Aiming to get boat owners on the water more
In support of marina users around Britain, the RYA has launched its new Active Marina programme to help marinas develop activity programmes for berth holders.
According to the RYA’s Yachting Development Officer, Guy Malpas, ‘The objective is to get berth holders using their boats more often by increasing confidence and competence through a number of practical and shore based workshops throughout the season, run by RYA Recognised Training Centres and instructors.
He continued: ‘There would also be some events including cruises in company and social events to enable berth holders to meet others and find like-minded families and crews in order to develop an informal/virtual club feel.’
‘So far there are some 18 marinas across the country looking to become engaged in the programme in 2011, including the likes of MDL, Dean & Reddyhoff, Castle and Premier Marinas, with whom we are looking at ways to develop the training, cruising and social aspects for their berth holders.’
One marina already involved is MDL’s Woolverstone Marina. Based on the River Orwell near Ipswich, they have set out a series of activities and workshops commencing mid-May including:
- Manoeuvring practise in the marina
- Crew training and development days
- Partners day
- Locking in and out practise
- Seamanship skills
- Local pilotage
- Basic navigation and more
The marina has also organised an end-of-season cruise and dinner with special guest Tom Cunliffe, author, prizewinning TV and radio presenter and one of sailing’s biggest personalities.
‘The activities at Woolverstone Marina give an idea of what the programme is all about and we look forward to more marinas putting together similar plans’, concluded Guy.
To find out more about the Active Marina programme contact Guy Malpas by email at guy.malpas@rya.org.uk.