Sailing & Cruising Association upcoming events

East Coast - Easter Shakedown Rally 2026 Blackwater Odyssey (3 Apr 2026)

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Easter Shakedown Cruise: Blackwater Odyssey

Bradwell Marina
Friday 3 April – Monday 6 April
Bradwell Waterside, Bradwell-on-Sea, Essex CM0 7RB

Join us for an unforgettable Easter weekend on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned skipper or keen to crew, this is the perfect chance to shake off the winter cobwebs and enjoy great sailing, good company, and stunning scenery.

Weekend Highlights

Friday (Good Friday)
Arrive at Bradwell Marina and settle in. Evening meal at the Bradwell Harbourne Restaurant 7pm.
Saturday
Cruise the Blackwater past Maylandsea, Heybridge, and up to Maldon.
Lunch at anchor off Osea Island, then return to Bradwell for dinner at the Green Man Inn 7pm.
Sunday
Sail to Mersea Island for a picnic or BBQ at Pyefleet.
Continue to Wivenhoe and berth overnight at Brightlingsea (or anchor in deeper water for an easy Monday departure).
Monday
Depart for home ports.

Itinerary is flexible—members will have time to make suggestions and changes.

Voyage Briefing

Wednesday 25 March, 7–8 PM
Get all your questions answered before we set sail.

Notes for Skippers
Your host: Jonathan Harbourne
Questions? Email: eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk

This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow sailors, share stories, and make lasting memories. Don’t miss it!

===========================================================

GETTING HELP TO JOIN US

Skippers seeking crew, and crew seeking boats/berths are initially advised to use our WhatsApp channels. If you are unsuccessful contact the event host eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk. Confirm you berth (sleeping arrangements) with the skipper before making final arrangements to come.

Land based participants are as always welcome to join for the evening meals.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Register your attendance via the S&CA website by 1 March 2026.
We have at least a couple of boats already that will require crew – please register or email us, or use the WhatsApp channels so we allocate space.
Upon approach, skippers will be required to contact the harbour/marina by VHF for specific berthing instructions (please state you are part of the Sailing & Cruising Association (S&CA) Rally.
You can bring along friends, but remember to ‘add guest’ at the point of your registration. Guests can only be added at the time of registration. If you later want to add a guest and the event did not require payment please cancel your registration and re-register adding your guest. If your registration did require payment please contact the event host.

EVENT SAFETY AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

We are very much a social club, but participants must please be mindful of the inherent dangers of alcohol consumption and proximity to water. There have been incidents in past events of participants consuming excessive alcohol and falling from pontoons into the water. Each of these events could, but for luck, have resulted in tragic consequences. Please be mindful of your alcohol consumption on club events, and take particular care to ensure that you can get yourself safely back on board at the end of a social evening. We need to look after each other, so if you notice that another participant is showing effects of intoxication, please make other members of their crew aware, and ensure that they are not returning to the boats or pontoons alone.

Please also be aware of the additional risks when using dinghies/tenders, which has also resulted in event participants being unintentionally in the water.

Please use the links below for safety advice from the RYA and RNLI.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

If the club has made third party bookings, paid deposits or made other commitments, it may be that only a partial refund or no refund is offered.

Where a refund is requested due to dissatisfaction with third party goods or services, a refund will only be offered if such refund is also made to the club by the third-party.

Sailing & Cruising Association

South Coast Easter Shakedown Rally (3 Apr 2026)

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Easter Bank Holiday Solent Rally

Friday 3rd April – Monday 6th April
Cowes and Yarmouth Rally

Overview

Celebrate the start of the season with a relaxing long weekend rally.

Itinerary

Friday 3rd April

Berths have been booked at Cowes Yacht Haven for two nights. Boats to make there way to Cowes IOW for a relaxed 2 night stay. Boats can opt to eat out or onboard.

Saturday 4th April

Stay in Cowes and explore the area or take a walk up to Newport.

Sunday 5th April

Sail to Yarmouth and if the weather is good enough, BBQ on the beach!

