Cowes Sailability Club is the Cowes Classics Regatta nominated charity for 2025.

Cowes Sailability Club is a registered charity that offers sailing and recreational boating opportunities for adults and children with physical disabilities, learning disabilities and long-term medical conditions. With its specially adapted boats and trained volunteers, it makes it possible for people with all kinds of complex needs to have an exciting and rewarding experience on the water. Founded in 2002, it is one of over 140 Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Sailability groups in the UK that provide sailing activities for disabled people. 

Putting smiles on faces

The charity’s aim is to put smiles on faces, but in reality it does so much more than this. It gives people with disabilities renewed confidence in themselves, inspires them to live their lives to the full and leaves them with incredible memories that they and their families will treasure.

Some of the people who have benefited from Cowes Sailability Club have shared their experiences below.

Mum Joanna“My son Tristan loves being a member of Cowes Sailability Club. People with autism often find it hard to focus, and I can really see how sailing with Cowes Sailability Club helps Tristan to focus on what he is doing and concentrate to learn new things. Being on the water helps to keep him calmer and makes him feel so happy. The social aspect of Cowes Sailability Club is also very important to him, as it enables him to spend time with other people who share his passion for sailing and boating.”

Mum Joanna

Belinda“A diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis 23 years ago has resulted in many unwanted changes in my physical ability and life in general. It seemed that my life was becoming increasingly limited in the things I could enjoy…. That is, until I was introduced to Sailability! Thanks to the tireless support of the many volunteers, who willingly offer their help and expertise with great kindness and good humour, I have been able to enjoy being on the sea – something I would never have dreamed would be possible.”

Belinda

Isabella“My daughter Isabella has Down syndrome and gets easily overwhelmed in social situations. The trips organised by Cowes Sailability Club are so good for her, because they help her to build her confidence and learn how to interact with new people in a supportive environment. The volunteers from Cowes Sailability Club and the crew of the boat are very understanding and very patient with all the children who have disabilities. Everyone has a great time!”

Mum Rochelle 

To read more wonderful stories about the positive impact that Cowes Sailability Club has on the lives of people with disabilities, go to www.cowessailability.co.uk/our-impact/.

Thank you for supporting our charity of the year and helping to put smiles on the faces of disabled adults and children living on the Isle of Wight.