1. Cowes

This is the place to be when it comes to the famous Cowes Week, where thousands of sailors descend on the Isle of Wight to compete in daily competitions and social events. Featuring fireworks, a display from the Red Arrows (who’ll return to the event in 2026) and plenty of welcoming pubs and restaurants, Cowes is the place to be for everyone in the British sailing community.

Find out more at cowesweek.co.uk

2. Falmouth

Whether it’s high-society regattas or entrepreneurial smugglers, Cornwall’s an intrinsic part of sailing life. In Falmouth, everyone from experienced sea-dogs to complete novices can adventure in the world’s third-largest natural harbour. Fancy a longer trip? Falmouth’s a great starting point for a sail to the Isles of Scilly. Or, to sharpen your skills, take a look at some of the local sailing clubs’ courses.

Find out more at falmouth.co.uk

3. St Kilda

St Kilda is a remote island in the Atlantic Ocean, more than 40 miles off the coast of Scotland. Want to visit the scenic archipelago? Sailors must first get to the Outer Hebrides. This challenging journey is one for the more experienced, with the distance alone daunting for some, but the magic of the remote isle, first settled over four thousand years ago, lies in its wild beauty.

Find out more at classic-sailing.com

4. Weymouth

This seaside town has been a top travel destination for us Brits for a good reason. With a beautiful beach and prime location on the Jurassic Coast, Dorset has plenty to keep you occupied in between your nautical adventures. What’s on our radar? A local sailing club that offers sample experiences to encourage newbies, and boat tuition to get you to grips with a new vessel with minimal fuss.

Find out more at weymouthsailing.co.uk

5. Ullswater

The first lake in our list, Ullswater is the perfect location to experience smaller-scale sailing in a safe environment. With its tranquil water with a stunning view of the Lake District, there’s plenty of experiences over at the Ullswater Sailing School, including boat rentals, and guided routes across the beautiful and placid body of water.

Find out more at ullswatersailingschool.org

6. Dale, Pembrokeshire

This pretty seaside village is the perfect place for sailors, with the Milford Marina right on the doorstep of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park – the only coastal National Park in the UK. Offering a grand waterway perfect for all abilities, berthing at Milford Marina gives you easy access to 22 miles of sheltered, tranquil waters.

Find out more at milfordmarina.com

7. Southampton

Southampton is a great place to get to grips with the technical aspects of sailing. There’s a wide variety of rental options from the local sailing club, plus a thriving social scene. And with easy access to The Solent and a reasonable sail from the Isle of Wight, it’s also a great alternative for anyone looking for a city getaway.

Find out more at southamptonsailingclub.com

8. The Broads

For more of a river experience, The Broads is the destination for you. With centuries of rich sailing tradition in its unique wherries, the sailors of the community are well-prepared to show off the beautiful nature of the national park. Trust us – this is the place to head for sailing in the midst of outstanding natural beauty.

Find out more at visitthebroads.co.uk

9. Portsmouth

As a traditional naval city, Portsmouth has long-established sailing traditions and communities. The perfect UK destination to immerse yourself in sailing culture, Portsmouth Sailing Club is also linked with the local university. Offering many social gatherings, this coastal city is a great option for any younger nautical enthusiasts.

Find out more at portsmouthsc.co.uk

10. Maldon

Just 90 minutes outside of London, Maldon is home to a growing maritime community. Suited best for smaller dinghies, it’s perfect for a quick weekend away from city life with its many independent shops, bars and restaurants. After a warm welcome and relaxed atmosphere? Maldon Yacht Club’s the one for you, a small but thriving club at the end of the promenade.

Find out more at visitmaldon.co.uk

To see your company in any upcoming features email editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

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1. Sunsail Travelopia

Wake up to a new beach view every day, spend your afternoons kayaking across blue lagoons, snorkel around colourful corals and sample the best local cuisine at a different restaurant every night. Experience the thrill of heeling off the Seychelles’ jungle-topped Mahé Island or catching the occasional Mediterranean mistral as you sail along Dubrovnik’s fortified shores.

