Royal Windermere Yacht Club

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Royal Windermere Yacht Club – RYA Training Centre on Lake Windermere

Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about our sailing, powerboat and shore-based courses. If you need further information, please contact the Club directly — we’re always happy to help.

What Should I Bring?

Watersports are outdoor activities, so please come prepared for the weather conditions on Lake Windermere.

Essential items:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket

  • Warm layers 

  • Old trainers or sailing boots (that can get wet)

  • Hat and gloves (even in spring/autumn)

  • Sunscreen (UV reflects strongly off water)

  • Reusable water bottle

For half-day or full-day courses:
Participants are responsible for bringing their own lunch and drinks.

Course specific joining instructions will be provided following booking.

Do I Need to Be Physically Fit?

There are no specific fitness requirements for our courses. However:

  • You must declare any relevant medical conditions, injuries or disabilities on the medical section of the booking form.

  • If you are unsure about your ability to participate, please consult your GP prior to the course.

  • If anyone in your party has a disability or additional needs, please contact the Club in advance so we can discuss appropriate arrangements.

Our aim is to make sailing accessible wherever reasonably possible.

How Safe Is Sailing?

Your safety is our highest priority.

While outdoor watersports naturally involve some risk, we actively manage and minimise those risks through:

  • Qualified, experienced instructors

  • RYA-approved training standards

  • Safety boat cover (using high-spec Humber RIBs where applicable)

  • Structured safety briefings

  • Ongoing dynamic risk assessments

All instructors are first aid trained and hold qualifications recognised by the Royal Yachting Association.

We reserve the right to:

  • Modify or cancel activities if conditions are unsafe

  • Adjust sessions to suit weather conditions

  • Remove participants who do not follow safety instructions or whose behaviour places themselves or others at risk

What Is the Minimum Age?

The minimum age for participation is 8 years old.

Supervision of Children

  • Children and young people aged 8–18 must be accompanied by a parent, guardian or carer while on Club premises before and after their session.

  • Please ensure prompt drop-off and collection.

  • If you are delayed, contact the Club as soon as possible.

What Does the Course Cover?

Course content follows the official RYA syllabus, appropriate to the qualification being taken (e.g. Youth Stages, National Sailing Scheme, Powerboat Level 2, Safety Boat, First Aid).

A detailed syllabus is available:

  • On request from the Club

  • Directly from the RYA website

Course durations are designed to allow the average student with the recommended prior experience to complete the syllabus.

However:

  • Some participants may require additional practice before certification can be awarded.

  • Certification is based on demonstrated competence, not simply attendance.

Will I Definitely Receive a Certificate?

Certificates are issued when the required standard is achieved.

Our instructors will:

  • Provide clear feedback

  • Offer guidance on areas for improvement

  • Recommend next steps if further training is needed

If additional sessions are required, we will advise you accordingly.

What Happens in Bad Weather?

Sailing is weather-dependent, but not weather-restricted.

  • Light rain or moderate wind will not usually prevent sessions from running.

  • In strong winds, thunderstorms or unsafe conditions, sessions may be modified, rescheduled or cancelled.

  • Where appropriate, theory-based or shore-based learning may be delivered instead.

Safety decisions are made by the Lead Instructor on the day.

Cancellation by the Customer

Please confirm cancellations in writing as soon as possible.

Refunds are provided in accordance with the following terms:

  • 2 weeks’ notice: 50% refund

  • 1 week’s notice: 25% refund

  • Less than 1 week: No refund

We strongly recommend arranging appropriate personal insurance to cover cancellation or curtailment due to illness or unforeseen circumstances.

Cancellation by the Club

We always aim to run activities as scheduled.

However, if cancellation is necessary due to unforeseen circumstances (including unsafe weather conditions or operational issues), we will:

  • Offer alternative date(s), or

  • Provide a full refund where rescheduling is not possible

Courses may also be cancelled if minimum participant numbers are not met.

Is There Parking Available?

Yes, on-site parking is available at the Club.

Are Changing Facilities Available?

Yes, modern changing rooms and clubhouse facilities are available for course participants, with warm showers and lockers.

Do I Need Previous Experience?

No previous experience is required for beginner courses.

If you are unsure which level is appropriate, please contact us and we will be happy to advise.

How Do I Book?

Courses can be booked online here.

Early booking is strongly recommended, particularly for summer youth weeks and powerboat courses, as places fill quickly.