Is previous sailing experience required?

No, this program is designed for beginners and improvers with no prior experience needed.

What should I bring on the day?

Bring water, weather-appropriate clothing, and personal items like sunglasses and sunscreen.

Are children allowed to participate?

Yes, ages 8 and up are welcome with parental supervision.

What if the weather is bad?

Sessions may be rescheduled or refunded in case of severe weather conditions.

Do I need to know how to swim?

While swimming skills are not mandatory, participants must wear a life jacket at all times.

How many people are in each group?

Group sizes are typically small, around 4-6 sailors per instructor, for personalized attention.

Onboard Improvers Sailing | Boat Tour in Saint Mary's Island | Water Activities, Boat Rental, Rentals, Sailing | Boat Tour | Water Activities

Located along the historic coast of Chatham Maritime, this sailing session is a perfect fit for young sailors ready to build confidence and refine their skills on the water. The area, known for its rich maritime heritage and protected waters, provides an ideal setting for beginners and improvers alike to tackle new challenges while surrounded by stunning views of the Thames Estuary. A typical day on the water blends practical instruction with hands-on experience, as young sailors work with a variety of boats and equipment designed to teach essential sailing techniques such as tacking, gybing, and man-overboard drills. The session is led by seasoned instructors passionate about cultivating a love for sailing and safe seamanship. What sets this program apart is its supportive environment, where learners can try different boats—including dinghies and small keelboats—without the pressure often felt in larger competitions. Plus, the close proximity to London makes it an accessible escape into the ocean-inspired realm of wind and waves, perfect for family outings or youth groups seeking a memorable adventure. The waters off Chatham Maritime are renowned for their manageable winds and sheltered bays, making them ideal for growth and learning at every skill level. Instructors emphasize safety and environmental awareness, instilling good seamanship practices from the start. Whether you’re new to sailing or looking to sharpen your skills, the Onboard Improvers Sailing program offers both education and exhilaration in a stunning maritime setting. It’s not just a class—it’s a gateway into lifelong navigation pursuits, all while discovering the history-rich waters of southeast England.

About Chatham Maritime Trust

Chatham Maritime Trust operates watersports and coastal leisure experiences on Saint Mary's Island, England. The Trust offers a diverse programme of self-launch and pay & play activities including paddleboarding, kayaking, windsurfing/wingsupping, pedalos and an inflatable Aquapark.

Sessions range from short family rides to certified introductory courses such as the two-day Adult Level 1 Start Sailing course and two-hour Start Kayaking beginners’ course. Many pay & play options supply buoyancy aids and require appropriate supervision for under-18s; the Aquapark sessions specify lifeguard cover and buoyancy aid provision. Self-launch options allow experienced participants to bring their own paddleboards, kayaks or windsurfing equipment while following safety guidance and self-rescue expectations.

Family-oriented experiences include Paddleboard Pay & Play, Kayak Pay & Play and Pedalo hire, with age guidance and adult supervision encouraged for younger paddlers. The Trust also runs improvers’ sailing sessions for young sailors, open water swim opportunities and themed Adventure Day events. Chatham Maritime Trust focuses on accessible coastal recreation within an urban saltwater environment at Saint Mary's Island, making watersports approachable for local residents and visitors.

The Trust’s programmes emphasise skill development, environmental awareness and on-water safety through clear session descriptions and supervised courses where stated. Visitors can choose from casual hourly activities, skill-building courses or self-directed sessions to suit ability levels and family groups. All activities and course details are published in session summaries to help visitors select suitable experiences. Booking information and specific session times are provided on the Trust's listings to assist planning and ensure availability.