Sailing with Sunsail gives you the freedom to explore. With over 20 destinations worldwide, there is a sailing holiday for first-time adventurers, seasoned explorers, and everyone in between.

A perfect choice for families, couples and friends, skippered holidays allow you to be as hands-on as you like, or let your experienced skipper take the helm leaving you to relax; it’s completely up to you.

Find out more at sunsail.co.uk

2. GJW Direc

GJW Direct have been providing specialist boat insurance for 193 years and are hugely respected throughout the marine world. While traditional in terms of valuing customer service, GJW Direct lead the way when it comes to harnessing technology with a state-of-the-art website which includes the MyBoat portal, the digital boat management system and safety equipment reminder service which helps you organise your life afloat.

MyBoat is free to sign up to, giving you access to news, views, tips and weather. What’s more, GJW Direct insurance customers gain access to exclusive offers and discounts from a wide range of top marine brands and chandlery retailers as well as a range of top quality boating magazines.

Safety is paramount while on the water, and the team at GJW Direct collaborate with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, raising awareness of the importance of staying safe at sea.

Find out more at gjwdirect.com

3. Universal Marina

Universal is one of the few independent marinas left on the south coast. Since 1997 Avia Willment has run the business with one single vision of creating a ‘lifestyle destination’, offering a friendly and personal experience where you can unwind.

It’s ideally situated for those wishing to spend less time travelling in the car and more time boating in one of England’s most sought-after destinations. The River Hamble has always been the top base for boating, pleasure or racing. Within minutes you can find natural creeks to fine dining and it’s all on your doorstep.

The marina accommodates up to 450 vessels with a variety of berthing, dry stacking and lifting up to 75 tons.

Leisure facilities include Bistro 8, Mermaids Coffee Shop, kayaking and paddleboard hire/club, jet-ski club and jet-ski docks, charter sail, fishing trips, pilates and sports massage.

Find out more at universalmarina.co.uk

4. Gunwharf Quays

Gunwharf Quays is the only waterfront shopping outlet in the south of the UK. Uniquely positioned in a cultural harbour front location in the heart of Portsmouth, Gunwharf Quays is the area’s leading designer shopping outlet.

Boasting over 90 stores and over 30 restaurants, bars and coffee shops, Gunwharf Quays is a unique and vibrant shopping and leisure destination.

Watch the boats go by as you take in the stunning waterfront view. Why not sail into the marina and make the most of the sales around the centre?

Set right on the beautiful Solent waterfront, it is the ideal place to explore, shop, dine and take in the exciting sights of this historic coastal city.

Find out more at gunwharf-quays.com

5. Seafarer Cruising

With RYA training centres in Greece, Croatia and the UK, Seafarer offers the widest choice of locations where you can learn to sail.

Their practical yacht courses suit all levels. Beginners start with Competent Crew; move up to Day Skipper; and then advanced courses available up to Yachtmaster. Course durations start at two-day weekend and five-to seven-day midweek courses in the UK, Mediterranean courses generally being seven days.

Seafarer’s Beach Club in Greece offers attractive beachfront accommodation with unlimited dinghy sailing and windsurfing, with RYA training offered from beginner up to instructor level.

Seafarer operates summer flotilla sailing holidays in four areas of Greece, as well as Croatia, Montenegro, Turkey and the south of France, plus the Thailand flotilla sailing from Phuket over the winter months. Also on offer are bareboat and skippered charter, plus ‘by the cabin’ charter on larger fully crewed vessels.

Find out more at seafarersailing.co.uk

6. Discovery Group

Discovery Yachts Group build yachts of unrivalled perfection and quality. Discover the six different classes they build, as featured in the Southampton Boat Show.

They exhibited the world-renowned Southerly 480 with her variable draft swing keel; the latest Southerly 540; a custom 58; and the Bluewater 50 Catamaran considered to be an extension of one’s home.

