Get More Active Get Together – Papercourt Sailability

Last week, Coalition members returned to the ever-popular Papercourt Sailing Club Sailability session. A group of 15 members attended supported by carers and Coalition staff. The recent bad weather was a cause for concern but on the day we were lucky – the rain stayed away but there was still enough wind for the sailing boats!

Papercourt Sailability is run by knowledgeable and helpful volunteers every other weekend over the summer. There are plenty of accessible options to get out on the water. For those that prefer to access a boat directly from land there is the Wheels on Water boat. This is a motorised boat that you can walk or wheel directly on to.

The dual access dinghies are accessed from a jetty with plenty of support from volunteers and a hoist if needed. These are sailed alongside a volunteer with the opportunity to do some of the sailing yourself and over time work towards a qualification if you want. For those that prefer a larger boat, there is the crabber “Lady Jay” which is also accessed from the jetty.

Our members chose the best option for them and soon we were out on the water enjoying the wind in our hair and the sights and sounds of the wildlife. There were lots of different wildfowl with their young and even the occasional fish leaping out of the water!

It was an afternoon full of smiles and laughter. We all enjoyed the fresh air and the opportunity to meet new people and catch up with old friends. And of course we enjoyed a cup of tea and a slice of the delicious homemade cakes on offer!

If you’d like to try out sailing for yourself there is no need to book – just turn up during one of the session times. All sessions are free of charge. The next sessions are on the 19th June, 3rd, 17th and 31st July from 1.30pm until 4.30pm and you can find out more information via the following link: Sailability – Papercourt Sailing Club

Our project was made possible thanks to National Lottery players.