Watersports Users Guide
Watersports
At Stokes Bay Sailing Club, we’re not just about dinghy sailing — we’re all about celebrating the diverse world of watersports! Whether you’re into windsurfing, wing-foiling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sea, our Watersports Membership gives you the freedom to explore it all.
With this membership, you’ll have full access to the club’s fantastic facilities, including the perfect spot to rinse off your gear after a thrilling session, as well as the use of our changing rooms and hot showers. Plus, when you’re ready to relax, enjoy the club bar and galley (subject to opening times), where you can refuel and unwind after a day on the water.
Join us as a Watersports Member and experience the best of Stokes Bay — the perfect location, the best facilities, and a vibrant community of fellow watersports enthusiasts.
Activities
Wingfoiling
Fast, innovative and seriously addictive – this is the sport redefining what happens next, out there on the water! Whether you’ve got a need for speed or just want that effortless feeling of flight cruising into the sunset, wingfoiling delivers. The ever-growing crew of “wingers” enjoying Stokes Bay all share the same culture: pushing each other to the limits, sharing laughs at our wipeouts and learning from each other along the way. Having a secure space to rig your equipment, wash it down afterwards, have a hot shower to warm up, then sit down for a chat with fellow ‘wingers’, Stokes Bay Sailing Club offers it all.
Windsurfing
Wind surfing has long been a part of Stokes Bay. Many members have been windsurfing for decades, but with equipment ever changing, there is always something new to try. With a Watersports membership, you can windsurf in this large and sheltered area of The Solent, with hoses to wash your kit off after coming ashore, hot showers and access to the bar, galley and all social events. Why would you want to be anywhere else?
Swimming Health Benefits
It can improve your fitness levels and your metabolism.
• It may help with aches and pains.
• Improved hair and skin.
• It can improve your circulation.
• It may help to boost your immune system.
• It helps some people manage their mental health.
• It can reduce your stress levels.
• It can help people find a community by meeting friendly fellow swimmers.
• It gives you a natural high, leaving you feeling euphoric and exhilarated.
• It’s a great chance to get out and about in nature.
Credit: RNLI
Swimming
It’s a dank, miserable day in January and cold water swimming can seem like the craziest activity to pursue in the depths of winter. Ask yourself this: Do they look and sound miserable? Usually, the dippers or swimmers are shrieking or laughing (sometimes swearing) during the immersion into the 6°C seawater. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.
The bonds and friendships formed through any sporting activity can last a lifetime, increasing social activities, support and advice when needed most. Increased calories are burnt during swimming, which is an excellent excuse for a post cold water swim hot drink and cake (or a Vals super breakfast). Always remember ‘safety first’, never swim alone or in inclement weather. If in doubt, don’t go into the sea.
Kayaking
Kayaking on the changeable waters of Stokes Bay is an exciting experience that attracts many outdoor enthusiasts. The Bay offers a relatively safe location with a variety of water conditions providing both challenges and thrills for kayakers, as well as calm and atmospheric paddles.
By becoming a “Water Sports member” of the Stokes Bay Sailing Club, you gain access to excellent facilities including hot showers and secure kayak storage. This membership not only supports your kayaking adventures but also opens the door to a vibrant social scene at the club, very reasonable bar prices and access to food from the galley. Enjoy connecting with fellow members while sharing your passion for water sports and making lasting memories.
Paddle Boarding
Paddle boarding in Stokes Bay is a transformative experience. Embrace the peace and tranquillity of a dawn paddle, where the water mirrors the rising sun, or share laughter with friends on a sunny summer day. Each season offers its unique charm, whether it’s the warmth of summer or the crispness of a winter morning. Discover the joy of exploring nature, including spotting seals and occasionally dolphins, while gliding across the waters of this beautiful and interesting location.
A Stokes Bay Watersports member can enjoy the use of the changing rooms, an external pump to inflate your board and all that the club has to offer socially. Sit on the beach and watch others or launch your own board to have fun on the water.
Social Sailing & Watersports Adventures
SBSC is a gateway to all kinds of water fun—beyond racing!
- Relax in the Bay, head for ice cream, or explore nearby clubs
- Fleets sometimes sail to Ryde or Priory Bay
- Kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming groups are active
- Take your boat to explore the UK with RYA Dinghy Trails
Planning an
Adventure?
Don’t forget to:
- Check wind & weather
- Check tide times
- Bring safety gear: buoyancy aid, tow rope, communication
- Tell someone your plan
- Travel in groups
- Know your landing point
Membership
As a family friendly and welcoming club that caters to all types of watersports and sailing enthusiasts, we’re happy to bring people onboard!