Since the launch of the first Discovery 55 in 1998, their shipyard has collaborated with the best of the best, namely, Ron Holland, Dubois Naval Architects, Stephen Jones and Rob Humphreys all of whom have entirely justified their world-class reputation in yacht design.

The extensive experience and expertise of those driving the design are evident in delivering performance on all points of sailing – tracking well, both up and downwind. Above all, any Discovery is a yacht that looks after her crew when conditions would challenge lesser vessels.

Find out more at discoveryshipyard.com

7. Premier Sailing

Inspired by their award-winning Sail4Macmillan round-Britain cruise, Premier Sailing are launching The Capitals Race in August 2022. For The Capitals Race, a fleet of identical Sigma 38 racing yachts will race around the British Isles, visiting each capital city of the UK, in four week-long stages.

Whether it’s the grand departure under Tower Bridge, navigating the Hebridean islands, the vast Atlantic waters around Ireland, or the cliffs of the south coast, The Capitals Race has something for everyone.

With a maximum crew of eight people per yacht, the pre-race training allows everyone aboard to fill multiple roles, from helming to navigating, all under the supervision of an experienced racing skipper. There is always something to do, and nobody is left out.

It is a full-on seagoing challenge, at a reasonable cost, and without demanding too much of your time. You can take on as many stages as you wish, or as few, and enjoy the experience of being part of the crew of a competitive racing yacht.

Find out more at premiersailing.co.uk

8. Collingwood Boat Builders

Collingwood Boat Builders is the largest family-owned canal boat builder in the UK, with over 40 years’ of experience and knowledge.  

The Sailaway range, made for the DIY enthusiast, is the perfect solution for anyone looking to invest in a canal boat. Become involved in the building process and choose what amount of involvement you desire to have in your project.

Affordable luxury living, with a fully fitted range, is the ideal solution for someone who is looking to walk straight into a home, with interiors beautifully designed and pre-fitted ready for you to enjoy. There is also a range of stock boats available immediately for delivery.

Collingwood will provide you with a boat of distinction, an investment, a way of life, to turn your dream into reality. 

Find out more at collingwoodboatbuilders.co.uk

9. United Kingdom Sailing Academy

UKSA is one of the world’s leading maritime training providers and their waterfront base on the Isle of Wight is the perfect setting to learn in. An RYA and MCA Centre of Excellence, UKSA offers a full range of professional maritime training, launching long-term careers in a growing industry with plenty of opportunities for employment.

UKSA’s flagship programme, the Superyacht Cadetship, has been designed for 18 to 25-year-olds and is a credible alternative to university for those looking to train as officers. The structured programme equips graduates with a strong foundation of knowledge and a realistic understanding of the superyacht industry.

Cadets ‘earn while they learn’ with periods of paid employment onboard superyachts interspersed with further training at UKSA. Growing numbers of young people are signing up thanks to the unrivalled support, all-inclusive facilities and ongoing industry guidance.

Find out more at uksa.org

10. Kraken Travel

Born from the desire to find sailing experiences that were more than the usual taverna hopping summer holidays, Kraken Travel was founded by CEO Henry Burkitt in 2017.

Kraken Travel source the most incredible nautical adventures from around the world, connecting adventure seekers with hand-picked travel operators. Using unparalleled insight, knowledge and network, they find the most innovative and unusual itineraries out there, listing them all in one place so that you to find your ideal ocean-going experience.

By working with local operators, they can ensure that you are always in safe hands. With local knowledge of the waters and surrounding landscapes, the skippers, crew and guides will make sure you get the most out of your nautical adventure, all the while learning about the natural environments you sail in and the communities that sustain them.

Find out more at kraken.travel

To see your company in any upcoming features we are arranging please email laura@hurstmediacompany.co.uk or editorial@hurstmediacompany.co.uk

The post Get on board these 10 top companies for all your sailing needs appeared first on Checklists.

