Sailing with Sussex Sailability

Sailability was founded by the Royal Yachting Association to enable disabled people to sail. With the aid of a National Lottery Grant, Sussex Yacht Club has set up a self funded branch called Sussex Sailability.The main Club premises at Shoreham and Southwick have been modified for disability access and we have installed hoists on our jetties to lift sailors from and to their wheelchairs. We provide sailing opportunities for people with a wide range of physical, sensory, learning and other disabilities or difficulties. It's fun, friendly and affordable. If you love sailing or want to try it, do come and join us as a novice, crew, helm, volunteer, fund raiser, or give a donation. Come and have a go – see Taster Sessions and Sailors.

We are a 100% volunteer organisation. Our volunteers drive safety boats, help maintain, rig, launch, wash and put away the dinghies, as well as helping with, and coaching, sailing, on and off the water. Come and help – see Volunteers.

We have 15 boats suitable for people with disabilities to helm and to crew. These range from single-handers (one equipped with servo assisted controls) to 23 ft. racing keel boats. We also have a Ro-Ro power boat, accessible for people who need to stay in their wheelchairs. See Our Boats for more details and photos.

CHILDREN – At Sussex we sail on tidal water, unlike most groups on inland lakes. This provides more interesting boating, but at the same time does, other than in exceptional cases, restrict our ability to accommodate youngsters under the age of 14 years.
Play the RYA Come and Sail video

SCHEDULES - As the tide times vary – see ourSailors schedule or  our Powered session schedule for dates and times.
CONTACTS - If you would like to talk about sailing with us or volunteering – see Contacts

"Sailability has given me the opportunity to practice & enhance my sailing skills in a safe environment. I particularly enjoy our keelboat races which have been a new experience for me. It’s great to meet up with new friends at the weekends and go sailing together. Sailability, together with the excellent organisation & instruction, has made this possible!" Chris

''The best things I see for my son are his growing self-confidence, fitness, verbal and physical skills. There is 'a can do' attitude amongst fellow volunteers and sailors alike, of all ages. They are never challenged, always encouraged with care and respect''.
Margaret (volunteer)