5-Hour Sailing Adventures with Nichol End Marine in Portinscale
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a reasonable fitness level, comfortable with active movement in occasionally challenging wind conditions.
Overview
Set sail for five hours on Derwentwater with Nichol End Marine, where Lake District winds and iconic islands await. Ideal for sailors ready to test their skills or families seeking a crisp day on the water.
Sailing - 5 hours
For all ages! • Great for groups of all sizes! • Family friendly
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About This Adventure
Sail your troubles away
Duration
5 hours
About
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.
More info
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.
What to bring
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.
Adventure Tips
Bring waterproof layers
Lake District weather shifts quickly; a waterproof jacket can keep you comfortable on open water.
Sun protection is key
Even on cool days, UV exposure is high—wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Secure valuables in dry bags
Keep electronics and valuables safe and dry during your sail with a well-sealed dry bag.
Wear or bring wetsuits for smaller dinghies
Expect to get wet in Wayfarers; wetsuits and buoyancy aids are provided for safety and comfort.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red squirrels
- Herons
History
Derwentwater has long been a focal point of regional lake culture, with ties to literary legends and centuries of local sailing tradition.
Conservation
Nichol End Marine emphasizes minimizing environmental impact, encouraging sustainable boating practices on Derwentwater.
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Adventure Hotspots in Keswick
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and rain during unpredictable Lake District weather.
all specific
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm and comfortable if you splash or capsize in cooler months.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sun hat
Provides shade and helps prevent heat exhaustion during bright summer days.
summer specific
Dry bag
Keeps personal items like phones and cameras safe and dry on the water.
all specific