Monday 6th April

Return to home ports

Additional Notes

Crew: please use the WhatsApp community to arrange any crewing opportunities.
Land Options: Non-sailing members are welcome to join either Cowes or Yarmouth events.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Notes for Skippers:
Your host tbc. Marina berths have been reserved and once registered your details will be passed to the relevant marinas prior to the rally. Please remember to pay for your berth once at the location.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Register your attendance via the S&CA website
Upon approach to Marina's skippers will be required to contact the harbour/marina by VHF for specific berthing instructions (please state you are part of the Sailing & Cruising Association (S&CA) Rally.
You can bring along friends, but remember to ‘add guest’ at the point of your registration. Guests can only be added at the time of registration. If you later want to add a guest and the event did not require payment please cancel your registration and re-register adding your guest. If your registration did require payment please contact the event host.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

The club will endeavour to provide full refunds for event charges when cancellations are made by you through the Website and made in good time. Normally, a week before the event is due to take place will be sufficient. If the club has made third party bookings, paid deposits or made other commitments, it may be that only a partial refund or no refund is offered. Where a refund is requested due to dissatisfaction with third party goods or services, a refund will only be offered if such refund is also made to the club by the third-party.

Sailing & Cruising Association

South Coast Easter Shakedown Rally Charter boat with Guy F (3 Apr 2026)

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Easter Bank Holiday Solent Rally - Charter Cruise led by Guy F

Friday 3rd April – Monday 6th April
3 - 5 hours sailing each day which will join the Club Rally in Yarmouth on Sunday 5th April

Overview

Celebrate the start of the season with a relaxing long weekend on a charter cruise.

Itinerary

Our plan is to sail to Poole, then Weymouth and back to Yarmouth to meet up with other club members. However it will be flexible and so we might end up in Cowes Saturday night. Unfortunately the tides and wind direction make flexibility Key. Our aim is to do at least 3-5 hours sailing each day over the four days. We have a free cabin for a couple or cabin and the Saloon for two singles who wish to have their own space. We have chartered a Bavaria 36 from Hamble Point Yacht Charter. Ideally crew to join Thursday evening but Friday morning would also be OK. We can pick up people if required please get in touch to make arrangements.

Cost £320 to £400 per person plus shared costs.

Friday 3rd April

Sail to Poole.

Saturday 4th April

Sail to Weymouth.

Sunday 5th April

Sail to Yarmouth.

Monday 6th April

Return to home ports

Additional Notes

Please use the WhatsApp community to contact Guy F in the S&CA Charters group. If you don't have WhatsApp, please find Guy F in the membership system or email commodore@gaysailing.org.uk to be put in contact with Guy F.
Please also register on the main Easter Rally event so we have an idea of total numbers for the Club event.

Sailing & Cruising Association

London Social Pizza - April 2026 (8 Apr 2026)

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - April 2026 (8 Apr 2026)

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Whether you're a current S&CA member, or thinking of joining the Club, you are welcome to join us for the London Social from 7pm on the second Wednesday of the month. We meet upstairs at Retro Bar, 2 George Court, London, WC2N 6HH, which is just off The Strand near Charing Cross.

Our monthly London Social has been an important part of S&CA life for decades. With many of our members living in and around London, this has been a key forum for meeting skippers and crew, making plans, and sharing sailing stories. It's a great way for prospective members to get a feel for the Club and for new members to get to know people before setting sail. You’re free to come along to this event but it helps us if you book so we know you’re coming.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised as a separate event. If you wish to attend the Pizza Express meal, please book using the separate event booking.

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

For those who live further afield, if the occasional journey into London isn't practical, keep an eye out for local social events (e.g. Brighton and Bristol). If you're keen to attend or help organise a local social elsewhere in the country, please contact: social@gaysailing.org.uk

Women's Network Online Gathering (22 Apr 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Join us for the next women's network spring online gathering !

