Our ethos

Tops’l is a cruising club, not a racing club. We sail because we enjoy it, and because we value being part of a crew. The club was founded on the principle that sailing as a member should feel as much like sailing your own boat as possible. We believe in shared responsibility, good seamanship, and learning by doing – and doing it together.

Safe, enjoyable sailing for all

The aim of Tops’l has always been to offer safe, enjoyable sailing on well cared-for yachts, without requiring formal qualifications. That said, we take our responsibilities seriously. The club has developed its own qualifying system, based on the RYA syllabus but tailored to fit how we operate. Members progress at their own pace, building confidence as they sail with Instructors and qualified Skippers.

New members are welcomed into the community and supported as they develop. Those joining with RYA qualifications or previous experience are encouraged to build on what they know. Over time, members can work toward their own Skipper qualification, with guidance and assessment provided by club Instructors.

Seamanship and safety

Seamanship matters at Tops’l. It doesn’t mean everything is always perfect, but it does mean we try to do things properly. That includes following procedures, working as a team, keeping the boats in good condition, and setting a good example for others.

Tops’l is self-regulated, and that brings responsibility. Skippers take full responsibility for their yacht and crew. Crew members share that responsibility too, looking out for each other and for the safety of the boat. We support one another, speak up when something isn’t right, and learn from every experience.

Learning and teaching

The club encourages every member to grow their sailing knowledge, whether you’re plotting a course, teaching someone to coil a line, or skippering a multi-day passage. Skills are passed on during real sailing, under real conditions. Instructors and Skippers can sign off items on the Tops’l Skipper syllabus as appropriate. Some skills can be demonstrated on the water, others discussed and reviewed.

Formal assessments are arranged by mutual agreement, and a small contribution toward the Instructor’s sailing costs may be requested when a dedicated training trip is arranged. Satisfactory demonstration of all skills does not automatically qualify a member as a Skipper, but progress is encouraged and recognised.

A club built on adventure

We go to sea because we love it – for the challenge, the calm, the problem-solving, and the unexpected. Some of our best memories come from quiet anchorages, early starts, or a textbook mooring after a long day. Tops’l is about more than ticking off qualifications. It’s about time on the water, trust in your crew, and the shared enjoyment of cruising under sail.

Curious to learn more or ready to get involved?

Get in touch – we’d love to welcome you aboard and answer any questions.