Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Sailing & Diving Club in Donaghadee
Established in 1970, Donaghadee Sailing Club has evolved into a premier maritime hub on Northern Ireland's east coast. Our modern clubhouse, completed in 2009 following extensive community-funded redevelopment, offers state-of-the-art facilities with panoramic views of Donaghadee Sound. As an RYA-accredited training centre and BSAC-certified diving facility, we provide comprehensive sailing and diving instruction for all ages. Our member-run organisation prioritises accessibility, offering club boats and equipment to members without personal gear. With dedicated junior and adult programmes, social sailing events, and specialist sections like Duck Down Divers and Women on Water, we cater to diverse maritime interests.Our facilities include three training rooms, child-friendly amenities, and event spaces available for hire. The club's historical seahorse emblem and fire basket motif reflect our deep connection to local maritime heritage dating back to the 17th-century harbour. Through active training calendars, competitive racing series, and community events, we continue fostering a vibrant sailing culture for future generations.
Services
Sailing
Diving
RYA Training
Snorkelling
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- RYA and BSAC accredited training facilities
- Family-friendly environment with child-friendly amenities
- Access to club boats for all members
- Active calendar of training and social events
- Community-run organisation with member-focused approach
Associations and certifications
- RYA
- BSAC
Services
Sailing
Our sailing programmes cater to all ages and abilities, from beginners to experienced sailors. Members gain access to club dinghies and receive expert instruction through RYA-certified courses. Regular club racing, regattas, and social sailing events create opportunities for skill development and competitive participation in a supportive environment.
Diving
Duck Down Divers offers BSAC-accredited scuba diving and snorkelling programmes. Our facilities include a commercial rib, nitrox blending equipment, and shore dive access. Members enjoy guided dives, marine biology exploration, and photography opportunities with expert supervision from qualified instructors in the Copeland Islands' waters.
RYA Training
As an RYA-accredited training centre, we deliver structured sailing courses for all levels. Our programmes include beginner certifications, advanced racing techniques, and instructor training. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience using modern training facilities and club boats for comprehensive skill development.
Snorkelling
Our BSAC-certified snorkelling programme introduces participants to coastal marine environments. Guided sessions focus on safety techniques, marine life identification, and environmental awareness. The programme serves as an accessible entry point to underwater activities, with equipment available for member use after basic training.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
We offer stand-up paddle boarding sessions with club-owned boards available post-induction. Members receive instruction from accredited instructors before accessing discounted sessions. This rapidly growing watersport provides fitness benefits while exploring Donaghadee Sound's calm waters, suitable for recreational and competitive participants.
Questions
What sailing opportunities exist for beginners?
We offer RYA-certified beginner courses, access to club dinghies, and social sailing events with expert supervision to develop fundamental skills in a supportive environment.
Are diving facilities available for non-members?
While primarily for members, we offer try dives and introductory snorkelling sessions for non-members interested in our BSAC-certified diving programmes.
What family-friendly amenities does the club provide?
Our facilities include child-friendly spaces with pool tables, Nintendo Wii, baby changing, and dedicated junior sailing programmes for ages 8-16.
How can I access club boats?
Members gain access to club boats after competency training, with no requirement to own personal equipment for participation in sailing activities.
What social events occur annually?
We host themed parties including Halloween events, Friday night BBQs, and the annual Regatta 2025, alongside regular training and competitive sailing calendars.