Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Sailing Destination in Knaresborough
Established in 1957, Ripon Sailing Club has cultivated a thriving, family-friendly community dedicated to sailing excellence. As a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Teaching Establishment, we deliver certified dinghy and powerboat courses led by qualified volunteers, prioritising safety and skill development for all ages. Our 24/7 accessible facilities include a 75-acre lake, modern clubhouse, and a dynamic calendar of racing events, coaching sessions, and social activities.Recognised by British Youth Sailing, we nurture junior talent through structured programmes while offering competitive opportunities for seasoned sailors. With a volunteer-driven ethos, members contribute to maintaining our grounds and participate in decision-making to ensure the club evolves to meet community needs. Our commitment to accessibility, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement reflects our status as a registered Community Amateur Sports Club (CASC).
Services
Sailing Courses
Powerboat Training
Racing Events
Youth Sailing
Dinghy Courses
RC Yacht Racing
Taster Sessions
Coaching Programmes
Event Hosting
Camping Facilities
Details
- Year established: 1957
Highlights and features
- RYA-certified courses led by experienced volunteer instructors
- 24/7 access to modern facilities and 75-acre sailing lake
- Recognised youth development programmes with British Youth Sailing status
- Active racing calendar and community-focused events
- Volunteer-driven ethos ensuring member involvement and cost-effective membership
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
Services
Sailing Courses
RYA-certified sailing courses for all ages and abilities, delivered by qualified volunteer instructors. Programmes include beginner taster sessions, youth development pathways, and advanced racing techniques. Courses run seasonally with flexible booking options through our online portal.
Powerboat Training
RYA Powerboat Level 2 certification courses covering handling, safety, and navigation. Practical training conducted on our 75-acre lake with experienced instructors. Ideal for recreational users and those seeking commercial endorsements.
Racing Events
Regular racing calendar featuring Wednesday evening club races, Sunday series, and regional championships. Events cater to dinghy, keelboat, and remote control yacht competitors with prize-giving ceremonies and social activities.
Youth Sailing
British Youth Sailing-recognised programmes for ages 8-23, including Pre-Sailor, Junior, and Youth fleets. Structured coaching, race training, and Duke of Edinburgh volunteering opportunities in a safe, supervised environment.
RC Yacht Racing
Active Dragon Force 65 and IOM remote control yacht racing programmes with dedicated coaching and regattas. Club hosts regular events and provides storage and maintenance facilities for members' RC fleets.
Questions
How do I join Ripon Sailing Club?
Apply online via our website's 'Join' portal. Membership categories include family, single, junior, and youth options with pro-rata fees available June-October.
What sailing courses do you offer?
We provide RYA-certified dinghy and powerboat courses for all levels, from beginner tasters to advanced racing techniques, taught by qualified volunteer instructors.
Are there racing opportunities available?
Yes! Weekly club races, annual regattas, and regional championships for dinghies, keelboats, and RC yachts. Events include Wednesday evening series and Sunday racing year-round.
Can non-members access facilities?
Taster sessions require prior arrangement with our training team. Temporary memberships available for reciprocal club visitors during racing events.
What facilities are available?
Modern clubhouse with 24/7 access, changing rooms, galley, camping grounds, and equipment storage. Boat hire available for new members with 60% reimbursement in the first year.
How does the club support youth sailors?
Recognised by British Youth Sailing, we offer structured programmes from age 8, including Pre-Sailor, Junior, and Youth fleets with dedicated coaching and race training.
Reviews (4)
Gerald Seddon
Nov 27, 2019
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Absolutely stunning had a little Walk around lake .I would love to fish this lake and become a member
Leah Cowell
Jun 20, 2019
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Wow i have been to the sailing club for nearly a year now. The instructers are so kind and helpful to all the sailers their. I never knew how to sail propperly till i came hear and now i am a level 4 sailer. I just wont to give a big thanks to Stuart Oroarke for helping me to be a goog sailer and he always makes you laugh all the time( expecially when i did a dry turtle).
Ken Lynch
Sep 30, 2018
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Shocking. There is supposed to be no swimming but members were openly swimming during my 2 day visit. Also some members lit a fire on the bank. It seems that rules are ignored. There is no respect for other lake users.
Allis Waller
Jun 26, 2017
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My family were members of the club in the 1970's and I sailed on the lake as a child. Geat memeories.
