About us

A club with a proud history

Tops’l was founded in 1979 by a group of British Airways pilots who loved sailing but, due to their schedules, saw little point in each owning a boat. They came together to form a club where resources could be shared, creating an affordable and flexible way to sail.

More than four decades later, we are still going strong, with a fantastic community of members and three well-equipped yachts. Although the club has evolved over the years, the founding principles remain: a strong focus on seamanship, safety, skills development, and preventative maintenance.

When you join Tops’l, you’re not just gaining access to a boat, you are becoming part of a shared-ownership club where every member has a voice. We are run by sailors, for sailors, and every decision is made collectively. Whether you are just starting out or have been sailing for years, you will find help, advice, and encouragement from fellow members.

How it works

Owning a yacht is a big commitment, not just financially, but in time and effort. Tops’l makes it easy to enjoy sailing without the hassle. Instead of dealing with the costs and responsibilities of ownership, members share access to a fleet of top-quality yachts. You only pay for the time you spend on the water, making sailing both flexible and affordable.

Each of our three yachts offers a different sailing experience. Whether you want a relaxed coastal cruise, an offshore adventure, or the chance to develop your skills, there’s a boat to suit you. Our yachts are well looked after and fully equipped, so you can focus on enjoying the experience.

A club built on community

Sailing is about more than just getting from A to B, it’s about the people you sail with. At Tops’l, lifelong friendships are made, skills are shared, and unforgettable experiences are created. Some of our members even travel long distances just to sail with us, which speaks volumes about the club’s welcoming atmosphere.

We organise regular club sails, training sessions, and social events throughout the year. Whether you want to gain confidence, spend more time on the water, or get a feel for yacht ownership, Tops’l makes it easy to sail in a way that suits you.