Getting kitted out - part 3

Skill Factor

If you can’t sail or haven’t sailed for some years then you might like to consider some lessons. During the summer Ardleigh offer some basic sail training courses run by members for members. Courses get booked up quickly so get please your names down in advance. See Training or New to Sailing?

Alternatively we have close links with Alton Water near Brantham (IP9 2RY) www.altonwater.co.uk. They offer a wide selection of training courses and being RYA affiliated you get the very best in tuition. They have a large selection of boats that you can hire under supervision to see which suits you best.

Lastly, talk to other club members. There are plenty of very competent sailors who would be only too willing to take you out on the water - whether in their own boat or one of the club's.

Summary

This article is not aimed at being a definitive guide to what you need - other than the obligatory buoyancy aid. The rest is all optional and something you can buy and improve as you go along. My point is that sailing does not need to be expensive. Buy what you need, take as much advice as you can. Ultimately you can have great fun in a £200 Mirror dinghy dressed in an old tee-shirt, shorts, your buoyancy-aid and a pair of pumps.

Ardleigh is a friendly club where you can enjoy safe sailing in a real family atmosphere. If you want to get more from your membership there’s only one real way - that’s to get out there and have a bit of fun. Messing about in boats makes you a more competent and confident sailor - an outdoor skill that can be passed down the generations.

Andy Mumford - Vice Commodore

PS - don't forget the sun cream!