70 enthusiastic cadets set off for an exciting adventure, where sunshine, sailing, and ice cream came together to round off a successful cadet training weekend.

On Saturday, the children were grouped by ability and experience, working towards their RYA sailing certifications in the fun, supportive, and safe environment of our family-friendly club. Then on Sunday, blessed with bright sunshine and gentle wind, all the cadets - a mix of beginners and more experienced junior sailors - enjoyed a fantastic sailing trip to the Maldon Promenade.

Among the group were eight-year-old newcomers who had never stepped into a boat before, sailing alongside confident young sailors refining their skills. The Mirror and Sprite classes offered their support through our newly introduced Cadet Crewing Group, where complete newbie Cadets or non racers could experience social sailing on the river with their Cadet friends building confidence and skills from the more seasoned sailors and qualified Dinghy Instructors in the club.

Safety remained a top priority, with 10 safety RIBs on the water and 20 experienced instructors providing expert guidance and encouragement throughout the weekend. Parents involved as helpers were at the Prom to catch and assist the landing on the beach. They were also rewarded with a delicious Rossi ice cream.

The trip was a brilliant conclusion to an inspiring weekend, highlighting the amazing opportunities our sailing club offers to young sailors of all abilities.

Photos © Chris Keeble, Ronan Fenton, Belinda Hunt