IT'S MORE FUN AFLOAT!

Dart Sailability is a charity that enables anybody with a physical or mental disability to enjoy sailing, boating and social activities on the beautiful River Dart. All ages are welcome. Run by volunteers (of which we never have enough), we take to the water as often as possible tides permitting, from spring to mid autumn. Some boats can accommodate wheelchairs and we have hoists to give easy access to the other boats. Our simple rule of thumb is "if you can sit you can sail"!

Please note though we do not provide personal care so please bring your carer if needed. Under 18's need a parent or guardian's permission, and an adult must accompany them. We run regular free taster sessions so please come and give it try (trainers, warm clothing and a waterproof are strongly recommended as well as a hat, sunscreen and water). Thereafter membership is just £50.00 a year.

Robert

I joined Dart Sailability, in 2001. I immediately loved the feeling of freedom as I sailed away, leaving my wheelchair behind. Each sailing day is an adventure.

Anne

An experience on the water is available for anyone who might have believed they were excluded. I think a fellow sailor puts it very well: “When I’m out sailing, I don’t feel disabled.”

Abigail

Abigail is quadriplegic, has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and is visually impaired. We can't thank Dart Sailability enough. They go that extra mile to make sure everyone thoroughly enjoys their time on the river.

I’m paraplegic due to a spinal injury, which was caused by falling off my horse when I was thirteen. I didn’t imagine sailing again. That is, until I went to Dart Sailability. What can I say? It’s amazing, life changing, I love it!

NEWS AND UPDATES

Towing training session

October 12th 2024 - huge fundraiser

Pre season training underway

STAYING AFLOAT!

The estuary of the River Dart is a beautiful place to go sailing and we want to make it as accessible as possible. Achieving that objective has its challenges as boats have to be special adapted to suit a variety of needs. Special equipment may be required to allow our sailors to come aboard. Then of course comes the purchase of the boats themselves and the regular maintenance the fleet requires. It all adds up to approximately £27,000 per annum to keep the operation afloat (fortunately most of our 'fuel' comes free). Then last but not least is our army of unpaid volunteers of which we can never have too many! They are paid in tea and biscuits. We have several ways you can help us pay our way and if you'd like to know more please click on the link. Like the thought of becoming a volunteer? Then please please don't be bashful we'd love to have you along for the ride, click here to find out more.