sailing Club on Saturday. With six visiting sailors joining the ten strong home fleet, the racing quickly proved both close and tactical.

Local knowledge helped in moments, but it was the visitors who consistently occupied the sharp end of the results. Positions changed constantly throughout the day, and several tie breaks were ultimately needed to separate the overall standings.

The overall winner was Jasper Barnham, representing Snettisham Beach. Godfrey Clark from Fishers Green was second overall. Chris Bunn completed the top three in third overall, representing Lady Yacht Club. The visitors rounded out the top six and first Rollesby Solo was Robert Hawkings, who finished seventh overall.

Overall Results:

Pos Sail No Helm Club R1 R2 R3 R4 Pts

1st 5887 Jasper Barnham Snettisham Beach 1 ‑4 2 1 4

2nd 4801 Godfrey Clark Fishers Green 2 1 1 ‑8 4

3rd 6138 Chris Bunn LYC 3 2 ‑7 7 12

4th 5953 Martin Brooking Hunts SC ‑6 6 4 3 13

5th 5838 Bryan Morum Hickling SC ‑10 8 5 2 15

6th 4761 Alan Wright SESCA 5 5 ‑8 5 15

7th 5472 Robert Hawkings RBSC 4 ‑7 6 6 16

8th 4842 Kevin Edwards RBSC 7 ‑9 9 4 20

9th 3175 Daniel Bull RBSC 8 3 ‑10 10 21

10th 5443 John Saddington RBSC ‑11 11 3 9 23

11th 5259 Glen Barker RBSC 12 10 ‑14 11 33

12th 5336 Robert Black RBSC ‑13 12 12.5 12 36.5

13th 5232 Roger Wilson RBSC 9 13 (DNF) DNS 39

14th 4180 Phil Alison RBSC 14 14 ‑15 13 41

15th 3534 Steve Lee RBSC 15 (OCS) 12.5 14 41.5

16th 4864 Phil Atherton RBSC (DNF) 15 11 DNS 43

Upcoming Open Day at Attenborough Sailing Club

 

Attenborough Sailing Club continues to offer local residents the opportunity to enjoy sailing in the scenic surroundings of Attenborough Nature Reserve. The club sails on Coneries Lagoon, the lake located to the right as visitors drive toward the Attenborough Nature Reserve Centre car park.

Known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, the club attracts members from across the local area who share a love of being on the water. New members are encouraged to get involved and are warmly welcomed into the community.

In recent years, the club has developed a modern clubhouse featuring a fully equipped clubroom, changing facilities and disabled access. A viewing balcony overlooking the Nature Reserve allows members and visitors to enjoy the wildlife and sailing activity taking place on the lagoon.

Many members first learn to sail through the club’s Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training courses, which run throughout the year. Others join after learning while on holiday and wish to build on their experience closer to home. The club also welcomes people who simply enjoy spending time around boats and the water.

Members of all ages take part in a variety of activities including racing, cruising and social events. Regular club racing takes place on Sundays and Wednesday evenings, while youth events are organised throughout the year. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, Friday afternoon and evening cruising and social gatherings are becoming increasingly popular.

Sailing at the club is accessible to people from all backgrounds. Individual membership costs £130 per year, with significant discounts available for families, students and young people. New members can initially use club boats before deciding whether to purchase their own, with pre-owned boats often available within the club for just a few hundred pounds.

The club’s annual Open Day regularly attracts more than 300 visitors. This year, the event will take place on Saturday 9 May from 10:30am to 4:00pm, when members of the local community are invited to “come and have a go”.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a pair of soft shoes that can get wet and enjoy a free boat ride with an experienced sailor. Alternatively, guests can relax on the clubhouse balcony with tea, coffee, ice cream, cake or a drink while watching the activities.

More information can be found on the club’s Facebook group, Attenborough Sailing Club, or on its website at www.attenboroughsc.org.uk.

Sea Racing Returns to the Enterprise Northern Series at Tynemouth Sailing Club

 

The 2026 Northern Series for the iconic Enterprise dinghy continues later this month as the fleet heads to the coast for the second event of the season at Tynemouth Sailing Club on 25-26 April.

