Eling Sailing Club

250. Annual Fee Cadet 40.

Eling Sailing Club is located in the picturesque town of Southampton, at the head of Eling creek off the Test estuary. The Club House, which occupies half of the historic Eling Tide Mill, serves as the base for sailing events and features a club bar. Boat owners have access to a range of mooring options, including moorings on the wall at Eling, laid moorings on the mudflats in Eling Creek, and deepwater moorings near Bury Swinging Ground.

The club encourages its members to keep their dinghies in the Club's compound and provides access to the Club's own dinghy fleet. Throughout the sailing season, the club organises several series of cruiser and dinghy races, as well as club rallies to neighbouring harbours and clubs. For those looking for more adventurous sailing experiences, the club also arranges an annual flotilla crossing of the Channel. Crew places are available for members who don't own suitable yachts yet.

Apart from sailing activities, Eling Sailing Club boasts a vibrant social calendar organised by the Social Team, ensuring members can enjoy a variety of events off the water. The club also offers a range of training courses to promote safety at sea, conducted by in-club volunteers and outside companies.

The Club House, situated next to the Eling Tide Mill on the Toll bridge, offers a stunning view of the harbour. The clubhouse features a bar, club room, showers, and a kitchen, making it a perfect place to spend a sunny day.

For boat owners, the club's moorings provide a safe and affordable place to keep their vessels. The club offers both deepwater moorings for fin keelers and larger boats, which can be accessed via a tender provided by the club.

Membership at Eling Sailing Club is open to all age groups, from toddlers to experienced sailors. The club has a cheerful, friendly, and helpful atmosphere, with an emphasis on casual dress. It is a self-help club, and members are expected to contribute and help where they can. Experienced sailors are always available to provide guidance, advice, and assistance to less experienced members in areas such as yacht maintenance and seamanship.

To join the club, interested individuals can visit the club bar during opening hours and introduce themselves. Membership application forms can be downloaded from the club's website, and interested individuals should complete the form and submit it to the Membership Secretary along with a passport photo.

In terms of membership criteria, there was previously a residential limitation where membership was only open to those residing within a 25-mile radius of Eling Creek. However, this restriction has been lifted, and individuals outside this radius may now become members, subject to availability. The club reserves the right to refuse or withdraw membership during a 12-month probationary period. Membership options include Single, Family, and Cadet memberships, each with their respective joining fees and annual fees.

Eling Sailing Club offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for sailors of all levels, and is the perfect place to enjoy the beautiful waters of Southampton and beyond.