As with many sailing groups, in S&CA women are still in a minority: as we are primarily a club for LGBT sailors, many women would like to link up with other women, especially those based out of London and the South-East of England,.

f this fits your bill, please register for an evening of informal news exchange and more on Weds 22nd April, 1930-2100

Registrants will receive a Google Meet link/login details
New members or prospective women members welcome!
if you are not yet a member of the S&CA Women’s WhatsApp group please find us under ‘Communities’ in the S&CA Community APP or click on https://chat.whatsapp.com/D64wl4PRI2GKkQktgSU55o?mode=gi_t
More details to follow nearer the time

Any queries ...or suggestions, please contact me via the WhatsApp group or at Women@gaysailing.org.uk

Looking forward!

best wishes

Rachel

Rachel Darnley-Smith

Rear Commodore Women

East Coast - May Day Cruise Weekend - Burnham on Crouch (2 May 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

May Day Cruise Weekend - Burnham on Crouch

Saturday 2 May - Monday 4 May 
Burnham Yacht Harbour, Foundry Lane, Burnham-On-Crouch, Essex CM0 8BL.

Ahoy, sailors!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming cruise! Whether you’re a seasoned skipper or eager to volunteer as crew, this event promises to be a fantastic adventure. We’ll set off on Saturday, 19th April and head to Burnham Marina. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a dinner at 7pm at the harbour restaurant or nearby restaurant or Royal Burnham Yacht Club. Pre-dinner drinks hosted on one of our boats.

On Sunday, we could visit Mangapps Historic Railway Museum where you can ride a steam train, or enjoy a walk in the local scenery.

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow sailing enthusiasts, share stories, and create lasting memories.

Saturday 2nd May: Boats to head to Burnham Yacht Harbour where we will take a pontoon mooring. We’ll have a dinner at one of the local restaurants (further details follow) together at 7:00pm.
Sunday 3rd May: Enjoy a walk in the local scenery, or visit the Steam Railway Museum, followed by an evening BBQ (please bring your favourite BBQ food).
Monday 4th May: Head for home ports.

Notes for Skippers
Your host will be Jonathan Harbourne
Any questions, please email eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk
Itinerary is flexible—members will have time to make suggestions and changes.

Voyage Briefing

Monday 27 April, 8–9 PM
Get all your questions answered before we set sail.

Notes for Skippers
Your host: Jonathan Harbourne
Questions? Email: eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk

This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow sailors, share stories, and make lasting memories. Don’t miss it!

===========================================================

GETTING HELP TO JOIN US

Skippers seeking crew, and crew seeking boats/berths are initially advised to use our WhatsApp channels. If you are unsuccessful contact the event host eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk.

Land based participants are as always welcome to join for the evening meals.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Register your attendance via the S&CA website by 1 March 2026.
We have at least a couple of boats already that will require crew – please register or email us, or use the WhatsApp channels so we allocate space.
Upon approach, skippers will be required to contact the harbour/marina by VHF for specific berthing instructions (please state you are part of the Sailing & Cruising Association (S&CA) Rally.
You can bring along friends, but remember to ‘add guest’ at the point of your registration. Guests can only be added at the time of registration. If you later want to add a guest and the event did not require payment please cancel your registration and re-register adding your guest. If your registration did require payment please contact the event host.

EVENT SAFETY AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Please also be aware of the additional risks when using dinghies/tenders, which has also resulted in event participants being unintentionally in the water.

Please use the links below for safety advice from the RYA and RNLI.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

If the club has made third party bookings, paid deposits or made other commitments, it may be that only a partial refund or no refund is offered.

Where a refund is requested due to dissatisfaction with third party goods or services, a refund will only be offered if such refund is also made to the club by the third-party.

Sailing & Cruising Association

South Coast Early May Bank Holiday Rally (2 May 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Early May Bank Holiday Solent Rally

Saturday 2nd May to Monday 4th May at Island Harbour and Beaulieu

Overview

Central Solent Rally over the bank holiday weekend.

Itinerary

Saturday 2nd May

Sail to Island Harbour on the Isle of Wight. Why not book yourself into the new restaurant the Cockle, take a walk to the Folly Pub for your evening meal or keep things simple and eat onboard.

Sunday 3rd May

Sail to Buckler's Hard in Beaulieu River. We have a BBQ and Marquee area booked for members to use in the evening.

