Business Details
Your Premier Sailing Destination in Suffolk
Deben Yacht Club, established in 1838, is one of the UK's oldest and most respected sailing institutions. Our club provides a welcoming environment for sailors of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned racers, with a strong emphasis on family-friendly participation. We offer a comprehensive calendar of sailing events, including dinghy and yacht racing, flotillas, and leisure sailing, all supported by a dedicated safety boat team. As an RYA Training Centre affiliated with both the Royal Yachting Association and Paddle UK, we deliver sail training courses for cadets and adults, alongside safety boat certifications.Our facilities include a modern slipway, 21 moorings, and over 30 club dinghies available for hire. We prioritise community engagement, hosting social events, regattas, and winter series to foster camaraderie among members. Our governance structure ensures efficient operations, with experienced officers overseeing training, safety, and event management. With a rich heritage and commitment to innovation, we aim to promote sailing excellence while maintaining accessibility for future generations.
Services
Dinghy Racing
Yacht Racing
Sail Training Courses
Safety Boat Training
Club Boat Hire
Regatta Events
Summer Training
Onboard Safety Courses
Paddle Sports
Social Sailing
Highlights and features
- Established in 1838, we are one of the UK's oldest sailing clubs.
- Affiliated with RYA and Paddle UK for quality assurance.
- Offering sail training and safety courses for all ages.
- Family-friendly environment with diverse sailing events.
- Access to over 30 club dinghies and modern facilities.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association
- Paddle UK
What people say
Great facilities
Friendly members
Excellent training
Diverse events
Beautiful location
Services
Sail Training Courses
We provide RYA-certified sail training for cadets and adults, covering beginner to advanced competencies. Our courses focus on practical skills, safety protocols, and race techniques. Participants gain hands-on experience using club dinghies and benefit from expert instruction by qualified trainers.
Club Boat Hire
Members can hire over 30 club dinghies, including Toppers, Lasers, and Wayfarers, for races and leisure sailing. No charge applies for cadets or students. Boats are available during club events with safety boat coverage, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all users.
Dinghy Racing
Our calendar features competitive dinghy racing series and regattas, supported by safety boats. Events cater to various skill levels, with handicap systems ensuring fair competition. Participants benefit from professional race management and well-maintained facilities.
Safety Boat Training
We offer safety boat training for members, focusing on emergency response, rescue techniques, and event support. Courses are led by experienced instructors and align with RYA standards, ensuring participants develop critical safety management skills.
Regatta Events
Our flagship regattas, including the annual Regatta Week, attract sailors regionally and nationally. Events combine competitive racing with social activities, fostering community spirit. Comprehensive organisation and safety measures ensure memorable experiences for participants and spectators alike.
People
Thomas Yeung
Commodore
Thomas Yeung, Commodore since 2025, leads Deben Yacht Club with decades of sailing expertise. He oversees strategic direction, member engagement, and event coordination, ensuring the club maintains its reputation for excellence and inclusivity.
David Kemp
Paddle Sports Coordinator
David Kemp manages paddle sports activities at DYC, promoting safe and enjoyable participation. With extensive experience in water sports, he organises events and ensures equipment and training meet high standards for all members.
Commodore Thomas Yeung
Safety Boat Bosun
Responsible for maintaining the club's safety boats, including two RIBs and a displacement vessel. Ensures all safety equipment is operational, supporting racing and events with reliable emergency response capabilities.
Honorary Secretary
Administrative Lead
The Honorary Secretary manages club governance, constitutional matters, and administrative operations. Provides essential support to members and ensures compliance with regulatory and organisational standards.
Membership Secretary
Membership Coordinator
Oversees membership administration, including space allocation in dinghy parks and pontoons. Acts as the primary contact for prospective members, ensuring a smooth onboarding process and addressing member inquiries.
Questions
What sailing courses do you offer?
We provide RYA-certified sail training for cadets and adults, covering beginner to advanced levels, alongside safety boat courses.
How can I join the club?
Contact our membership secretary for details on joining procedures, membership categories, and available benefits.
Are there boat hire options available?
Members can hire over 30 club dinghies, including Toppers and Lasers, during events with safety boat coverage.
What events are held annually?
Our calendar includes regattas, winter series races, flotillas, and social events like Regatta Week and winter walks.