For a life less ordinary

DISCOVERY YACHTS GROUP build yachts of unrivaled perfection and quality. Discover the six different classes we now build at the Southampton Boat Show. We are exhibiting the world renowned Southerly 480 with her varible draft swing keel; the latest Southerly 540; a custom 58; and the Bluewater 50 Catamaran considered to be an extension of one’s home.

Visit us on the water 13-22 September and discover for yourself what all the fuss is about.

Southampton Boat Show: 13 September – 22 September 2019

Discovery Yachts Group
Yacht Haven
Lymington Hampshire
SO41 3QD
United Kingdom
02380 86 55 55
sales@discoveryyachtsgroup.com quoting ‘timetodiscover’ discoveryyachtsgroup.com

Owning a yacht without hassle!

IF YOU’RE A REGULAR CHARTERER and have considered purchasing your own yacht but don’t want the hassle or ongoing costs, then you should consider the Yacht Ownership programmes from Sunsail and The Moorings.

Established in 1969, The Moorings was far ahead of its time, creating the ownership programme before it was regular practice. This year, The Moorings turns 50. It celebrates this achievement just ahead of its sister company, Sunsail, established in the UK in 1974.

Owners can use either their own yacht or sister ships for up to 12 weeks a year at worldwide destinations. The Moorings and Sunsail will take care of your yacht, including maintenance and insurance.

You have the choice between two programmes:

• The Guaranteed Income programme

You pay 100% of the yacht cost at the start, receive the title and an income of 9% per annum (8% in Europe). You could choose to buy with cash or instead pick a competitive marine mortgage from a financial partner. At the end of the approximately five-year programme, you can choose to keep your yacht, sell it or trade it in for a new one and start the programme again.

• The Option to Purchase programme

The buyer is offered a substantial discount off the retail price of the yacht, instead of receiving an income during the programme term. The title remains with The Moorings or Sunsail, but your investment can be secured with a lien. The title may be transferred to you at the end of the contract after a 20% title payment or alternatively you can choose to take a guaranteed 20% cash buyback to simply walk away.

Visit the team at the Southampton Boat Show! Stand 156A
sunsailyachtownership.co.uk
023 9222 2225

Learn navigation skills ready for 2020

“I NEVER KNEW you could have so much fun at six miles an hour!” “Brilliant – see you again soon!” These two comments reflect the Premier approach to providing RYA courses, Christian sailing holidays and the award-winning sail4macmillan.com round-Britain trip.

As autumn draws near and thoughts drift towards occupying winter evenings, join us to learn navigation skills as you plan for the blue skies and warm seas of your future sailing adventure. The full range of shore- based courses is held at venues throughout the country including London, Chelmsford, Lightwater, Harpenden and more.

The low customer to instructor ratio ensures Premier courses enjoy superb pass rates.

If you fancy some late season sailing, then Premier’s main sailing base is located in the beautiful village of North Fambridge, just 50 minutes from Liverpool Street Station…where you will enjoy the best on-board food afloat!

premiersailing.co.uk | 01621 744902
colin@premiersailing.co.uk

Specialist boat insurers for 193 years

GJW DIRECT have been providing specialist boat insurance for 193 years and are hugely respected throughout the marine world. While traditional in terms of valuing customer service, GJW Direct lead the way when it comes to harnessing technology with a state-of-the-art website which includes the MyBoat portal, the digital boat management system and safety equipment reminder service which helps you organise your life afloat.

MyBoat is FREE to sign up to, giving you access to news, views, tips and weather. What’s more, GJW Direct insurance customers gain access to exclusive offers and discounts from a wide range of top marine brands and chandlery retailers as well as a range of top quality boating magazines.

Safety is paramount while on the water, and the team at GJW Direct have collaborated with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), raising awareness of the importance of staying safe at sea. GJW Direct is an official supporter of the RNLI’s Lifejacket Clinics where Community Safety Volunteers provide safety advice on a range of topics and carry out free lifejacket inspections. With research showing as many as 30% of lifejackets brought in for inspection would not have worked in an emergency, these clinics can help save someone’s life.