Monday 4th May

Return to Home Ports

Additional Notes

Crew: please use the WhatsApp community to arrange any crewing opportunities.
Land Options: Non-sailing members are welcome to join either Island Harbour and Beaulieu

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Register your attendance via the S&CA website
Upon approach to Marina's skippers will be required to contact the harbour/marina by VHF for specific berthing instructions (please state you are part of the Sailing & Cruising Association (S&CA) Rally.
You can bring along friends, but remember to ‘add guest’ at the point of your registration. Guests can only be added at the time of registration. If you later want to add a guest and the event did not require payment please cancel your registration and re-register adding your guest. If your registration did require payment please contact the event host.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

Sailing & Cruising Association

French Canal boat Charter - Le Boat Tannay to Migennes (13 May 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Canal boat Charter on the Canal du Nivernais and Yonne River

A seven day canal boat charter on the Canal du Nivernais and Yonne River from Tannay to Migennes with Le Boat has been organised with one boat fully booked.

Here is a link to the Le Boat website for the region:

https://www.leboat.com/en/boating-holidays/france/burgundy/nivernais-loire

Click the 'View Dates and Prices' tab, select start date 13 May 2026 from the calendar, number of people and then 'Search'. Select the route 'Tannay - Migennes' and choose '13 May' to see available boats. There are discounts available in January so early booking is advised.

Alternative trips could be a one way from Migennes to Tannay with boats meeting in the middle as they pass or a return from Migennes and meeting up for the second half of the journey if boats aren't available for Tannay to Migennes.

Simon T is interested in chartering a boat to join this trip so please sign up to the event to see his contact details there or contact commodore@gaysailing.org.uk and I will pass your details on to Simon.

The boat hire costs are £550 to £650 per person for the week, depending on the boat size and number of people. Additional costs include food and drink for the week, travel to and from France and possible overnight stays, with travel to France on 12 May and return to England on 21 May, as being undertaken by the crew of the boat already booked.

London Social Pizza - May 2026 (13 May 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - May 2026 (13 May 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

The Cherbourg Bank Holiday Bonanza (22 May 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Join us for a relaxed Cross Channel cruise-in-company and exploration of Cherbourg and the beautiful Cotentin Peninsula

Overview: The May Spring Bank Holiday is the perfect opportunity to get across the Channel, gorge on seafood and local Norman cuisine, and stock up on wine and cheese supplies for the rest of the season.

Crossing from home ports on either the Friday or Saturday, we’ll aim for all boats to rendezvous and check in to France at Port Chantereyne by late afternoon or early evening on Saturday. Cherbourg is a large, well-protected port, accessible in almost all conditions and states of tide, and an ideal first hop across the Channel.

Once settled in, crews may wish to stretch their legs and enjoy welcome drinks at Le Freedom, a short walk into town.

Sunday is all about relaxing: pottering on boats, sunbathing (weather permitting!), or exploring the town and surrounding countryside. If conditions allow, a group hike in the Cotentin Peninsula is a great way to explore further afield and enjoy a leisurely lunch. If the weather turns, a visit to Cité de la Mer — with its aquarium, maritime exhibits and nuclear submarine — is an excellent alternative.

On Sunday evening, we’ll regroup for a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant.

Monday sees boats making the return passage to home ports.

Your organiser for this event is George Bliss who can be contacted to discuss any questions you have about the event (See membership list for his contact details). He will also host an online briefing on Sunday 17th Mat at 19.30BST

Proposed Itinerary:

Friday 22 May — Optional extra day

Option to cross a day early
George Blissand Crew (S/Y Hoya) may make a night passage on Friday evening, arriving early Saturday morning

Saturday 23 May — Channel Crossing

05:04 BST — HW Portsmouth
16:00–18:00 BST (17:00–19:00 local) — Arrivals at Port Chantereyne and clear in to France.
19:00 BST onwards (20:00 local) — Drinks at Le Freedom, 9 Rue Charles Blondeau

Sunday 24 May — Explore, Shop, Eat & Drink

Relax on board / sunbathe / explore the town
Optional hike — the La Glacerie loop offers gentle terrain, coastal scenery and a rewarding countryside lunch stop
Visit Cité de la Mer (aquarium & maritime museum)
Stock up on provisions and cheap plonk at the large Carrefour Cherbourg, close to the marina
Visit Cave Normandie Wine, who will deliver your haul directly to your cockpit (for free!)
Passport control (PAF) hopefully to be arranged on Sunday evening to allow for an early departure on Monday, if desired.
18:00 BST (19:00 local) — Group dinner at L’Equipage, conveniently located in the harbour.

