moderate
4 hours
Moderate fitness required, as sailing dinghies involves balance and basic handling skills.
Spend four invigorating hours sailing across Derwentwater with Nichol End Marine. Perfect for families and seasoned sailors alike, this trip blends skill, scenery, and serene waterborne adventure in the heart of England’s Lake District.
For all ages! • Great for groups of all sizes! • Family friendly
4 hours
Derwentwater is ideally situated for a great days sailing. The direction of the lake and the positioning between the mountains, creates excellent sailing conditions that can be enjoyed in a traditional wayfarer, ideal for all the family, or a racing dinghy to test and grow your skills.
Ever popular with children and adults alike, our sailing dinghies are a great way to provide an adventure for the whole family. Experience and prior competence is essential.
Sail around the lake discovering all the beautiful bays and islands and if the conditions are good for landing, stop off at St Herberts, the island featured in the 2016 Swallows and Amazons movie.
Freshly washed and sanitised wetsuits and buoyancy aids are included in your hire fee. We have a wide range of sizes and age ranges available.
If you don't want to wear one of our wetsuits, we'd advise either bringing your own or a change of clothes. Part of the fun of sailing the smaller dinghies is getting wet, so please don't wear, or take on the water, anything that you would mind getting wet or possibly muddy. If you are taking a wayfarer then wetsuits are not necessary but a waterproof/windproof jacket is advisable.
On hot sunny days, we advise bringing along sun tan lotion , sunglasses, a hat and a bottle of water.
Electronics and water do not mix well so please either bring or buy a dry bag or leave your valuables at home. Small dry bags are widely available online or we have a selection available for sale at Nichol End.
Weather can shift quickly on the lake, so a breathable waterproof layer helps keep you comfortable.
Even on overcast days, UV reflection off water increases exposure; sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are must-haves.
Waterproof bags keep cameras and phones safe from splashes and unexpected wet conditions.
Sailing dinghies can cause splashes, so opt for quick-drying clothes or wetsuits provided by Nichol End Marine.
Derwentwater is surrounded by landscapes shaped over millennia and features prominently in local culture and literature, including the classic children's novel "Swallows and Amazons."
Nichol End Marine promotes sustainable use of Derwentwater by maintaining clean equipment and encouraging minimal disturbance to wildlife and habitats.
Protects you from spray and unpredictable weather during your sail.
all specific
Reduces glare reflected off the water for clearer vision and eye protection.
summer specific
Keeps valuables like phones and cameras safe from water exposure.
all specific
Comfortable clothing that dries fast helps stay warm if you get splashed.
all specific