Following the opening event at Scammonden Water Sailing Club, the series moves from inland waters to the dynamic sea conditions of the North Sea for what promises to be an exciting weekend of racing.

The event offers competitors a valuable opportunity to experience sea sailing conditions ahead of the upcoming Enterprise National Championships 2026, which will take place just across the River Tyne at South Shields Sailing Club from 23-26 May. With the Nationals on the horizon, the Tynemouth weekend is expected to attract a strong fleet looking to fine-tune their performance and gain valuable coastal racing experience.

Sailing from Priors Haven at the mouth of the River Tyne, Tynemouth offers a spectacular venue combining open sea racing, shifting tidal influences and the potential for exhilarating planing conditions. The club has a long tradition of hosting visiting fleets and delivering competitive yet welcoming events, making it an ideal stop on this year's Northern Series circuit.

The Northern Series itself forms part of the 70th anniversary celebrations for the Enterprise class, bringing together sailors from across the UK to enjoy close racing, friendly competition and the renowned social atmosphere the fleet is known for.

Entries for the Tynemouth event are now open, with an early bird entry discount currently available for a limited time. Competitors are encouraged to sign up early to secure the reduced rate and guarantee their place on the start line.

With strong racing expected, a warm welcome from the host club and the promise of classic North Sea sailing conditions, the Tynemouth event is shaping up to be a key highlight in the run-up to this year's National Championship.

Whether you are chasing Northern Series points, preparing for the Nationals, or simply keen to enjoy competitive sea sailing with the Enterprise fleet, Tynemouth promises a weekend not to miss. Prizes on offer from series sponsors Peak Dinghies, Allen and North Sails.

Entries now open for Craftinsure Wayfarer Nationals

 The Wayfarer Class National Championships for the past four years have been windy events - at Arun in 2022, Dabchicks in 2023, Brixham in 2024 and last year at Shoreham.

For 2026, the National Championship is going to be hosted by Grafham Water Sailing Club over three days from Friday 26th to Sunday 28th June.

The expectation is for less challenging conditions; although wind strength is never a given, the absence of waves and tides can be guaranteed!

With generous support from Craftinsure, our title sponsor, we are offering discounted entry fees for entries made by 31st May.

Early entrants will also be able to buy event polo shirts at a considerable discount.

We are also making available a two-day entry, covering the Saturday and Sunday, for those unable to get away on the Friday.

The race schedule has been designed so that, provided we complete the full schedule of races, those competing on just two days can compete for overall honours.

Grafham Water offers on-site camping and campervan facilities and all-day catering.

The Wayfarer Class has a number of very active fleets around the country, but has recently struggled to persuade many of these club sailors to travel to championships.

The intention is to broaden the appeal of its National Championship this year to encourage a larger turnout, and so that it becomes an annual gathering of racing Wayfarer sailors.

Grafham is within a reasonable distance from many of these active club fleets.

There will be a 'buddy' system to pair less experienced sailors with more experienced ones.

There will be 'Silver' and 'Bronze' fleets established, so everyone has something to aim for.

Entry to these Championships is now open.

More details, including the Notice of Race, can be found on the UK Wayfarer Association website here.

Cyprus is a Mediterranean paradise offering stunning beaches, rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, making it a must-visit destination.

 

Here’s a well-balanced 7-day sailing itinerary around Cyprus that mixes short scenic sails, swim stops, and genuinely worthwhile onshore activities. It’s based on real charter routes but enhanced with more interesting land experiences so it doesn’t feel like just hopping marinas.

⛵ 7-Day Cyprus Sailing Itinerary (culture + nature + relaxed sailing)

Overview

Start/finish: Larnaca

Style: Easy coastal sailing (10–30 NM per day)

Best for: Mixed crews (relaxation + exploration)

Cyprus is ideal because distances are short and anchorages are frequent, making it a relaxed sailing destination.