Monday 25 May — Bank Holiday

Return crossings to home ports

PLEASE NOTE- .

The crossing dates, timings and activities are intentionally flexible. We’ll work to the outline above unless weather or conditions dictate a change.

There are formalities and declarations required when entering and leaving France and the UK. In practice, these are generally straightforward, and guidance on current requirements, necessary forms and procedure will be shared with skippers ahead of time and covered in the Voyage Briefing.

The French border authorities (PAF) will be advised of our itinerary in advance and usually prefer to handle passport control (to clear in and out of France) at a pre-arranged time. Timings to likely be communicated on Friday and take place in the marina office.

Cherbourg is ideally placed for boats from the Solent and surrounding areas — typically a 12–13 hour passage, approx. 75NM from Portsmouth and 60NM from the Needles.

Participation is entirely flexible: boats are welcome to arrive early, depart late, or join for part of the rally only. A small deposit will be required to secure marina berths at Port Chantereyne; this may be non-refundable if plans change, so please keep us informed.

An optional Voyage Briefing on Zoom will be held on Sunday 17 May at 19:00 BST.

East Coast - Spring Bank Holiday Cruise - Shotley Peninsular (23 May 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Spring Bank Holiday Cruise - Shotley Peninsular

Saturday 23 May – Monday 25 May
Shotley Peninsula, Felixstowe & Harwich
Join us for three days of relaxed sailing, coastal exploration, and social gatherings!

Overview

Celebrate the Spring Bank Holiday with fellow members on a yacht rally along the beautiful East Coast. Our itinerary combines scenic sailing, land-based activities, and plenty of time to unwind. Whether you’re arriving from nearby ports or joining us ashore, this is a perfect way to enjoy the season.

Itinerary

Saturday, May 23 – Arrival & Welcome

10:00–15:00: Arrive at Shotley Marina, settle in and relax.
Afternoon: Optional short sail around Harwich Harbour and up the River Stour, or enjoy a coastal walk on the Shotley Peninsula.
18:00–21:00: Welcome BBQ at Shotley Marina – great food and a chance to meet everyone.

Sunday, May 24 – Coastal Exploration

Morning: Cruise to Felixstowe Ferry (approx. 2–3 hours), passing the impressive Felixstowe Docks.
Lunch: Beach picnic at Felixstowe or Bawdsey – bring your own or order locally.
Afternoon: Explore ashore – options include Felixstowe town, Bawdsey Radar Museum, or a walk along the River Deben.
Evening: Optional group dinner in Harwich Old Town at a traditional pub or seafood restaurant. Overnight in Harwich or return to Shotley.

Monday, May 25 – Scenic Sail & Farewell

Morning: Leisurely sail up the River Orwell toward Pin Mill for classic East Coast scenery.
Lunch: Riverside meal at the Butt & Oyster pub.
Afternoon: Return to Shotley Marina for departure prep. Farewell and departures to home ports.

Additional Notes

Safety: Ensure VHF communication and tide planning for Deben and Orwell.
Land Options: Non-sailing members can join at Shotley or Harwich for social events.
Weather Contingency: Alternative land-based activities if conditions prevent sailing.

––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Notes for Skippers

Your host will be Jonathan Harbourne
Any questions, please email eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk
Itinerary is flexible—members will have time to make suggestions and changes.

Voyage Briefing

Wednesday 13 May, 8–9 PM
Get all your questions answered before we set sail.

Notes for Skippers
Your host: Jonathan Harbourne
Questions? Email: eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk

This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow sailors, share stories, and make lasting memories. Don’t miss it!

===========================================================

GETTING HELP TO JOIN US

Skippers seeking crew, and crew seeking boats/berths are initially advised to use our WhatsApp channels. If you are unsuccessful contact the event host eastcoast@gaysailing.org.uk.

Land based participants are as always welcome to join for the evening meals.

