Youth Sailing
Youth Sailing is the next step up from the Junior group and is designed for competent young sailors from Year 7 onwards. It provides an opportunity for those who already have some sailing experience to spend more time on the water, develop their skills further, and enjoy sailing in a relaxed and sociable environment with friends. The emphasis is on building confidence, independence, and a deeper understanding of sailing while continuing to have plenty of fun along the way.
Sessions are listed on the KYC website and are also shared through the Youth Parents WhatsApp group to help families stay up to date with upcoming activities and sailing opportunities. Sailors are welcome to bring their own boats if they have them, but a range of club boats are also available, ensuring that everyone who wants to take part can get out on the water.
A variety of activities take place throughout the season. Many sessions involve on-water games and exercises in and around the Keyhaven River, which are designed to develop boat handling, awareness of wind and tide, and general sailing confidence. These sessions are deliberately informal and supportive, allowing young sailors to learn through experience while enjoying time with their peers. When conditions allow, the group may also venture slightly further afield for short exploratory sails, helping participants broaden their sailing experience and gain confidence in new surroundings.
Participants are expected to take increasing responsibility for their own sailing. This includes rigging and de-rigging their own boats, helping with launching and recovery, and beginning to develop their own judgement about weather conditions, tides, and suitable sailing areas. All activities take place within a supportive, parent-run environment where safety and encouragement remain the top priorities.The 2025 season was relatively quiet as many of our current Youth sailors were busy preparing for their GCSEs. However, with a number of the 2025 Juniors now moving up into the Youth group, we are expecting a busy and exciting season in 2026. We have lots planned for the coming months and are looking forward to welcoming both returning sailors and those joining the group for the first time.
If your child would like to get involved or you would like to find out more, please email sailing@keyhavenyc.co.uk for further details.
