Starting in May 2017, sailing taster sessions began to take place across Wales, the aim, to give young people the chance to try sailing and boating for the first time. The taster sessions were designed to give young people the opportunity to take part in sailing and boating activities with an emphasis on safety and fun.
Taster days took place in Colwyn Bay, Llannion Cove and Cardiff Bay. At each taster day all of the necessary equipment was provided, meaning the young people could turn up and get out on the water with minimal fuss.
In Colwyn Bay, the young people all had the chance to try out their sailing skills and had a fabulous fun day on the beach and in the sea. A free lunch was also provided and the whole event was photographed and filmed by TVConwy ( http://www.tvconwy.net ) . Similarly the Llannion Cove and Cardiff Bay taster days were filmed and photographed by local press and the RYA Cymru Wales team.
The children who attended the taster days thoroughly enjoyed learning to sail, taking ‘on board’ sea, water and boating safety before getting into a boat, all of which was delivered by experienced, friendly and competent staff and volunteers.
Keen to fuel their new found interest, over half of them signed up for the After School Activities Club in June and July in advance of the All Afloat Holiday Club over the summer holidays. These all contributed to them gaining their RYA Sailing Certificates.
The RYA Cymru Wales team was very pleased with the fabulous feedback from everyone – children, parents, teachers, staff and volunteers – the feedback amplified the real success of the All Afloat launch – a great start to helping children get hooked on sailing for life.