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Register your attendance via the S&CA website by 1 March 2026.
We have at least a couple of boats already that will require crew – please register or email us, or use the WhatsApp channels so we allocate space.
Upon approach, skippers will be required to contact the harbour/marina by VHF for specific berthing instructions (please state you are part of the Sailing & Cruising Association (S&CA) Rally.
You can bring along friends, but remember to ‘add guest’ at the point of your registration. Guests can only be added at the time of registration. If you later want to add a guest and the event did not require payment please cancel your registration and re-register adding your guest. If your registration did require payment please contact the event host.

EVENT SAFETY AND ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Please also be aware of the additional risks when using dinghies/tenders, which has also resulted in event participants being unintentionally in the water.

Please use the links below for safety advice from the RYA and RNLI.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

If the club has made third party bookings, paid deposits or made other commitments, it may be that only a partial refund or no refund is offered.

Where a refund is requested due to dissatisfaction with third party goods or services, a refund will only be offered if such refund is also made to the club by the third-party.

Sailing & Cruising Association

S&CA Treasure Hunt (6 Jun 2026)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Musicals Treasure Hunt

Bembridge Harbour Saturday 6th June

Overview

Organisers, Jo & Liz, cordially invite you to a much-loved sailing event of the club’s calendar.

The theme of this year’s Treasure Hunt is Musicals. Choose your favourite musical and dress up your boat, yourselves and anyone you can grab hold of for a weekend of fun and frolics. There will be clues, games and, of course, prizes!

For those members who have not been on a club Treasure Hunt before, each boat decides on which musical they want to be and dress up as characters in that musical. There will be a prize for the best costumes (not necessarily for the most expensive!) as well as a prize for the best dressed boat. During your passage over to our final destination, there may be clues to find and tasks to complete.

Location and Meal

The final port of call on the Saturday will be Bembridge Harbour followed by dinner and prize giving at the Bembridge Sailing Club. There will be a group meal in the sailing club (food choices and cost are currently being confirmed). Once known, we will ask you to separately sign up for the meal, make meal choices and payment prior to the event.

Skippers - important information!

As berthing space is limited in Bembridge Harbour, skippers must book yourselves in directly with the Bembridge Harbour Authority (https://www.bembridgeharbour.co.uk) as soon as possible. There is a 5% discount on overnight rates for online booking and a further 5% for rallies.

Therefore, please register on the events page of the S&CA website and make your booking with Bembridge Harbour. When booking your berth online on the Harbour website, please use the Rally Code SCA34. During the online booking process, Rally skippers will be asked to select either the Duver Marina Rafting Area (along the main Duver pontoon) or Duver Marina (finger pontoons). It would be lovely if we were all together in the Rafting Area. Please be aware that Finger pontoons are only for boats up to 12.8m LOA and are available to all visitors and are therefore subject to availability - early booking is advisable. Boats over 18m LOA, multihulls, and boats with a beam over 4m will need to book through the Berthing Office (Tel: 01983 872828) as they cannot book online.

Please book your berth by 27^th March 2026.

If you would like to participate but haven’t got a boat, please contact the organisers as well as the WhatsApp Club Group. Alternatively, why not charter a boat with other club members?

We look forward to welcoming you to a Musical extravaganza to remember!

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO?

Register your attendance via the S&CA website
Skippers book your boats in directly with Bembridge
Upon approach to Marina skippers will be required to contact the harbour by VHF for specific berthing instructions (please state you are part of the Sailing & Cruising Association (S&CA) Rally.
You can bring along friends, but remember to ‘add guest’ at the point of your registration. Guests can only be added at the time of registration. If you later want to add a guest please contact the event host.

CANCELLATIONS AND REFUNDS

Sailing & Cruising Association

S&CA Treasure Hunt Charter (6 Jun 2026)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Musicals Treasure Hunt - Charter Boat with Guy F and John

Bembridge Harbour Saturday 6th June

Overview

Organisers, Jo & Liz, cordially invite you to a much-loved sailing event of the club’s calendar.

Guy and John are chartering a boat and are looking for crew to join them for a fun weekend joining in with the wonderful S & CA Musicals Treasure Hunt. A great weekend. Please get in touch ASAP if you are interested in joining Guy and John and register for the charter and Treasure Hunt events.

