Costs

All Tops’l members are effectively part owners of the club’s assets, through the purchase of shares. As a not-for-profit organisation, we aim to keep sailing as affordable and flexible as possible. We use a combination of a one-time share purchase, a monthly subscription, and a pay-as-you-sail system, ensuring fairness for everyone.

What will it cost to join us?

There are three main costs involved in joining Tops’l:

Share purchase

• A one-time investment when you join, which gives you part-ownership of the club’s yachts.
• There is a minimum purchase of 600 shares at £3.59 per share = £2,154*
• Shares must be held for at least five years and can be redeemed when you leave, at the latest share price.

*Tops’l share price valid until the 2025 AGM.

Monthly subscription

A low ongoing fee that covers general running costs and keeps the club operating smoothly.

• Crew Membership: £38 per month
• Skipper Membership: £56 per month
• Family Membership: add £12 per month to bring family and friends
• Children and grandchildren under 18 can sail for free

Daily sailing charge

Once you’re a member, the cost of sailing depends on how often you get out on the water. We operate on a pay-as-you-go system where you pay for the time you spend sailing. Summer sailing charges are:

• £57 per day per berth (before any discounts)
• Family Exclusive Use: £228 per day for your exclusive use of the entire boat (before any discounts)

Between November and March, the same charges apply, but members and their friends and family may sail for two days for the price of one.

There is an additional charge of £10 per engine hour, which covers fuel and engine wear. Away-from-base mooring charges are also shared between the crew.

Discounts for members

To keep things fair, members receive Annual Sailing Vouchers based on their shareholding. For every 100 fully paid shares, you will receive one voucher per year, which knocks £20 off your daily sailing charge. You can use these vouchers for yourself or your crew, helping to reduce costs over time.

Other expenses

Other boat-related expenses incurred by the crew during a trip – such as the purchase of additional fuel, gas, spare parts, or incidental maintenance items – are reimbursed by the club.

In the event of an accident, the crew is liable for the lower of either the repair cost or the first £1,000 of the insurance excess.

Get in touch for further information.