Business Details
Premier Sailing Club in Sheerness, Kent
Established in 1896, IOS Sailing Club stands as one of the UK's oldest and most respected sailing organisations, dedicated to promoting amateur dinghy and catamaran sailing. Our purpose-built clubhouse in Sheerness, Kent, offers state-of-the-art facilities alongside direct access to some of the South East's finest sailing waters. As an RYA Training Centre, we provide structured training programmes for sailors of all abilities, from beginners to competitive racers. Our flagship event, the annual IOS Round the Island Race, has tested sailors' endurance since 1959, attracting participants from across Europe. With 24-hour launching capabilities, modern amenities including hot showers and disabled facilities, and a vibrant racing calendar from April to November, we cater to both casual enthusiasts and serious competitors.Our volunteer-led structure ensures affordable membership fees while maintaining high standards of operation. Strategically located just 40 miles from London and easily accessible via major motorways, we combine historical tradition with modern sailing excellence. Our Commodore-led governance preserves our community-focused ethos while driving continuous improvements in facilities and services. From family-friendly social events to world-class racing opportunities, we provide a welcoming environment for all sailing enthusiasts.
Services
Sailing Events
RYA Training
Clubhouse Hire
Boat Launching
Membership
Highlights and features
- We host Europe's longest annual dinghy race since 1959
- RYA-certified training for all skill levels
- 24/7 launching facilities with tidal access
- Modern clubhouse with disabled facilities
- Competitive racing calendar April-November
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
What people say
World-class sailing waters
Excellent racing calendar
Friendly community
Modern clubhouse
RYA training available
Services
Sailing Events
We organise competitive sailing events including the annual 40-mile Round the Island Race. Our calendar features handicap racing from April to November with multiple fleets. Events attract international participants and offer trophy competitions across various boat classes.
RYA Training
As an RYA Training Centre, we provide certified instruction for dinghy and powerboat sailing. Our programmes cater to all levels from beginner to advanced, using modern teaching methods and experienced instructors to develop sailing proficiency.
Clubhouse Hire
Our purpose-built clubhouse accommodates events with modern facilities including kitchen, bar, and changing areas. The venue features hot showers, disabled access, and a large hall suitable for functions, training sessions, or social gatherings.
Boat Launching
We offer 24/7 launching facilities with concrete ramps and shelving beach access. Two compounds provide launching at all tides (primary) and HW 3hrs (secondary), supporting dinghies, catamarans, and sailboards with dedicated parking spaces.
Membership
Membership grants access to racing programmes, training, and facilities. We offer competitive fees with priority boat parking for active members. Benefits include event participation, clubhouse access, and community engagement through volunteer committees.
People
James Bell
Commodore
Isle of Sheppey sailor since age 4, former Kent Schools Sailing Association member, and club Commodore at 26. Organised ten consecutive Round the Island Races and led the club through pandemic challenges.
Questions
How do I join IOS Sailing Club?
Visit our membership page to complete an application form. Fees are competitive with priority boat parking for active members.
What sailing events do you host?
Our flagship event is the annual Round the Island Race. We also run weekly handicap races April-November and social sailing events.
Are training courses available?
As an RYA Training Centre, we offer certified dinghy and powerboat courses for all skill levels.
What facilities are available?
Modern clubhouse with kitchen, bar, hot showers, disabled facilities, and two boat launching compounds with 24/7 access.
How accessible is the club?
Located 30 minutes from M25, with nearby train station and large car park. Easily reached from London and South East.
Reviews (4)
Maureen Hutchings
Dec 12, 2021
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I use the WebCams quite a lot as I find I am very accurate and sometimes much better than the weather reports on television and as they are very local to me very useful
John Wyatt
May 10, 2021
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Cracking place to fish. Limited parking and can get very busy. Caught lovely thornback rays here. Bluey and squid works well. Take something warm that breeze can have a cold edge when it's face on.
Khushbu Christian
Jul 09, 2020
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I loved it!!.. even if its hard times...i get people who gave me information...its really good...can't wait for my children to join sailing club
Stewart Robertson
Nov 28, 2019
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The premier club for dinghy racing on the Medway. One of the most competitive racing on the east coast. Great support for juniors on Saturday mornings and in the afternoon great for learning adults. Sunday's is the day for racing and we have 13 Blazes so we always get 4 or 5 out. 2000s get class racing too but we also have a keen fleet of Mustos but they are often away doing international competition. Pay a visit at the weekend and join in.