Boating provides you with a world of opportunities, whether that be on a yacht, powerboat, narrowboat or jet-ski, which GJW Direct help you harness to the full. Choose a GJW Direct policy to have confidence in your marine insurance, leaving you free to enjoy your precious leisure time on the water in safety.

gjwdirect.com

An independent marina on the south coast – a lifestyle destination for those who love boating

UNIVERSAL IS ONE of the few independent marinas left on the south coast. Since 1997 Avia Willment has run the business with one single vision of creating a ‘lifestyle destination’, offering a friendly and personal experience where you can unwind.

It’s ideally situated for those wishing to spend less time travelling in the car and more time boating in one of England’s most sought-after destinations. The River Hamble has always been the No.1 base for boating, pleasure or racing. Within minutes you can find natural creeks to fine dining – and it’s all on our doorstep.

The marina, surrounded by woodlands and salt marshes, is a unique environment which separates us from the rest. As well as enjoying a multitude of leisure activities at Universal, at its heart is a thriving passionate community of over 200 people. From IT specialists to charity sailing centres and much more: marine engineers – T S Marine & Signature Marine; valeting -Maritime Yacht Services; rigging – Petersons Rigging; sail making – Doyle Sails; and Pascoe’s Bespoke Superyacht Tenders.

The marina accommodates up to 450 vessels with a variety of berthing , dry stacking and lifting up to 75 tons.

Leisure facilities include Bistro 8, Mermaids Coffee Shop, kayaking and paddleboard hire/club, jet-ski club and jet-ski docks, charter sail, fishing trips, pilates and sports massage.

Join our thriving community and relax in our beautiful and tranquil surroundings. Check out our Facebook and Instagram, where we post videos of what’s going on here.
info@universalmarina.co.uk | 01489 574272

Learn or improve your sailing with Seafarer

WITH RYA TRAINING CENTRES in Greece, Croatia and the UK, Seafarer offers the widest choice of locations where you can learn to sail.

Our practical yacht courses suit all levels. Beginners start with Competent Crew; move up to Day Skipper; and then there are advanced courses available up to Yachtmaster. Course durations start at two-day weekend and five-to seven-day midweek courses in the UK, Mediterranean courses generally being seven days.

Seafarer’s Beach Club in Greece offers attractive beachfront accommodation with unlimited dinghy sailing and windsurfing, with RYA training offered from beginner up to instructor level.

Seafarer operates summer flotilla sailing holidays in four areas of Greece, as well as Croatia, Montenegro, Turkey and the South of France, plus the Thailand flotilla sailing from Phuket over the winter months. Also on offer are bareboat and skippered charter, plus ‘by the cabin’ charter on larger fully crewed vessels.

For more details please see our website or call us
seafarersailing.co.uk | 020 8324 3118

The Royal Society of Marine Artists: 2019 Exhibition

ON DISPLAY WILL be an astonishing variety of maritime subjects and paintings of the sea as the site of historic battles and contemporary shipbuilding, a playground for sport and leisure and home to many forms of wildlife.

Generations of artists have sought inspiration from the sea and that tradition continues today. Our annual exhibition will feature some 400 works, by RSMA members and a new generation of artists who have discovered the fascination of the sea. These works, in a wide range of styles, sizes and media, capture the many moods of the sea and the coast and offer something to delight everyone.

During the exhibition members will be giving free demonstrations in the gallery. We are offering free entry for two when you present this page at the gallery desk (normal price £8) on 10-19 October. 

mallgalleries.org.uk
020 7930 6844
Mall Galleries, The Mall, London SW1

WIN a shopping voucher for Gunwharf Quays –Worth £500!

Enter Here

GUNWHARF QUAYS is the South’s only waterfront shopping outlet. Located on Portsmouth’s historic harbour, you can shop at over 90 famous brands, dine in a choice of over 30 restaurants, bars and cafes; while watching the boats go by as you take in the stunning waterfront location. Why not sail into our marina and make the most of the sales around the centre at up to 60% off RRP? 

gunwharf-quays.com/times
023 9283 6700

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