Sailing experience

Unforgettable sailing experiences with Tops’l

At Tops’l, every sailing trip is an opportunity to do something different. Whether you want to drift along the coast on a quiet evening or head for blue water, you’ll find experiences here that suit your pace and interests.

A unique adventure awaits you

We offer much more than just access to yachts. Our members enjoy varied and flexible sailing options, from quick getaways to longer cruises. You can join a planned trip with others, head out with your own crew, or even take the helm yourself when you’re ready.

Here’s a taste of what’s possible:

Day trips

Take a yacht out for a single day or even just a summer evening. Members often make the most of free evenings, when boats are available at half price after 4pm. If you’re thinking about joining, we’ll happily invite you on a day sail to experience club life first-hand.

Weekend sails

Our most popular format. Two days and a night on board offers the perfect mix of adventure and downtime. These trips often get us to a secluded spot on the Isle of Wight, down to the edges of the New Forest, or into the sheltered waters of Chichester Harbour and Southampton Water. There’s usually a cosy pub not far from wherever we drop anchor.

Offshore sailing

Offshore sailing is a real highlight for some of our members. Previous trips have reached the Mediterranean and the Azores, while more typical passages include crossing the English Channel or heading for the Isles of Scilly.

Summer cruises

Every season, one of our yachts is dedicated to an extended cruise lasting the whole summer, giving the opportunity to get further afield. Members can sail with other members, or book the boat exclusively for a week for family and friends to sail wherever the cruise is destined. Recent cruises have explored Scotland, Ireland, the Netherlands, and the West Country.

Sailing experiences for all levels

Many of our members join with the objective to learn more and upskill. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced offshore skipper, there’s room to grow. Our members range from Competent Crew to Day Skipper, Coastal Skipper, and beyond. No matter your level, there’s always a new place to discover, a new skill to learn, or a new crew opportunity waiting.

Mentored sailing

If you’re aiming to become a Skipper or take the next step to Offshore Skipper, you can pair up with a mentor to build skills and confidence while still enjoying the trip.

Checkouts

When you’re ready, we’ll support you to take full responsibility for a yacht and crew. Checkouts are a chance to put everything you’ve learned into practice. And don’t forget to take your mentor, it’s time to show them what you have learned.

Sail the South Coast or further afield

Tops’l is perfectly placed to explore one of the UK’s most iconic sailing grounds. Sail past Cowes, into Chichester Harbour, or drop anchor at Newtown Creek or Beaulieu River. The waters around the Isle of Wight and up to the South West coastline offer countless sheltered spots and scenic harbours.

Where you go depends on your plan, your crew, and your confidence – our flexible yacht share model puts the adventure in your hands.

Ready to come aboard?

Find out more about Community sailing or explore Membership options today.