Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Sailing Club in Suffolk
Pin Mill Sailing Club, established in 1935, is a private members' sailing club located on the River Orwell in Suffolk. With over 90 years of maritime heritage, we provide a vibrant hub for cruising, racing, and social activities. Our experienced committee and dedicated staff ensure members enjoy diverse sailing opportunities, including regattas, barge matches, and international cruises. The club promotes nautical excellence through its bursary scheme and hosts regular social events, fostering a strong community spirit.Facilities include kayak hire, private event spaces, and a welcoming bar with seasonal opening hours. We maintain strong ties with regional sailing organisations and offer comprehensive support for both competitive and leisure sailors.
Services
Sailing Events
Kayak Hire
Private Hire
Barge Racing
Social Events
Sailing Bursaries
Mooring Facilities
Bar Services
Details
- Year established: 1935
Highlights and features
- We offer sailing events for all skill levels on the River Orwell
- Our club promotes social interaction among sailors through regular events
- Access to the beautiful River Orwell with international destinations
- We provide kayak hire and bursary support for sailing development
- Private event hire available in our historic riverside venue
Services
Sailing Events
We organise competitive racing and leisure cruising events on the River Orwell. Our calendar includes regattas, barge matches, and international races. Members enjoy structured programmes with handicap racing for cruisers and special events like the annual Smacks and Working Boats Race.
Private Hire
Our riverside clubhouse accommodates private events for members. We offer flexible spaces for parties, meetings, and memorials with catering options. Hire fees vary by duration and include bar access with additional charges for BBQ facilities.
Kayak Hire
Members can hire club kayaks for recreational use on the River Orwell. This service requires prior booking and includes safety equipment. Regular maintenance ensures safe operation throughout the sailing season.
Sailing Bursaries
Our bursary scheme supports members' sailing development. We reimburse up to 50% (max 200) for approved on-water courses with local providers. This initiative promotes skill development and active participation in sailing activities.
Social Events
We host regular social gatherings including themed parties, weekly prize draws, and seasonal celebrations. Notable events include Halloween parties, Sunday lunches, and the annual nautical photography competition that foster community engagement.
People
Lucie Breadman
Commodore
Lucie Breadman leads the club as Commodore, overseeing strategic direction and representing members' interests. With extensive sailing experience, she ensures the club maintains its maritime traditions while embracing modern sailing practices.
Sarah Markham
Hon. Secretary
Sarah Markham manages administrative operations as Hon. Secretary. She coordinates club communications, membership administration, and event logistics. Her organisational skills ensure smooth day-to-day running of the sailing club.
Terry Pey
Hon. Treasurer
Terry Pey oversees financial management as Hon. Treasurer. He maintains fiscal responsibility for club operations, budgeting, and financial reporting. His expertise ensures sustainable financial practices for long-term stability.
Simon Ruffles
Hon. Sailing Secretary
Simon Ruffles coordinates sailing activities as Hon. Sailing Secretary. He organises racing programmes, event entries, and sailing logistics. His technical knowledge enhances the quality of sailing experiences for all members.
Jill Hodgson
Hon. Hire Secretary
Jill Hodgson manages venue hire arrangements as Hon. Hire Secretary. She coordinates private bookings, explains hire conditions, and ensures compliance with safety regulations. Her customer focus enhances event experiences for members.
Questions
Where is the club located?
We are situated on the south bank of the River Orwell, 6 miles from Ipswich in Suffolk (IP9 1JP).
What sailing events do you offer?
Our calendar includes regattas, barge matches, handicap racing, and international cruising opportunities on the River Orwell.
Can non-members use facilities?
Visitors are welcome during bar hours and can join events as guests of members. Moorings are available on a first-come basis.
How to hire the clubhouse?
Members can book private events through our Hire Secretary. Fees start at £55 including bar access, with additional charges for BBQ facilities.
What social activities exist?
We host themed parties, weekly prize draws, Sunday lunches, photography competitions, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.
