Business Details
Welcome to Grafham Water Sailing Club
Grafham Water Sailing Club is a family-friendly sailing community established in Cambridgeshire, offering diverse water-based activities for all skill levels. We provide RYA-certified training in sailing, windsurfing, powerboating, and wingsurfing, alongside structured racing programs and social sailing events. Our inclusive environment welcomes members and visitors year-round, with facilities including a three-storey clubhouse, boat hire services, and dedicated youth development programs.The club promotes accessibility through adaptive training options and non-sailing activities, maintaining strong ties to national and international competitive sailing circuits. Our experienced instructors and volunteer teams ensure safe, enjoyable experiences while upholding rigorous safety standards and environmental stewardship practices.
Services
Sailing Courses
Racing Events
Boat Hire
Windsurfing
Youth Training
Highlights and features
- We are an official RYA Recognised Training Centre with certified instructors
- Our 1,600-acre reservoir offers consistent wind conditions for optimal sailing
- We provide inclusive sailing opportunities for all ages and abilities
- Our club has produced Olympic and America's Cup competitors
- We offer year-round sailing with seven-day weekly access
Associations and certifications
- RYA Recognised Training Centre
What people say
Excellent training facilities
Family-friendly atmosphere
Consistent wind conditions
Well-maintained equipment
Professional instructors
Services
Sailing Courses
Our RYA-certified sailing courses cater to all levels from complete beginners to advanced racers. We offer structured progression through RYA stages, with access to modern training boats and experienced instructors. Courses include adult group sessions, youth development programs, and specialized clinics for racing techniques and safety procedures.
Racing Events
Regular racing programs feature handicap and one-design fleet racing every Wednesday and Sunday. We host national championships and international events, with professional race management and support facilities. Our racing calendar includes seasonal series and special events attracting competitors from across the UK and abroad.
Boat Hire
Members can access a fleet of dinghies, windsurfers, and stand-up paddleboards after completing Level 2 training. Our maintained equipment includes modern boats suitable for recreational sailing and racing preparation. Special membership options allow exclusive access to paddleboarding facilities and equipment.
Youth Training
Team Grafham provides sailing development for ages 8-16 with structured progression from basic skills to competitive racing. Our programs include summer camps, half-term clinics, and Saturday sessions focusing on seamanship, race techniques, and boat handling in various conditions.
Windsurfing
Dedicated windsurfing areas with equipment hire and training programs for all abilities. We offer beginner courses using club boards and rigs, with progression pathways to advanced techniques. The reservoir's consistent wind conditions create ideal environments for skill development and recreational sailing.
People
Heather Dance
Club Manager
Experienced sailing professional managing day-to-day operations and member services at Grafham Water Sailing Club.
Reece Webb
Training School Principal
RYA-certified instructor overseeing sailing education programs and instructor development at the Recognised Training Centre.
Mark Rushton
Commodore
Elected club leader responsible for strategic direction and representing Grafham Water Sailing Club in regional and national sailing circles.
Matt French
Chief Instructor
Senior sailing coach delivering RYA-certified courses and overseeing instructor team operations at the training centre.
Lisa Davis
Catering Manager
Catering services lead responsible for clubhouse food and beverage operations during main activity periods.
Questions
What sailing qualifications can I obtain at Grafham Water?
We offer RYA Dinghy Sailing, Windsurfing, and Powerboating certifications from beginner to advanced levels.
Can non-members use the sailing facilities?
Visitors can participate in open meetings and day sailing with prior arrangement through our visitor program.
Are there youth sailing programs available?
Team Grafham provides structured training for ages 8-16 with progression from basic skills to competitive racing.
What boat types are supported at the club?
We accommodate dinghies, windsurfers, stand-up paddleboards, day keelboats, and small sailing cruisers.
Does the club host international sailing events?
Yes, we regularly host national championships and international class events including Flying 15 competitions.
What safety training options exist?
RYA Safety Boat courses and powerboat improver sessions develop safety team capabilities for water operations.
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