FAQs

WHAT BOATS DO YOU SAIL?

We host regular class and handicap racing for a variety of dinghy classes, including:

Solo, Salcombe Yawl, Merlin Rocket, National 12, RS200/400, Aero, and Lasers.

During the summer, non-class cruiser racing is organised, alongside an active social sailing section that arranges events and visits to local clubs.

WHEN DOES THE RACE SEASON START?

The main sailing season kicks off with The Commissioning Race in March. Racing takes place every Saturday, with additional mid-week races on Wednesdays during summer. The season concludes with the New Years Day race.

We also host numerous Open Meetings, Class Championships, and the annual Salcombe Gin SYC Regatta and Salcombe Town Regatta.

WHAT FACILITIES ARE THERE FOR MY FAMILY?

Salcombe boasts some of the UKs best sandy beaches, making it a perfect retreat for families. The area is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your four-legged companions!

Regular ferries run from The Ferry Steps to East Portlemouth, where youll find several child-friendly beaches. At low tide, you can walk along the shoreline, or take the main road when the tide is in.

MILLBAY BEACH

The largest of the East Portlemouth beaches, ideal for families and race spectating.
Dinghies may berth here with a permit (available HERE) for £10 per boat per week (maximum four weeks per year). Permits must be clearly visible at all times.
Public toilets are available in the Mill Bay car park.
A shallow freshwater stream provides a safe play area for toddlers.
A trolley transfer service is available at the start and end of regattas for competitors.

Please park dinghies neatly by the wooden posts and take all litter home.

ARE FAMILY MEMBERS OF REGATTA COMPETITORS WELCOME AT SYC?

Absolutely! All competitors are Honorary Members of the Club for the duration of the Regatta, and families are encouraged to join in the fun.

WHAT ARE THE CLUBHOUSE OPENING TIMES?

Check our website HERE for up-to-date opening hours. Generally:

Winter: Closed MondayThursday.
Summer: Open daily during regatta weeks and busy periods, otherwise closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

WHAT SOCIAL ACTIVITIES ARE AVAILABLE?

SYC is a vibrant, sociable club with regular events throughout the year. Visit our website calendar or follow us on social media for event listings. Many events require advance booking, so secure your spot early!

DOES SYC HAVE A JUNIOR SECTION?

Yes! Our Cadet Programme runs from May to September, based at Smalls Cove, opposite SYC.

Cadets learn essential sailing skills, including rigging, points of sail, launch/recovery, capsize drills, and racing basics, all at their own pace. Our fleet includes Topper, RS Zest, RS Feva, and classic Laser dinghies.

Sessions require parental support, with opportunities to assist onshore or afloat. The season features safety briefings, sail-aways, discounted cadet lunches, and an end-of-season celebration.

To join, please contact the office but please note, there may be a waiting list.

WHERE DO I LAUNCH MY BOAT?

Batson Public Slipway, Salcombe, TQ8 8DU. For further information, please click HERE.

WHERE DO I PARK MY CAR/BOAT/TRAILER?

Boats: We encourage Regatta Competitors to base themselves and sail from Millbay Beach (a FREE trolley transfer service is provided). For Open Meetings, if you would like to leave your boat in the Batson Dinghy Park, you will need to pre-book a space with the Salcombe Harbour Authority HERE
Boat Trailers: If you would like to leave your boat trailer in the Batson Dinghy Park, you will need to pre-book a space with the Salcombe Harbour Authority HERE
Horsecombe Farm trailer parking: For Merlin Rocket Week and Regatta Weeks, FREE trailer parking is available at Horsecombe Farm, (directions available on the Regatta page HERE).
Car Parking: Available at Salcombe Park & Ride and various Car Parks around Salcombe (More information HERE)

DO I NEED TO PAY HARBOUR FEES?

Yes! All users of the Kingsbridge/Salcombe Estuary must pay Harbour Dues.

Harbour Dues also apply to canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and rowboats—ensure you have the correct sticker before taking to the water.

For more information, contact Salcombe Harbour Authority HERE

The harbour is particularly busy in high season, so please navigate carefully, adhere to the 6-knot speed limit, minimise wake, wear lifejackets, and use a kill cord when operating outboard motors.

CAN I HAVE A SHOWER AT SYC?

Yes! We have both male & female changing rooms as well as a single occupancy changing room that all include 24/7 shower facilities & toilets. When the Clubhouse is closed, access is available via a separate rear entrance with entry code. (Code available from SYC Office or Salcombe Harbour Office)

CAN I HOLD A PRIVATE FUNCTION AT SYC?

Yes! SYC offers stunning views and multiple spaces for private events. Our experienced team has organised everything from business conferences to licensed weddings.

Event Spaces:

The Chart Room: Seats 40, includes a large screen for corporate events/training.
The Dining Room: Seats 70.
T'ween Decks Lounge: A relaxed mezzanine area.

Our Catering Team can create bespoke menus featuring locally sourced ingredients, from canapés to fresh seafood dishes.

Hire prices start at just £60 for half a day!

For any further enquiries, please visit our website or contact the SYC office.