Sailing Taster Session

ASC Portsmouth is running a Sailing Taster Session at the Andrew Simpson Centre on Sunday 28 June, from 13:30 to 15:30. It's a proper introduction for anyone who's never been on a boat before, run by the centre's instructors on the water at Langstone Harbour.

Over the two hours, you'll get the basics: how to steer, how to get on board safely, and how to actually move under sail. The whole thing is built around enjoying yourself and staying safe, so it's as much about having a laugh on the water as it is about the technique. The idea is to give you a real feel for the sport and help you decide if you want to commit to a full RYA course afterwards.

If Sunday doesn't work, there are plenty of other dates to choose from. The taster sessions run throughout the summer, with Sunday slots at 13:30 and Tuesday evenings from 18:00 to 20:00. You can pick up a spot on 30 June, 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, and 28 July, and then 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, and 25 July. It's open to all ages, so it works for adults and younger ones alike.

The Andrew Simpson Centre is on Eastern Road (PO3 5LY), right on the banks of Langstone Harbour. It's part of the Andrew Simpson Foundation, set up in 2014 and named after Olympic medallist Andrew 'Bart' Simpson MBE, with the goal of changing lives through sailing. Beyond the taster sessions, they run a wide range of courses and activities for all ages and levels: sailing, windsurfing, winging, foiling, powerboating, paddle sports, climbing, archery, and team games. The taster session starts from £40.