Please use the WhatsApp community to contact Guy F in the S&CA Charters group. If you don't have WhatsApp, please find Guy F in the membership system or email commodore@gaysailing.org.uk to be put in contact with Guy F.
Please contact Guy to discuss costs for the weekend.
Please also register on the main Treasure Hunt event so we know the total numbers for the Treasure Hunt.

Sailing & Cruising Association

London Social Pizza - June 2026 (10 Jun 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - June 2026 (10 Jun 2026)

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

London Social - Founders' Drinks July 2026 (8 Jul 2026)

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Whether you're a current S&CA member, or thinking of joining the Club, you are welcome to join us for the London Social from 7pm on the second Wednesday of the month.

In July 1980, the Club had its first meeting at The Dickens Inn and for July only, we hold Founders' Drinks at The Dickens Inn, St Katherine Docks, Marble Quay, St Katharine's Way, London E1W 1UH.

We will find an area in the bar or outside, depending on how busy it is. Please look around for us, we will be there!

We do not have an organised Pizza Express meal before Founders' Drinks but this does resume in August.

London Social Pizza - August 2026 (12 Aug 2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - August 2026 (12 Aug 2026)

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 18:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

London Social Pizza - September 2026 (9 Sep 2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 16:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - September 2026 (9 Sep 2026)

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

Šibenik, Croatia Sailing Charter (19 Sep 2026)

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 11:00:00 GMT

This year's charter from Šibenik, Croatia, follows on from last year's successful charter. Tom S and Andrew P are organising this charter and there is one boat booked already with interest also expressed by some of last year's skippers. Tom is taking on connecting interested crew with skippers and Andrew is helping with booking boats and itinerary planning.

The aim this year is for a two week charter September 19th to October 3rd, with a one week option from September 19th to 26th. It is scheduled to take place when the summer season has finished but the temperatures and sailing prospects are still good.

The hire base is Mandalina Marina, Šibenik which is less than an hour from either Zadar or Split Airports.

The charter would be with NCP Charter https://www.ncp-charter.com who have offered additional discounts for our group depending on the boat chosen and availability. They will also organise airport transfers if required.

Charter costs are currently quoted in the region of €1,500 - £1,200 per week for a Dufour 375. Split between a crew of four this gives a per head price of about £300. Additional costs are full yacht indemnity Insurance, marina fees, provisions and personal expenditure.

The aim is to largely stay together as a group fleet although individual crews are also of course welcome to do their own thing. The fleet itinerary will be to head south from Šibenik with a mix of secluded anchorages and marina nights in livelier historic towns. We will likely visit Split with its X Night club and the option of a gay history tour, Hvar, Jerolim 'gay' island, Lastovo Nature Park and maybe even Dubrovnik on the two week itinerary.

If you have any questions, please join the 'S&CA Overseas Charter' group in the Club WhatsApp Community and post questions there or email commodore@gaysailing.org.uk

Once you're going, please join the event so we know who's signed up.

Once a crew is assembled and boat options chosen contact Andrew Palmer to facilitate your booking and discount with NCP.

London Social Pizza - October 2026 (14 Oct 2026)

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 16:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - October 2026 (14 Oct 2026)

Wed, 14 Oct 2026 18:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

London Social Pizza - November 2026 (11 Nov 2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 17:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - November 2026 (11 Nov 2026)

Wed, 11 Nov 2026 19:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.

London Social Pizza - December 2026 (9 Dec 2026)

Wed, 09 Dec 2026 17:45:00 GMT

The London Socials are held on the second Wednesday of each month and are in two parts.

For early birds, a meal at 17:45 at Pizza Express, 450 Strand, London, WC2R 0TG is organised. This is a separate event, allowing members to see who’s coming and cancel should they need to.

The booking will be made at the restaurant as ‘Sailing Club’ so please say you’re with this group and they should take you to our table.

This is followed by the London Social at Retro Bar from 7pm which is organised as a separate event.

If you need to cancel, please cancel your booking if you’re a member and if you’re not a member, please contact us: social@gaysailing.org.uk

London Social - December 2026 (9 Dec 2026)

Wed, 09 Dec 2026 19:00:00 GMT

If you can’t make the pizza, the Landlord is more than happy for you to bring food or even order a pizza for delivery.