Day 1 – Larnaca → Ayia Napa (Cape Greco)

Sailing: ~20 NM (easy start)

Onshore highlights:

Swim/snorkel at Konnos Bay

Explore Cape Greco National Forest Park (sea caves + cliff views)

Sunset at Nissi Beach

💡 Great first day: short sail, crystal-clear water, dramatic coastline.

Day 2 – Ayia Napa → Protaras

Sailing: ~5–10 NM (very relaxed)

Onshore highlights:

Beach time at Fig Tree Bay

Walk up to Profitis Elias Church (panoramic views)

Paddleboarding or snorkeling

💡 Low sailing time = more water sports and downtime.

Day 3 – Protaras → Famagusta Bay

Sailing: ~15–20 NM

Onshore highlights:

Explore ruins of Salamis (Roman baths, amphitheatre)

Wander Famagusta old town walls

💡 One of the most historically rich days of the trip.

Day 4 – Famagusta → Kyrenia (North Coast)

Sailing: ~30 NM (longer but scenic)

Onshore highlights:

Harbour stroll in Kyrenia

Visit Kyrenia Castle (shipwreck museum)

Dinner by the Venetian harbour

💡 Arguably the prettiest harbour in Cyprus.

Day 5 – Kyrenia → Morphou Bay

Sailing: ~25 NM

Onshore highlights:

Visit ruins of Soli

Quiet anchorage, swimming, paddleboarding

💡 A “nature reset” day — far less touristy.

Day 6 – Morphou Bay → Paphos

Sailing: ~35–45 NM (longest leg – start early)

Onshore highlights:

Explore Paphos Archaeological Park

Sunset at Paphos Castle

Optional: visit Tombs of the Kings

💡 Big cultural payoff after a longer sail.

Day 7 – Paphos → Larnaca (via Limassol stop)

Sailing: ~45–60 NM (or split with stop)

Optional stop:

Limassol

Old town wander

Visit Kourion Archaeological Park

Return to Larnaca Marina

Final dinner on the promenade

💡 Flexible final day depending on pace and weather.

⚓ Alternative (Shorter / Easier Route)

If you want minimal long passages, stick to the south & east coast loop:

Larnaca → Ayia Napa → Protaras → Zygi → Limassol → back

This keeps legs shorter and avoids exposed west coast sailing.

🧭 Practical tips (important)

Best time: May–June & Sept–Oct (warm water, manageable winds)

Wind pattern: Light mornings, stronger afternoon sea breeze (typical Med sailing)

Navigation note: Northern Cyprus has political/entry considerations—check charter rules

Daily rhythm: 3–5 hours sailing + afternoons ashore = ideal balance

👍 Why this itinerary works

Mixes beaches, ruins, and local towns (not just marinas)

Alternates longer sails with easy days

Covers both lively and quiet areas

Includes UNESCO sites + hidden bays

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Title Sponsor secured for 50th Anniversary Sonata Nationals

 

The National Sonata Class Association is delighted to announce Goodall Roofing as the official Title Sponsor of the 2026 Sonata National Championships, taking place from 16th to 19th August 2026.

In the Sonata's 50th Anniversary Year, the National Championship will be hosted by the Royal Southern Yacht Club on the Hamble, bringing together top Sonata sailors from across the UK and Ireland for four days of competitive racing, camaraderie, and celebration of the iconic one-design class.

As Title Sponsor, Goodall Roofing, an award-winning, Isle of Wight-based roofing specialist, will support the event both on and off the water. Passionate Sonata supporter and owner Luke Goodall commented, "The One Design element of the Hunter Sonata is the thing that keeps the racing super close and exciting. As a company with strong ties to the community and a passion for supporting British sporting excellence, Goodall Roofing is proud to support the Sonata in its 50th Anniversary year. We had a great time supporting the 2021 Nationals in Cowes, and I look forward to competing against many other teams from around the country back on the Solent." Goodall continued, "As the roofing specialist for English Heritage in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, racing in front of an iconic building like Osbourne House will bring work and pleasure under one roof."

