While Weymouth is the official sailing venue for the London 2012 Olympics, it is Hayling Island that many sailors have chosen as their secondary training venue.

Hayling Island regularly receives excellent sailing conditions and, as an island, it is surrounded by stretches of water that can used for training.

HISC (Hayling Island sailing Club) is the natural base for many athletes due to the outstanding facilities that the club offers. However on any day other than open days you have to be a member to gain access to the club.

HISC isn’t Hayling Island’s only great sailing venue – there are a vast array of other marinas, sailing clubs and boat yards too. Northney Marina, Mengham/Rythe, Sparkes Marina and Hayling Ferry Sailing Club are all based on the island. It is best to check the launch, landing and mooring fees applicable from each by giving them a call.

Beginners will need to undertake a sailing course; setting sail without any previous tuition or safety cover could prove extremely dangerous. Many of the local sailing clubs offer Royal Yachting Association (RYA) tuition to equip sailors with the skills they need.

Setting sail from Hayling

If you own a yacht then you will be well served, as Hayling offers a fantastic sheltered anchorage as a safe haven from westerly storms.  For those needing to undertake maintenance, there are plenty of companies based on the Island willing to offer their services.

Hayling Island is a gateway to the rest of the south coast, the Isle of Wight and Europe. Many choose the island as their yacht base and garner all supplies and provisions before setting off on the journey.

A good sailing business infrastructure is available on the island and servicing the sailing fraternity has been a local industry for many years.

 

Sailing Key Facts

  • Hayling offers both the casual dinghy sailor and professional the opportunity to launch, land and moor
  • It is worth checking what fees each venue charges before heading to the island
  • Hayling Island is extremely tidal so understanding tides and having access to a tide table is key to making you time on the water enjoyable. Any local sailing club, marina or chandlery will be happy to advise with regard to tide times. Beginners should undertake a sailing course, available at many of the sailing clubs, to equip themselves with the knowledge and skills before taking to the water.