Business Details
Your Premier Sailing Destination in Felixstowe
Established on the mouth of the River Deben in Suffolk, Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club provides a dynamic hub for sailing, powerboating, and rowing enthusiasts. Our facilities include two dinghy parks, outboard storage, a modern clubhouse with catering services, and a dedicated training centre offering RYA-certified courses for all skill levels. We host weekly dinghy racing, national championships, and special events like the New Year's Day Race, fostering a vibrant community for sailors. Our youth programs and adult training schemes ensure accessible learning opportunities, while our cruising section organizes regional and international sailing expeditions. With a focus on safety, expertise, and inclusivity, we cater to both competitive racers and leisure sailors.Our team of experienced instructors and volunteers maintains industry-standard equipment and promotes sustainable practices on the water. The club's strategic location allows sailing at all tide states, with challenging sandbanks and scenic river routes enhancing the experience. We prioritize member engagement through social events, volunteer recognition, and collaborative committee structures. Our RYA-approved training centre delivers taster sessions, beginner courses, and advanced racing instruction, ensuring progression pathways for all ages. Through community partnerships and charity initiatives like Barts Bash, we contribute to broader sailing accessibility and environmental stewardship.
Services
Sailing Courses
Dinghy Hire
Racing Events
Youth Training
Venue Hire
Cruising Expeditions
Powerboat Instruction
RYA Certification
Event Catering
Boat Storage
Highlights and features
- We offer RYA-certified sailing courses for all skill levels from beginner to advanced.
- Our experienced instructors use industry-standard equipment for safe and effective training.
- We host nationally recognized racing events including Firefly Nationals and RS200 championships.
- Our youth sailing programs provide progression pathways for young sailors aged 8-25.
- We maintain modern facilities including a professional galley and accessible dinghy parks.
Associations and certifications
- RYA Approved Training Centre
What people say
Fantastic events
Professional instructors
Welcoming atmosphere
Excellent facilities
Beautiful location
Services
Sailing Courses
Our RYA-certified courses cater to all ages and abilities, from beginner taster sessions to advanced racing techniques. Professional instructors use modern equipment to teach sailing fundamentals, safety procedures, and competitive strategies. Courses include adult improvers, youth development schemes, and specialized modules for spinnaker handling and performance sailing.
Dinghy Racing
Weekly evening races and special events attract diverse classes including Lasers, RS400s, and Dart 18s. The club hosts national championships and traditional races like the Long Distance Race. Temporary memberships allow visiting sailors to participate in competitive events with full access to race management and support services.
Youth Sailing
Structured RYA Stage courses develop young sailors aged 8-16 through progressive skill-building. The program includes beginner taster days, intermediate skill development, and advanced racing preparation. Small class sizes and specialized equipment ensure safe, engaging learning experiences for all ability levels.
Cruising Expeditions
Organized cruises explore the River Deben, Suffolk coast, and international destinations including Holland and France. The program accommodates yachts and motorboats with planned itineraries to popular marinas and historic ports. Experienced captains provide route guidance and local knowledge for safe, enjoyable voyages.
Venue Hire
The two-storey clubhouse offers flexible event space with panoramic river views. Facilities include a licensed bar, professional catering kitchen, and changing rooms with hot showers. The venue accommodates weddings, corporate events, and private functions with capacity for 100+ guests.
People
Joe Read
Rear Commodore
Experienced sailing administrator with 15+ years of committee service, overseeing club operations and strategic development.
Josh Fisk
Sailing Captain
Certified RYA instructor and race management specialist organizing competitive events and training programs for club members.
Alan Rutterford
Training Centre Principal
Lead instructor with 20+ years of experience delivering RYA-certified courses for beginners and advanced sailors.
Andy Robinson
Yacht Captain
Cruise organizer coordinating regional and international sailing expeditions with expertise in coastal navigation.
Jane Billing
Event Coordinator
Community engagement specialist managing social events, charity initiatives, and public relations for the club.
Questions
What sailing courses do you offer?
We provide RYA-certified courses from beginner taster sessions to advanced racing techniques for ages 8+.
Can non-members participate in racing events?
Yes, temporary memberships allow visiting sailors to join weekly races and championship events.
Are there youth sailing opportunities?
Our RYA Stage courses develop young sailors aged 8-16 with progressive skill-building and racing preparation.
What cruising options are available?
Organized cruises explore the River Deben, Suffolk coast, and international destinations with expert navigation support.
Can I hire dinghies outside training courses?
Dinghy hire options available for experienced sailors with prior club approval and safety briefing.
Do you host private events at the clubhouse?
Our venue accommodates weddings, corporate events, and private functions with catering and riverside views.