Sonata Class Association Chairman Alistair Bolton commented, "We are thrilled to welcome Goodall Roofing back as our Title Sponsor for the 2026 Nationals. Their commitment to the Sonata Class Association truly helps us to deliver a great Championship, and we look forward to racing around their very own racing mark that is out in the Solent."

From the 16th - 19th August, Teams will compete for the coveted Pimms Trophy and Sonata National Champion title. Reigning National Champion Joe Cross, [Having just retained his Endeavour Keelboat Trophy crown representing the Sonata.] will return with his Duette Team. Set to challenge Duette, multiple (19) times National Champion Steve Goacher with his 'Eric the Boat' Team and 2021 Nationals winner Max Richardson on board 'Little Scarlet' will no doubt mount a strong challenge.

"Team Duette are looking forward to defending our Title at the 50th Anniversary Nationals, along with one of my crew who can boast competing in the fourth Nationals back in 1980." Commented Joe Cross "Serial Champion Steve Goacher will be gunning to regain the title, along with multiple top teams from across the country, so it looks set to be a hotly contested championship! There are strong local fleets in the Solent, Poole and Weymouth, which could deliver a bumper turnout. Hopefully, the 50 boat target will be achieved, it would be great to see so many Sonatas on the start line!"

Racing in the Solent teams will have to battle the strong currents and localised weather patterns that make the Solent a unique racing venue for the event. The 2026 Goodall Roofing Sonata National Championship promises an exciting programme of competitive fleet racing, social events, and opportunities for sailors of all experience levels to connect. Entry details, information and Notice of Race can be found at www.sonata.org.uk

The Sonata Association is also providing three free entries and a small bursary to Under 25 youth teams (One member of the crew may be over 25). To enter the competition, a short video submission is required - Closing date for the competition is 1st May 2026 - for more information, head to www.sonata.org.uk

Windsong takes off for 2026 at Overy Staithe Sailing Club this weekend

 

This weekend the Windsong class will be racing in the glorious surroundings of Overy Staithe, the home of the designer John Owles and where the first boat was built.

The fleet will come together to race on the morning tide, ahead of the class going 'on tour' around the UK over the next few months. Will they be coming to a club near you?

On Saturday evening the class will have a social event, the first of the 2026. It promises to be an action packed season for this beautiful boat and its supporters.

Belfast Lough to come alive as GP14 World Championship 2026 set to arrive in Northern Ireland

Belfast Lough is set to come alive with over 100 boats from across the world as the spectacular GP14 World Championships sail into Northern Ireland in August 2026 - promising a week-long celebration of world-class racing, coastal energy and true regatta spirit.

Hosted by the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, and supported by Ards and North Down Borough Council, the championship will take place from 8th to 14th August 2026, welcoming elite sailors, families and supporters from across the globe to one of the UK and Ireland's most iconic sailing waters.

 

Such is the demand for the event, entries sold out in record time, with a waiting list now in place - a clear reflection of both the global popularity of the GP14 class and the appeal of Belfast Lough as a premier sailing destination. Competitors will range in age from just 14 to over 80 years old, showcasing the unique inclusivity and lifelong appeal of the sport.

From colourful sails lining the horizon to the buzz of crews preparing dockside, Belfast Lough and Holywood town, will transform into a vibrant international Regatta - a showcase not just of competitive sailing, but of Northern Ireland's warm hospitality, stunning coastline and proud maritime heritage.

Lindsay Nolan, Commodore of the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, said: "We are incredibly proud to bring the GP14 World Championships to Belfast Lough in 2026.

"This event will be a true celebration of sailing - not just for our club, but for Northern Ireland as a whole. We're looking forward to welcoming competitors and visitors from around the world and giving them an unforgettable experience both on and off the water."

Beyond the racing, the event is expected to deliver a significant boost to local tourism and the wider economy, with visitors exploring everything from seaside towns and coastal walks to the vibrant culture and hospitality of the region.

