Join us on this hands-on, exciting day out aboard Clipper 60 Taeping, a proven 60ft Ocean Race Yacht. Ideal for newcomers to the sport or more experienced sailors simply looking for a day out on the water. You can experience the thrill of sailing in a safe, relaxed environment, whilst really getting involved in the crewing of the yacht. You will have the opportunity to take the wheel of Clipper 60 Taeping as she powers through the Solent and feel the buzz of working on the front of the boat whilst she crashes through the waves.

When you arrive you will have an opportunity to look around Taeping, before the Skipper gives a short safety brief about the day. Then we will slip lines and motor out of the River Hamble to the famous waters of the Solent. This 30 mile stretch of water between England and the Isle of Wight, flanked at one end by the Needles and at the other by Napoleonic forts, provides some of the most popular cruising waters in the World. The Solent also plays host to Cowes Week, the biggest UK yachting regatta, as well as providing the start line for many Round the World Races and World Record attempts. Whatever the day and time of year there is always something to see in this busy stretch of water.

The exact course for the day will depend on the tides, but the Skipper will introduce you to lots of sailing manoeuvres during this hands on experience aboard a 60ft Ocean Race Yacht. You will be served a racing style baguette lunch under sail and this provides a great opportunity to sit back and enjoy the sailing before we return to the marina for 4pm.

Useful notes:

Where we sail: On the Solent, from HYS Marina in Hamble

Event time: 10am to 4pm

Maximum participants: 12

Boat: Clipper 60 Taeping

When: Selected Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from April to September.

You must be at least 12 to come on this day and if you are 12 to 17 you must book with a parent or guardian. There is no upper age limit.

There are a number of steps and a ladder inside the yacht, if you think you might need assistance to move around, we would ask you book with someone who can give you a helping hand.

Most frequently asked question about this sailing experience:

How is this day different from the Ocean Race Yacht Experience?

The main difference between the two sailing experiences, is that The Solent Sailing Experience is only available on midweek dates and aboard Clipper 60 Taeping, which is why it is a little cheaper.

Both events are very hands on and suitable for novice sailors to those with more sailing experience looking to get on the water. Our staff are there to ensure you get the most out of your experience with instruction about the principles of sailing before carrying out manoeuvres.

Therefore if a the recipient might find it hard to make a midweek date, then the Ocean Race Yacht Experience might make a better gift.