The RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show 2024 supported by Sunsail is gearing up to deliver an action-packed weekend for watersports enthusiasts from 24-25 February at Farnborough International.

With over 70 Class Associations, from windsurfing iQFOiL and Techno classes to the Devon Yawl, Comet and Mirror, visitors will have the opportunity to connect and explore training, cruising and event opportunities this sailing season and find the perfect fit for them.

Exciting launches

The National Firefly Association stand (C34) will be commemorating 75 years since the Olympic Games Firefly with the F503 ‘Jacaranda’, which competed at the 1948 Olympic Games, alongside their popular latest Ovington-built boat. The class boasts inclusive, sustainable and affordable racing, a new sense of energy with increasing numbers of young people coming to NFA events and joining the committee as well as a vibrant team racing scene.

Join the ISO Class Association to discover the Mark 2 ISO’s fun fast and forgiving boat with an enhanced deck layout. Learn more about the accessible pathway to fast, stress-free sailing on stand L24. They will also be talking affordable club and traveller racing strategies from 2pm both days.

Meanwhile, Melges stand (A11) will launching the Melges UK Class Association. Find out more on the stand.

Engaging talks and presentations

Showgoers can look forward to a lineup of engaging talks and presentations throughout the weekend. Visit stand H10 where the Dinghy Cruising Association will spotlight women sailors, showcasing three boats owned and operated by passionate female members dedicated to dinghy cruising. Also learn about the environmentally friendly and cost-effective benefits of dinghy cruising.

Don’t miss introduction to WASZP sailing with James Crossley and Noah Fitzgerald at the Performance Academy‘s stand (L34) on Saturday 11-12pm and Sunday 3-4pm. On Saturday Hattie Rogers will also be giving her ‘top tips’ and answering your questions 3-4pm and again on Sunday 11-12pm.

Optimist sailors can gather and receive rigging advice from the lead IOCA coach, both days 2-3pm on stand O24.

National 12 Boat Owners Association will be hosting three talks on stand B43. On Saturday don’t miss “Designing a National 12” with Dave Hollom, and “Sailing with children” with championship winner Graham Camm. On Sunday, “How winged rudders work” with Tom Lee, Chair of the N12 Technical Committee.

At stand F31, RS Sailing will host the RS21 UK & Ireland Class Association, with an announcement about upcoming world events at 2pm Saturday.

Talk tech and head to stand A18, where Nacra UK, sailors will be available to discuss technical aspects and all things Nacra sailing.

Competitions and anniversaries

Attendees can participate in various competitions and celebrate milestone anniversaries. The UK Cadet Class stand (L16) invites attendees to engage in the ‘Spinnaker Challenge’. See if you can post the fastest time for a spinnaker hoist, set, gybe, set and drop.

Make you way to the Merlin Rocket stand (I30) to save on early entry to the Aspire National Championships, enter to win an In The Welsh Wind gin set, bid on an Ezi Launcher, discover the newest Winder Merlin Rocket build and its modifications, and engage with fellow sailors to gain insights into circuits and championships.

2024 will see significant anniversaries celebrated across the show, including the 2000 Class Association’s 25th Anniversary on stand A17 and RS Sailing’s 30th Birthday Party. RS Sailing stand F30 presents exclusive offers and a chance to win a full re-rope of any dinghy worth up to £350!

Go and try out the windsurfing simulator, available both days at the windsurfing hub on stand R40 and meet representatives from the iQFOiL and Techno293. A great way to find out about the world of windsurfing.

Get your ticket now

RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show 2024 supported by Sunsail promises a packed out show catering to sailors and boardsports fans of all levels and interests.

RYA Members can access a complimentary ticket worth £21 for one or both days of the event, while kids aged 15 years and under, go free! Get your show ticket now.

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