The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Gillian McCollum, said: "Hosting the GP14 World Championships in 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for our borough and for Northern Ireland as a whole. Belfast Lough provides a spectacular natural stage for world-class sailing, and this event will bring significant benefits for the local economy while showcasing our coastline, tourism offering and maritime heritage to an international audience. I wish all competitors and organisers every success for what promises to be a memorable championship"

With a packed schedule of racing, social events and onshore celebrations planned, the GP14 World Championships 2026 will be more than a sporting event - it will be a moment for Northern Ireland to shine on the global stage.

Further announcements, including event highlights and visitor information, will be released in the coming months.

Keep up to date with event timings or if you would like to offer your volunteer services visit rniyc.org , email manager@rniyc.org or call +44 (0)28 9042 8041.

Henri-Lloyd JOG Week 2026 Entries Open

 

Entries are open for Henri-Lloyd JOG Week 2026, taking place in Dartmouth from Saturday 25 to Wednesday 29 July 2026.

Based in the beautiful harbour town of Dartmouth, with the support of the Royal Dart Yacht Club, this family-friendly event promises to be a highlight of the 2026 season. The programme combines exciting coastal racing with the opportunity to enjoy one of the UK’s best sailing destinations, both on and off the water.

The programme includes a mix of racing across the week, starting with an optional offshore race from Cowes to Dartmouth.

Full details and entry at jog.org.uk/henri-lloyd-jog-week-2026

Discover Sailing at Dovestone Sailing Club

 

Enjoy a short sail with experts on Dovestone Reservoir

There are spots available for Dovestone Sailing Club's annual Open Day on the 16th May this year. Discover Sailing 2026 is your chance to get out on the water for 30 minutes with an experienced sailor and see if the sport appeals to you.

After your sail join us for some refreshments, included in your fee. If you've walked around the reservoir and thought it would be fun to get out on the water, now's your opportunity. Full details, what to wear, where to park etc, will be sent to you when you book a place.

Price is just £10 per person, with refreshments included, it's a bargain. Sign-up at

 dovestonesc.org.uk/events.php

Tideway 80th Firefly Nationals Entry Limit Raised to 120 as demand smashes previous limit

 

Amendment to Notice of Race confirmed as 2026 Tideway 80th Anniversary Nationals at Tenby Sailing Club approaches sold-out status and a race-ready Ovington Firefly up for grabs in the anniversary raffle (see T&C's on our website).

The National Firefly Association (NFA) is delighted to announce that, following agreement with Tenby Sailing Club, the entry limit for the 2026 Tideway 80th Anniversary National Championships has been increased to 120 boats. With 100 paid entries already confirmed and a Notice of Race amendment now published, the fleet is expected to reach capacity well ahead of the August event.

The NFA would like to thank the team at Tenby Sailing Club for their work so far to support this event in TSC's 90th year. The hard work of both their team and the ever-reliable pairing of Jim Bramley and Callum Farnden on behalf of the NFA means that we have enabled us to expand the fun.

The increase marks a significant milestone: the last time the Firefly gathered a fleet approaching this size was at Abersoch in 2006 - the class's 60th anniversary regatta -where 111 boats competed. That the 80th anniversary fleet looks set to surpass it speaks to how if you have great value boats and sails, welcoming socials, and a thriving UK University Team Racing scene, anything is possible.

The NFA has confirmed that a formal amendment to the Notice of Race has been issued and published on the Tenby Sailing Club website. Prospective entrants are advised to review the updated entry procedures. Those who have submitted entry forms will be contacted directly with bank details to complete payment if a place within the 120-boat limit is available. Once the limit is reached, the entry form will close, and those wishing to be considered should contact the event organisers directly to be placed on the waiting list, in line with the system used at last year's championship.

Win a brand-new race-ready Firefly

Adding to the occasion, the NFA has launched a major anniversary raffle giving every competitor the chance to win Firefly F4444, a race-ready boat built by Ovington Boats Ltd. to mark the class's 80th year. The complete prize package includes Selden spars, Hyde Sails and covers, and a Sailboat Trailers launch trolley.

