Business Details
Premier Sailing Club on the Solent Coast
Established to promote sailing and watersport activities on the Solent, Hill Head Sailing Club offers a comprehensive range of on-water experiences for all skill levels. As a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Training Centre and Onboard Access Centre, we provide structured sailing lessons, youth powerboating courses, and stand-up paddleboarding tasters. Our active racing programme includes dinghy and cruiser events, while recreational sessions cater to casual sailors seeking confidence-building coaching. The club hosts regular social gatherings and maintains a family-friendly atmosphere, welcoming both local residents and visitors to the Fareham area. With dedicated instructors and safety-certified equipment, we prioritise accessible, high-quality maritime education.Our facilities include a clubhouse at Cliff Road, Hill Head, offering panoramic views of the Solent. Through monthly new members' evenings, we encourage community engagement and lifelong participation in watersports. The club's calendar features seasonal racing series, training courses, and social events designed to foster camaraderie among members. Our commitment to safety and skill development aligns with RYA standards, ensuring participants receive professional instruction. Whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced sailor, our programmes accommodate diverse interests and abilities.
Services
Sailing Lessons
Dinghy Racing
Kayaking Hire
Powerboating Courses
SUP Tasters
RYA Training
Social Events
Youth Programmes
Cruiser Racing
Coached Sessions
Highlights and features
- RYA-certified instructors deliver professional sailing training
- Community-focused approach with monthly new members' evenings
- Diverse programme including racing, recreational sailing, and SUP
- Family-friendly environment for all ages and skill levels
- Strategically located on the renowned Solent sailing waters
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association
Services
Sailing Lessons
Our RYA-certified sailing lessons cater to all ages and abilities, from complete beginners to experienced sailors seeking advanced skills. Professional instructors use modern dinghies and safety equipment to deliver structured courses. Participants gain confidence through progressive training that covers essential techniques and safety procedures.
Dinghy Racing
Competitive dinghy racing events run throughout the season, including regular race series and special events. The programme accommodates various classes and skill levels, with coaching support available for racers wanting to improve performance. Social racing evenings encourage friendly competition among members.
RYA Training
As an RYA Training Centre, we offer official courses covering sailing, powerboating, and safety certifications. Our curriculum includes youth powerboat qualifications, first aid training, and instructor-led sessions that meet industry standards for maritime competence and safety.
SUP Tasters
Stand-up paddleboarding taster sessions provide accessible water-based activity for all ages. These introductory lessons focus on basic techniques, safety, and enjoyment of the Solent waters. Equipment hire and guided sessions available for casual users and groups.
Social Events
Regular social gatherings create community spirit among members, featuring themed evenings, racing after-parties, and seasonal celebrations. The calendar includes both formal events and casual meetups, fostering connections between sailors of all experience levels.
People
Tim Johnson
Commodore
Tim leads the club's strategic direction with extensive sailing experience and RYA-certified instruction background. He oversees operations and community engagement initiatives.
Ali West
Chief Sailing Instructor
Ali coordinates training programmes with RYA-certified expertise, delivering sailing lessons and youth development courses. She ensures instructional standards meet national requirements.
Dan Wills
RYA Principal
Dan maintains the club's RYA Training Centre status, overseeing instructor qualifications and programme compliance with national sailing education standards.
John Wardale
Honorary Harbour Master
John manages water safety operations and facility maintenance, ensuring safe access to Solent waters for all club activities and vessel operations.
Emily Da Costa
Honorary Secretary
Emily handles administrative operations and member communications, coordinating events and maintaining club records with organisational expertise.
Questions
What sailing qualifications can I obtain at Hill Head?
As an RYA Training Centre, we offer sailing certifications, powerboating courses, and safety qualifications for all ages and experience levels.
Are there family-friendly sailing options available?
Yes, our family-friendly programmes include youth courses, supervised sessions, and social events suitable for all ages at our Hill Head location.
How do I join the club's racing events?
Members can participate in our regular racing series and special events. Newcomers receive guidance to help them start competitive sailing.
What safety measures are in place for training sessions?
All training follows RYA safety standards with certified instructors, modern equipment, and mandatory lifejacket use during water activities.
Can non-members try sailing activities?
Yes, we offer taster sessions and equipment hire for visitors. Monthly new members' evenings provide opportunities to experience club facilities.
What other watersports are available besides sailing?
We provide stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and powerboating activities alongside our sailing programmes at the Solent location.
