Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to arrive earlier than the start time of my course?
We recommend that you come 10 minutes before your course is about to start. Your instructor will welcome you and give you all the equipment you will need for your course.
Full day courses start at 10.00 am
Morning taster sessions start at 9.30 am
Afternoon taster sessions start at 1.00 pm
I’m not from the area. Where can I stay?
We are in the middle of a tourist area with a whole range of accommodation on offer. You will find details on the many tourism websites that focus on the Ullswater area. Ullswater Yacht Club’s private campsite (tents only - no caravans or visitor motor homes) is open to Sailing School students for the duration of their course, at competitive rates. For more details please call the Edmund Clarke James Watts, tel 01768 807450, or contact us
Where do I park - where do I go on arrival?
We have plenty of parking on site. Simply turn up, park and ask for The Sail Training Officer (James) or a Sailing Manager (Edmund or Steve)who will welcome you and show you where to change etc.
What do I need to bring?
We recommend that you bring a towel, swimming costume, trainers/wet boots and hat and gloves (dependent on the weather you may need sun glasses!) however to be safe, bring along warm clothing, ie a quick drying fleece and layers. You will also need to bring a packed lunch, refreshments, water etc.
Can a member of my family or a friend come with me and wait for me at the Club while I take part in my course?
Yes. Family and friends are welcome. The Sailing School is part of Ullswater Yacht Club which is a very welcoming, family orientated sailing club on the shores of Ullswater. Please can you let us know prior to your visit so we are aware that there will be guests with you.
Is there a minimum age for courses or taster sessions?
Children under 8 years of age may participate I a taster session, provided that a parent/guardian accompanies them on to the water and remains responsible for them at all times.
However, to attend a RYA Youth course, children need to be aged 8 years or older.
What is included in my course fee?
Use of all necessary personal protective clothing
Tuition by fully qualified staff trained to national governing body standards
Temporary membership of Ullswater Yacht Club. Participants will receive temporary membership of Ullswater Yacht Club, for the duration of the activity, enabling them to use the club’s facilities during the course.
What is not included in my course fee?
Personal insurance
Suitable on-water footwear
Towels
Lunch
Do I need personal insurance?
Personal insurance is not included in the course fee. Whilst you are in the best hands at Ullswater Sailing School, we strongly advise that you take out additional cover for your own peace of mind and to protect against any monetary loss, should you have to cancel your place on a course for reasons beyond your control.
Do I need to pay upfront?
A 25% deposit is required to confirm your course.
The remaining 75% is due 7 days before the start date of your course. You can pay on line here.
Please see our terms and conditions here
What if I can’t make it and have to cancel?
Cancellation more than 4 weeks before the start of your course will be charged 10% of the full course fee.
Cancellation within 4 weeks but not within 7 days of your course will be subject to a charge of 25% of the the full course fee.
Cancellation within 7 days of your course will forfeit the full course fee
Please see our terms and conditions here
What do I do next if I enjoy sailing and want to join Ullswater Yacht Club?
We would be delighted if you wanted to join us. Ask your instructors what it is like to be a member, they are all great ambassadors for our Club. We have a membership secretary whose role is to look after new members – Joanne Whitehead newmemberssec@ullswateryachtclub.org.uk. Details of membership and all that the Club has to offer are on our website www.ullswateryachtclub.org under the “Joining Us” tab