Frequently Asked Questions
How do I join?
You can either visit our Membership page and click the link for buying membership, or contact the Membership Secretary via the Contact page.
Is there a waiting list?
No. We are open to new members.
Do you have any berths available?
We have limited berthing spaces for dinghies, and high demand. As a result, we ask you to contact the Membership Secretary to enquire for availability prior to purchasing a berth.
Do you run courses for beginners?
Yes! Visit our training pages to find out more about the vast array of opportunities we provide for learning to sail. We also run courses for those who are more experienced, but would like to improve or achieve a higher level certificate. Our courses are RYA certified.
How do I hire a dinghy?
The club's fleet of dinghies are available for hire during scheduled sailing sessions. A dinghy can be booked in advance online. Alternatively, arrive at the clubhouse, and sign out a dinghy in the galley using the signing out book. Ensure you have your payment countersigned by those on duty.
Does rescue cover have to be available before sailing can commence?
Private dinghy owners may sail without rescue cover outside of scheduled hours. However, it is done so at entirely your own risk.
Club boats must not be launched until a rescue boat is available on the water.
Is there a maximum age?
No! With different types of dinghy classes and the ability to reef sails, there is always an opportunity for everyone to get on the water, regardless of age, weight or size.
Is there a minimum age?
Children must eight or above to complete a sailing course.
Can I bring guests?
Guests may be brought to the club, but they must sign in to the Guest Book found on the bar. Guests may visit up to three times before membership must be bought to facilitate further visits.
What are duties and am I expected to do some?
Duties are either in the roles of Officer Of The Day, Assistant, or Rescue Driver. The duties are allocated to all members, and the roles and sessions you are allocated are suited to experience and ability. Those new to duties are also paired with experienced members to ensure you have support and guidance. Members will be allocated up to 4 duties per season. They can be swapped for alternative dates if required using DutyMan.
The club is not able to function without you, and this is also a great opportunity to get to know other members much better.
Can I swim, windsurf, canoe, kayak, etc?
No other water based activities are permitted on the lake.
What type of dinghy can I sail at Ely?
All classes of dinghy up to 14 foot in length can be sailed at Ely. Dinghies over 14ft may be sailed, but permission from the committee must be sought first. Please email the secretary to request permission.
When is the bar open?
The bar is open to members only, usually after every scheduled sailing session. The bar is not open to the general public. The bar opens during the off season on every first and third Friday of the month from 19:30.
Can I hire the clubhouse?
Members may hire the clubhouse for a small fee. Please email the secretary to find out more.
What social events take place?
Some events are scheduled, such as the Laying Up Supper and the Christmas Dinner. Others are organised and advertised throughout the year. Previous events range from Casino Nights, Summer Balls, Entertainment Evenings, Bar Games Nights, and more. Any events are advertised on the homepage, Facebook page, and by email. Members are encourage to suggest social events and volunteer to organise them.
Last updated 20:56 on 30 January 2024