New Commodore Message - Andrew Hudson

Margate Yacht Club prides itself on being a friendly club, making all visitors welcome. The Club House is located on Fort Hill with panoramic views to the west from the first floor lounge bar.

We like to encourage people of all ages to experience the sport of sailing whether it’s a simple trial sail, or taking part in the club’s racing programme.   Margate Yacht Club is fortunate to own several club boats that are readily available to all members and as part of our on-going training programme they are also used by our trained RYA Dinghy Instructors to help make the experience an enjoyable one. These include Toppers, Topper Magnos, Optibats and a Wayfarer. We also have 2 RIB safety boats one of which was purchased new last year.

In 2009 we also achieved the RYA Recognised Training Centre Status, and are working to become a full On Board Club which is the RYA national initiative to increase participation in sailing.

Although a few members sail cruisers, most of the sailing takes place in dinghies and to a sailing programme that runs from Easter to November. This programme includes various races along with dedicated training days/practice sessions to enable everyone to gain more experience.

We have a committed cadet section, who not only like to take part in the many races that we hold,  but also enjoy the practice sessions that are held regularly during the season.

Most races are held on Sundays although the Wednesday evening Half Moon Series runs throughout the summer months, with launching from either side of the harbour wall dependent upon the tide.

We have 3 three affiliated groups who use the club facilities and premises:

Ramillies Explorer Sea Scout Unit, who use our facilities on Thursday evenings throughout the summer.

Thanet Sub Aqua Club, who use the Club House on Monday evenings.

Margate Sea Cadet Unit, who hold sailing sessions every other Friday during the summer.

We are also working very closely with Thanet District Council which allows us to provide sailing opportunities to local groups during school holidays.

We hope to see you at our club in the near future; whatever your level of experience on the water, you will be very welcome!

Andrew Hudson

Commodore