National news
Community lottery funding the Edinburgh Civil Service Sailing Club
Catriona was delighted to receive funding from the CSSC community lottery to help more members enjoy the thrill and excitement of a day’s sailing at the CSSC Edinburgh Sailing Club.
We spoke we Catriona to find out what it’s like out on the water.
How many CSSC members do you hope can join you on your taster days?
“Up to 12 people - over the course of an afternoon or morning can join in with a sailing taster day.” – Sailing is very weather dependent, not just in terms of how much wind is around, but it’s much more fun in the spring and summer on a nice day. Even the very best sailors still go in the water, sometimes on purpose, so warmer water really helps, especially for those who may not have sailed before.
What types of boats do the Edinburgh Sailing Association have?
“The dinghies (small boats, not rubber dinghies) we usually use are called Quests. They belong to the Sea Cadets and are designed as training boats. We also have access to single-hander dinghies called Picos and occasionally have the opportunity to use RS Zests and 2000s”
What can non-sailors expect from one of your taster days?
We’re keen to use these funds to help both sailors and non-sailors find their sea legs so to speak and help as many people get out on the water as possible. “You’ll be paired with one of our ECSSC members and will spend about an hour on the water learning some basic sailing terms and techniques. You’ll get a safety briefing and personal instruction from one of our members. Weather and sea state permitting you’ll hopefully get the opportunity to sail the boat yourself. You’ll be watched over by a safety boat with qualified crew and you’ll have all the safety gear you’ll need to feel comfortable, such as buoyancy aid, wetsuits, waterproofs and helmets.”
Be honest – how cold is it?
“Conditions on the water usually amplify those ashore! So, it may be a bit breezier and colder - we’ll advise you on what to bring along (especially to keep warm).
But the aim is not to go in, so if it’s a nice gentle day you’ll have a great time seeing nature from a whole new perspective.”
Who can benefit from a sailing taster day?
“Sailing is suitable for people of all ages. Our club has members who work in Scottish Public services, or who have retired. The Sea Cadets and other organisations cater for children and young people.” Some sailing clubs can even help wheelchair-bound and disabled people enjoy the thrills of the water while learning the ropes.
What do you hope participants get from taking part in sailing?
“Part of the joy is being out in the fresh air and being away from whatever stresses you have in life. Sailing is an activity you can grow into and settle into a level that suits you. Some members are happy to crew (help balance the boat) while others take the helm (steer the boat and set its course). Some people get into racing although we are very much about just getting out and enjoying.”
Is it easy to take up sailing?
“It is with the ECSSC and our association with the Sea Cadets. All the equipment you need is provided. Experienced and qualified members of the Sea Cadets and the ECSSC oversee all activity. It’s just taking that first step… it can be daunting at first but you soon get used to it.
Do you sail on a lake or the sea?
“We sail on the Firth of Forth out of Port Edgar Marina at South Queensferry. We normally sail on Thursday evenings from April-September, and if you let us know in advance, we’re happy for a few people to join us as a taster on one of those regular evenings. We also arrange sailing at the weekends depending on members' availability and any commitments the Sea Cadets have.”
What advice can you give to those who may have never sailed before?
“At first it seems difficult, and it can be a bit scary getting out on the water. But we won’t go out if the weather is too bad! You learn about the wind and how the sails can be best positioned to catch it. Sailing has a language all its own (things that you’d recognise as ropes we call sheets or halyards. The thing that looks like a big white sheet – that’s the main sail!). So – don’t be afraid to ask questions.”
What do you get from sailing?
“Fresh air, exercise, challenge, achievement, confidence, teamwork, friendship and of course a beer afterwards!”
How did we partner with the sea Cadets?
“The Edinburgh Civil Service Sailing Club (ECSSC) started in the 1970s. At that time the Civil Service included the Post Office and many of our original members, and some of the club’s initial funding came from the Post Office/BT. The ECSSC began an association with the Royal Navy Sailing Association (RNSA) based at South Queensferry. The RNSA’s day job was to train forces personnel to sail. The ECSSC borrowed the RNSA boats on a Thursday evening for Club sailing. That association with the RNSA was maintained for 50 years and through a recent reorganisation and development that delivered a new purpose-built Sailing Centre at Port Edgar managed by the Sea Cadets.”
Can members come along and watch if they’re not confident the first time?
“Yes, come along for a chat. See how we get prepared, launch and return. We may be able to get you out on the Safety Boat to let you see what it’s like on the water. Speak to us in advance and we’ll advise on clothing (you’re unlikely to need the wet suit etc).”
Can people bring their family?
“Yes, we’re a very welcoming community. They can watch your preparation and there are areas in Port Edgar from which they can get a good view of the boats out on the Forth. You might be on the water for an hour or so – there’s a café, a restaurant, shop and other interesting things to see while you’re off enjoying yourself! Or they could go for a walk and explore the Forth Bridges Trail. There may also be an opportunity for them to join in.”
Is it safe?
“Yes, very. But, as with any activity wear the correct equipment, listen to the safety brief and follow the instructions. Sailing is about coping with the elements. So, we’ll take into account the tide, the wind, the sea state, whether there’s heavy rain etc. You need to be a competent swimmer, just in case you fall in the water.
Is it friendly?
“Very much so. If you’re in a 2 or 3-person boat you each play a part in sailing the boat, the helm, in particular, will be advising you on what you need to do and checking with you on your readiness before they change the direction of the boat, what you can expect to happen and what you need to do once the manoeuvre is complete. In between times, you’ll have a good old chat – if you’re really lucky you’ll get paired up and serenaded by one of our members who has a penchant for musicals and nursery rhymes!”
If, like Catriona, you’d like to request funding from the CSSC community lottery to help your local area host taster days or activities, keep your eyes peeled for the next funding window application, which is opening soon.