Every helm and crew competing at the Nationals earns a raffle ticket (see the T&Cs on the NFA website). The draw will take place at the NFA 80th Anniversary Dinner on 21st November 2026 at the Royal Thames Yacht Club.

About the event

The championships are hosted by Tenby Sailing Club on the Pembrokeshire coast, with camping available at the nearby Tenby Rugby Club.

The 2026 Tideway 80th Anniversary National Championships is sponsored by Tideway Wealth. Additional class supporters include Ovington Boats, Selden, Hyde Sails, Sailboat Trailers, Craftinsure and Marlow Ropes.

Enter now at www.tenbysailingclub.org.uk/2026-firefly-nationals (Early entry closes: 12th May 2026)

Full event information at www.fireflyclass.co.uk/event/tideway-80th-nationals-tenby-sc

Disabled Sailors Association launches £1.2m appeal

 

The Disabled Sailors Association (DSA), a pioneering charity that has opened up sailing to people with disabilities for more than 30 years, has launched a £1.2 million fundraising appeal to complete the build of a groundbreaking new catamaran.

Based at Port Solent, Hampshire, the DSA was founded in 1993 by Mike Wood MBE, who, following a life-changing accident that left him paralysed, set out to make sailing accessible to all. Now aged 80, his vision has enabled more than 50,000 people to experience the hands-on exhilaration of sailing.

The charity supports people of all ages and abilities, from wheelchair users and amputees to those with complex disabilities and long-term health conditions, including their families and carers, ensuring that those who might otherwise never step aboard a boat can take to the water.

Operating from its current vessel, The Spirit of Scott Bader, the DSA delivers around 1,000 sailing opportunities each year. However, following the closure of the Jubilee Sailing Trust in 2024, demand has risen sharply and now far exceeds supply.

To meet this growing need, the DSA is building a new, fully accessible Dazcat 1500 at The Multihull Centre in Torpoint, Cornwall. The £2.5 million project will double the number of places the charity can offer, while being carefully designed to maximise independence on board, featuring deck wheelchair lifts, internal lifts to both hulls and spacious accessible facilities throughout.

While the DSA has long been supported by grant-making trusts, alongside valued partners including Scott Bader and, more recently, Airtech, this ambitious project now depends on a number of new corporate partnerships and sponsorships to maintain momentum ahead of a planned Spring 2027 launch.

Mike Wood’s mission is to build a lasting legacy for future generations of disabled sailors, and he is calling on the maritime community to help make it happen.

To find out more about supporting this project, please contact helen@disabledsailors.org.

UK Nacra 15 Class Association Plymouth Demo Day

 

Following on from a successful RYA Youth Nationals, on Sunday April 12th we welcomed 10 young sailors from across the South West to test sail a Nacra 15 on Plymouth Sound.

There was a fresh breeze and blue skies as we took the first 5 sailors out in the morning. Two Nacra 15s with experienced sailors demonstrated their capabilities and speed before the young sailors had a go crewing with many trapezing for the first time.

We welcomed five more sailors for the afternoon. With a slightly gentler breeze they were able to crew, fly the spinnaker and even helm the Nacra.

Maddie Jinks, BSYT Nacra 15 sailor commented:

"It was great to see sailors coming from a range of boats keen to try out the Nacra 15 and I'm looking forward to watch them progress through their sailing career. The boats are really fast, challenging and fun to sail. We have a hub of boats based in Plymouth and are really exited to be hosting the worlds this summer."

If you missed this opportunity and would like to try out a Nacra 15 there is another demo day at Weston Sailing Club (Southampton) on Saturday 18th April. Contact nacra15uk@gmail.com for more details or to book on!

The Nacra 15 is the official World Sailing Youth Multihull, a 15ft version of the Olympic Nacra 17, creating a clear pathway for those with Olympics aspirations.

The UK fleet race and train all year round, with regular participation at International events. We are proud to be hosting the Nacra 15 World Championships in Plymouth this summer. Find out more at nacra15worlds.com