Business Details
Sailing Excellence on the River Thames
Established in 1885, Upper Thames Sailing Club & R Y A Training Centre is a family-friendly sailing community located on the River Thames. We provide RYA-accredited training for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced sailors, using a modern fleet of club boats including Optimists, Toppers, and Wayfarers. Our historic reach between Bourne End and Marlow Lock offers year-round sailing with Wednesday evening and Sunday races, complemented by casual sailing opportunities.The club hosts prestigious events like Bourne End Week, a four-day regatta dating back to 1887, and fosters a vibrant social atmosphere through clubhouse gatherings and themed events. With British Youth Sailing recognition, we prioritise safety and skill development under qualified instructors while maintaining a welcoming environment for individuals, couples, and families.
Services
Sailing Training
Racing Events
Club Boat Hire
Social Membership
RYA Courses
Highlights and features
- We offer RYA-accredited training for all skill levels
- Our family-friendly environment welcomes sailors of all ages
- Established in 1885 with a rich maritime heritage
- We maintain a modern fleet of diverse training boats
- Hosts Bourne End Week, a regatta since 1887
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
Services
Sailing Training
Our RYA-certified instructors deliver structured training for all ages and abilities. Beginners progress through StartSail courses while experienced sailors enhance racing techniques. The modern fleet includes Optimists, Toppers, and Wayfarers for diverse learning experiences.
Racing Events
Weekly Wednesday evening and Sunday races run March-December with casual sailing available Saturdays. Annual highlights include the 141-year-old Bourne End Week regatta and competitive handicap fleet racing on the Thames' widest non-tidal stretch.
Club Boat Hire
Members access Wayfarers, OK Dinghies, Fevas, Toppers, and Optimists for personal use. The fleet accommodates both recreational sailing and competitive training needs with easy booking through our online system.
Social Membership
Non-sailing members enjoy riverside clubhouse facilities with regular social events. The venue hosts quiz nights, themed suppers, and seasonal celebrations in a picturesque setting overlooking the River Thames.
RYA Courses
We offer RYA Youth Sailing and Adult Sailing certifications alongside powerboat handling courses. Training includes safety boat operations and first aid qualifications with pathways to instructor certification for active members.
Questions
How can I join Upper Thames Sailing Club?
Visit our website to complete the online membership application. Options exist for sailing, social, and associate memberships with different access levels to club facilities and events.
What training courses do you offer?
We provide RYA-accredited courses for youth and adults, powerboat training, and first aid certifications. StartSail programs help complete beginners learn sailing fundamentals with qualified instructors.
Are non-members allowed to participate in events?
While priority is given to members, selected events like Bourne End Week welcome external participants. Check our event calendar for specific entry requirements and registration details.
What boats are available for hire?
Members can book Wayfarers, OK Dinghies, Fevas, Toppers, and Optimists through our online system. The fleet caters to both recreational sailing and competitive racing training requirements.
Do you host corporate events?
Our riverside clubhouse is available for private functions and corporate bookings. Contact the events coordinator to discuss venue capacity, catering options, and available dates.
What safety measures are in place?
All training follows RYA safety standards with qualified instructors. Club safety boats operate during events, and first aid trained personnel are present at major regattas and training sessions.
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