A Navy under sail
The Yarmouth Rally is an annual ‘get-together’ for the Royal Naval Sailing Association, and this year was combined with the Inter-command Regatta, providing a snapshot of sailing with the Royal Navy.
Trochus is one of the Victoria 34s owned by the Joint Services Adventurous Sail Training Centre (JSASTC), which provides sail training for Armed Forces personnel to develop character and leadership skills, and allows them to gain RYA qualifications. JSASTC also operates larger Nicholson 55 and Challenge 72 yachts for offshore and ocean passages and the Halberg Rassy 34s recently bought back from the British Kiel Yacht Club in Germany will also be used.
The Royal Naval Sailing Association (RNSA) operates separately as a not-for-profit organisation, supported by members’ fees and grants from the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the RN Sports Lottery. It provides grass-roots opportunities for sailors across the Navy to enjoy sailing in all its forms, including cruising, dinghies, offshore and inshore yacht racing, power boating and windsurfing. Its offshore racing team members race a J109, Jolly Jack Tar, (2016 national champions) as well as two smaller boats.
All other RNSA activities are open to any members whether serving, retired, or family members. There are regular cruises and races organised by the 10 RNSA branches around the UK. Members are often happy to take others out sailing. Other benefits include access to establishment yachts to charter, inexpensive moorings and RYA training.