Tell your friends to try sailing this May with RYA Push the Boat Out

RYA Push the Boat Out 2019 © Paul Wyeth

RYA Push the Boat Out 2019 © Paul Wyeth

There's just one weekend left to join the thousands of people that have already got afloat this May and try sailing with RYA Push the Boat Out (PTBO).

With more than 50 PTBO open days offering free or low cost opportunities to try sailing or windsurfing this weekend, why not make the most of the Spring bank holiday and 'have a go'?

Whether you're seven or in your seventies, outdoor activities like sailing and windsurfing can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health. The PTBO campaign aims to get more people on-the-water, having fun and getting active outdoors.

Confident and in control

7-year-old Molly and her dad Andy, recently took to the water at their local PTBO open day to try a whole host of on-the-water activities for the first time. A real family day out, Molly had a go at everything from dinghy sailing and windsurfing to powerboating and stand up paddle boarding.

She said: "When I was in control of the dinghy, I felt confident and it felt very special being in control. It was my first time sailing and I really enjoyed it."

The family friendly PTBO open days offer something for everyone, with a variety of both on-the-water and shore-side activities, as well as BBQs and entertainment for the kids.

The experience of a lifetime

Despite a life-long fear of boats and never having set foot in a dinghy, 73-year-old Trudy went along to watch the sailing at her local PTBO event earlier this month. Inspired by so many taking to the water and encouraged by friends and family at the club, Trudy decided it was time to have a try.

Daughter Lou, commented: "She hobbled down the beach with gritted teeth and 'jumped' aboard a Laser Stratos being sailed by our Commodore. He immediately put her at ease and they set off slowly in very light winds.

"About 20 minutes later the wind got up and we all sat on shore watching the Stratos fly around the Solent. After what seemed like an eternity (it wasn't) the dinghy returned to shore with an extremely excited and happy Mum onboard vowing to sail again!"

Try sailing in May

RYA Push the Boat Out returns this May, with more than 390 venues across the UK offering free or low cost, sailing and windsurfing taster sessions.

All ages and abilities are welcome, with opportunities for children, families, beginners and lapsed sailors, as well as those with disabilities or special requirements for getting out on-the-water.

Last year, more than 39,000 people across the UK attended a PTBO open day, inspiring thousands of new sailors to join their local club.

Find out more about the Push the Boat Out campaign and events near you at rya.org.uk/ptbo. For ongoing opportunities and more about how to get started visit rya.org.uk/go/StartBoating.