SeaRegs Training took part in the Sutton Harbour RYA Active Marina Programme which had its launch on 28^th April 2012.
The day started with coffee and croissants and a talk by sailing celebrity Tom Cunliffe. Thirty berth holders took part in the oversubscribed event which was aimed at practical boat handling sessions combined with the opportunity to meet with Royal Yachting Association, marina staff and fellow berth holders.

The day focussed on practical boathandling for both sail and power featuring three 2-hour sessions where groups went out on boats and refreshed or learnt new skills. The sessions were aimed at building confidence for both skippers and crews in entering and exiting the lock and in manoeuvring within the marina and berthing alongside.

Simon Jinks of SeaRegs commented, ‘The blustery NE wind made it ideal conditions for the berth holders to learn how to get in and out of the lock safely and what techniques are used when coming alongside a pontoon or quay wall. We started off going through the theory of how a boat handles and then put it into practice at their pace. We all found it great fun and very satisfying and many of the participants have contacted me for some personal tuition on their own boats.’

Background
The RYA Active Marina programme is a bid to support marinas across the country to develop activity programmes for berth holders. The event based programme incorporates three aspects; training, cruising and social activities.

The training element looks to support a programme of workshop style training opportunities for berth holders to increase confidence and competence out on the water. The cruising aspect looks to develop activities such as cruises in company to expand people’s horizons and build confidence, whilst the social element seeks to assist with the formation and growth of Berth Holder groups and social activity within the marina.