Business Details
14 Years
experience
Your Trusted Watersports Partner in Gillingham
Established in 2012 following the withdrawal of local council watersports provision, Medway Watersports Centre operates as a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training centre and British Canoeing training centre. Our volunteer-led organisation delivers accessible watersports and adventurous activities across the Medway Towns, with a particular focus on youth development. We hold full licensing from the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority and maintain strong partnerships with local schools and youth organisations. Our mission prioritises equitable water access while fostering physical, intellectual, and social growth among young people. The Trust's heritage connects directly to the River Medway's rich maritime history, including its association with HMS Victory and Chatham Dockyard.Through weekly sessions, group bookings, RYA courses, and grant funding, we sustain our charitable operations while maintaining rigorous safety standards. Our values of respect, community engagement, integrity, and equality underpin all activities. The organisation benefits from a dedicated team of qualified instructors and volunteers who maintain equipment, manage premises, and deliver training programs. Strategic improvements to the Strand slipway, supported by Medway Council, have enhanced launch capabilities. We actively seek new volunteers to support our ongoing mission of making watersports accessible to all.
Services
RYA Courses
Paddle Sports
Sailing Sessions
Group Bookings
Training Programs
Event Hosting
Volunteer Opportunities
Donation Programs
Grant Funding
Youth Development
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We are fully licensed by RYA and AALA with professional instructors
- Our volunteer-led approach ensures community-focused service delivery
- Specialist youth development programs aligned with national standards
- Historic river location with enhanced launch facilities
- Comprehensive safety protocols for all activities
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
- Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA)
- Paddle UK
What people say
Qualified instructors
Great youth programs
Community-focused
Excellent facilities
Volunteer dedication
Services
RYA Courses
Professional Royal Yachting Association-certified sailing instruction for all skill levels. Our qualified instructors deliver structured courses covering safety procedures, navigation, and boat handling. Ideal for individuals and groups seeking formal accreditation in traditional and modern sailing techniques.
Paddle Sports
British Canoeing-affiliated paddlesports instruction and recreational access. We offer equipment hire, guided tours, and skill development sessions for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Sessions accommodate beginners through to experienced paddlers in sheltered and open water environments.
Youth Development
Structured watersports programs designed to build confidence and life skills in young people. Our curriculum combines physical challenges with teamwork exercises, aligned with national youth development standards. Focus on personal growth through adventurous water-based activities.
Group Bookings
Tailored watersports experiences for schools, youth groups, and corporate teams. Includes safety briefings, equipment provision, and instructor support for sailing, paddling, and team-building activities on the River Medway.
Volunteer Training
Comprehensive training for volunteers maintaining boats and supporting events. Covers safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and instructional techniques. Volunteers gain practical experience while supporting community watersports access.
People
Alan Sale
RYA Instructor
Certified RYA instructor with extensive experience in youth sailing development. Specialises in delivering structured training programs that combine technical sailing skills with personal development.
Bob Oakley
Trustee
Senior RYA instructor and stakeholder liaison with over 20 years' experience in watersports management. Focuses on maintaining community partnerships and operational standards.
Derek Zobel
Powerboat Instructor
Dual-qualified RYA Powerboat and Senior Instructor with expertise in advanced boat handling and safety procedures. Trains both recreational users and professional mariners.
Pete Snowdon
Centre Principal
Experienced watersports manager overseeing daily operations and strategic direction. Combines instructional expertise with organisational leadership to maintain service quality and accessibility.
Syd Grinnell
Paddlesports Instructor
Senior paddlesports instructor specialising in British Canoeing award schemes. Develops progressive training pathways for recreational and competitive paddlers in various water conditions.
Questions
What watersports qualifications do you offer?
We provide RYA sailing certifications and British Canoeing paddlesports awards for all levels from beginner to advanced participants.
Can local schools use your facilities?
Yes, we partner with schools for curriculum-based watersports education and extracurricular activities through our AALA-licensed programs.
How can I volunteer with the Trust?
Contact us via email to discuss current volunteering opportunities in instruction, boat maintenance, event organisation, and administrative support.
Are sessions weather dependent?
Activities require suitable weather conditions and adequate water levels due to our tidal location on the River Medway.
What safety measures are in place?
All sessions follow strict safety protocols with qualified instructors, life-saving equipment, and risk assessments meeting RYA and AALA standards.
How is the Trust funded?
We operate through course fees, group bookings, charitable donations, and grant funding while maintaining volunteer-led operations to minimise costs.
