Splashu offers an exciting and inclusive dinghy sailing programme, from regular training sessions and scenic sails to racing opportunities and residential weekends.
We’re passionate about helping Scouts, Explorers, Network members, and Adults develop their sailing skills through hands-on experiences and progressive RYA-aligned training. Whether you’re just starting out or working toward a sailing permit, we offer opportunities for skill development, assessments, and instructor pathways.
We have a fantastic partnership with the Lancashire School Sailing Association, making it easy to get afloat and keep building confidence on the water.
We’re always looking for enthusiastic sailors to support our sessions and events. If you’re confident in a boat and keen to help others discover the thrill of sailing, we’d love to hear from you!
📧 sailing@westlancsscouts.org.uk
There are many ways you can get your group on the water e.g. existing weekly sessions, borrowing kit and making use of local activity centers’. You can also submit an enquiry to us for a bespoke session, and our sailing lead will explore what’s possible (we cannot guarantee to accommodate every request).
Scouts & Explorer instructed Sessions
On Tuesday evenings Scout and Explorer groups can book onto taster sessions at Fishmoor reservoir. We have a range of craft that can be used, including pico’s, funboats and toppers. These run from approx. 6pm until 8:30pm and can accommodate 12 young people. Look out for the advertising flyers on WestLancs+ early in the year to book on.
Activity centres and clubs can also run sailing sessions on request for groups. Check-out our activity directory here – For opportunities local to you.
Take your own group on the water
We have access to sailing equipment that can be borrowed. Interested? Get in touch.
Younger sections
Dinghy sailing is not considered most suitable for squirrel and beaver sections
Summer Thursday evening skill development course
Explorers, Network members and adults who can already paddle to a basic level can develop their skills through a 7-week course at spademill run by Splashu instructors. The courses will be proceeded by an assessment day / weekend at an RYA Training centre to complete the RYA qualifications. These courses usually start in June. ENUQIRE NOW FOR 2026! .
Foundational skills courses
The RYA has a series of courses which provide foundational skills in sailing activities. These courses are a fantastic way to starting your sailing journey and offered through many clubs and activity centres.
We aim to increase availability of such courses to West Lancs Members, so please do submit an enquiry if your interested in attending a course.
Advanced skill development and courses
The best way to develop and enhance your skills is through joining a club. However, we will organise advanced courses e.g. seamanship skill, sailing with spinnakers, and tailor them where there is interest.
Regular sailing opportunities
For 2026 we’re exploring regular sailing opportunities at Fishmoor reservoir, where an instructor will be on hide to help you improve your sailing technique.
What is a permit?
To lead a water activities session for young people, as a Scout instructor, you will need an activities permit. To gain one you make an application to an assessor for the activity you want to lead, and they check your skills, experience and suitability for the permit requested
Starting point
To gain a permit, you will need to demonstrate competency in the activity you want to lead, and skills in working with groups of young people. Getting on the water regularly and working towards RYA qualifications is a strong path to gaining a permit
Support to gain a permit
Splashu is keen to support those who wish to gain permits. We can offer access to skills development courses and a buddy to support progression towards a permit. In some cases, we may be able to offer support towards funding. Support is also available via the adventurous activity development team. More information can be found here https://westlancsscouts.org.uk/activities/adventurous-activity-permit-scheme/
Permit assessment opportunities
Splashu can organise permit assessments ad-hoc, during an existing activity or through permit assessment events. Either book onto one of our upcoming permit assessment days, or drop us an enquiry to see if we can accommodate an individual assessment.
Join the team & instruct
We are always looking for help on the water. If your an instructor or an enthusiast keen to help on the water, pleas get in touch!.
Our ambition is to offer a programme of expeditions and international sailing trips. We are keen to hear from experienced dinghy sailors, with an interest in mentoring young people, leading adventurous journeys, and shaping unforgettable experiences on the water. Whether your passion lies, we welcome your expertise and enthusiasm to help inspire the next generation of instructors
Tuesday evening Information for groups available here
What badges and awards can we get?
There are loads of scout badges that you can achieve, from Time on the Water to the Sailing Staged Activity badges. At your first session you could achieve a Nautical Skills staged activity badge.