Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a member?
Short answer, fill in this form.
Longer answer, come down to the club on a race day, excuse all the busy people as they are probably get ready for sailing (they are friendly when they finish) and talk to some people there. The best idea is to wait until the racing starts and then talk to the people who are left hanging around, they will be in the galley upstairs. Better still contact the secretary arrange and something more definite.
I would like to try sailing can I just have a go, before I join?
We hold a try sail day every year look on the open meetings page for this years date. This will give you the opportunity to have a go at sailing under the guidance of one of the club members.
At other times of year then contact the using the Contact Us page, and we can see what we can arrange.
Where do you sail?
We sail on the Bristol Channel near Bristol. We have our own slipway and a large expanse of water to sail in. Take a look on the webcam and you may even spot us sailing.
Where are the yachts?
Despite our name the club only deals with sailing dinghys. The Portishead Cruising Club is the local yacht club.
Can I hire a boat?
We do hire boats but only to members.
Do you teach children?
Yes, see the Cadets page for the latest information.
Do you offer training?
Yes, see out Training for more information.
Do I have to own a boat to sail?
If you join as a member you can hire one of the club boats. We do encourage people to buy their own boats and there is plenty of advice available. Boats can be bought from a few hundred pound to many thousands.
Do I have to race?
Absolutely not! Some people like to race, some people don't. If you want to join just for sailing around at the weekend then you can do just that. You are free to come down and sail whenever the rescue boat is out.
There are cruises up/downtide organised, a number of times during the year. A group of boats will head out with the tide haul out on a sand bank and watch the tide turn around and return on the incoming tide. Some times we play cricket on the sandbank, some times the sandbank is very small but a fun time is had by all.
I am a member of another club can I come a sail at PYSC?
Members of other clubs are welcome to come and sail at our open meetings. If you are in the area at other times and would like to sail with us there is the option of temporary membership. Please contact us using the Contact Us page for information.
How the club is run?
The exact answer is by the rules which you will find here. The quick version is:-
The club is run entirely by volunteers. There are two formal bodies.
- The General Committee (GC) is responsible for membership, safety and the club facilities.
- The Sailing Sub Committee (SSC) are responsible for sailing, training and boats.
We welcome new volunteers to become part of either committee. Or to help in any way they can.
The two committees meet monthly and make decisions for the benefit and functioning of the club. If you have any suggestions for club management please email one of the GC who will raise them at the next meeting.
The AGM is held in November each year at The Royal Inn and is a chance to consult all membership on any proposed changes to the club.
Modified: on 06/11/2022