WHY GET WET!
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, physical activity, or a sense of community, sports like sailing, powerboating and windsurfing offer a huge range of benefits that make it a worthwhile and enjoyable pursuit.
- It’s for everyone. Sailing, powerboating and windsurfing are activities for all ages and all abilities – from grandparents to young children, everyone can enjoy being out on the water together.
- Blue Therapy: being on the water enables people to connect with nature, and can be both calming and invigorating. The combination of the rhythmic motion of the boat, the sound of water, and the fresh air can have a calming effect, helping to reduce stress and promote mental well-being.
- Physical Exercise: Sailing and windsurfing involve a range of physical activities meaning that you can get a full workout while you’re on the water – improving your strength, heart health and flexibility.
- Inclusivity: sailing and powerboating are suitable for all abilities and Irish Sailing supports programmes to increase accessibility and inclusivity on the water. As a competitive sport, sailing only splits genders at Olympic level meaning that below that level, everyone who sails, sails together.
- Sense of freedom and adventure: provides a sense of freedom and independence. The open water creates a liberating feeling, allowing you to explore and navigate at your own pace. Whether you're cruising along the coastline, exploring a lake or windsurfing at a new site, there's always a sense of discovery and new experiences.
- Life Skills: learning to sail or powerboat or windsurf teaches you a variety of life skills, including decision making, team-work, problem-solving, independence and adaptability, and resilience .
- Communications: Sailing often involves working as a team, whether with a small crew or in a larger racing setting. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for a successful and safe sailing experience.
- A strong community: It's a great way to socialize and make new friends.
- New skills: Learning to sail or powerboat or windsurf involves acquiring new skills, from understanding wind patterns to navigation and boat or board maintenance. Developing these skills can be stimulating and rewarding.