Baltic Wharf Sailing Club (BWSC) is a small, friendly, RYA-affiliated sailing club located in the heart of Bristol. The club welcomes new members of all levels, whether they are seasoned sailors or stepping into a boat for the first time. The focus of BWSC is not only on racing in the harbour most Saturdays but also on enjoying sailing for pleasure on weekends and during the week, all year round.
For beginners, BWSC aims to provide a relaxed and supportive environment for learning the basics of dinghy sailing. While the club does not offer formal lessons, beginner sailors have the opportunity to go out on the water with experienced sailors and get a taste of the sport. If they enjoy it, they are encouraged to become regular members of the club.
Experienced sailors are also very welcome at BWSC. The club has a range of single-handed and two-handed club boats available for use, allowing members the opportunity to sail with or race against other members in boats of different classes. Club boats can be used when the Powerboat is available to provide assistance if needed. Members who own their own boats may have the option of boat storage spaces, although there is often a short waiting list for these and a minimum membership period of three months is required before taking a space.
Situated on the south side of the Floating Harbour, near the Cottage Inn, BWSC primarily races at the west end of the docks, but occasionally races extend all the way up to the Arnolfini. When sailing for pleasure, the entire harbour is generally available to members.
For those interested in joining BWSC or simply trying sailing, they can reach out to Nick, the Membership Secretary, via email or visit Baltic Wharf on Saturday afternoons when the club is sailing to speak with a member in person. For other enquiries, they can email Mark, the Club Secretary, or Rich, the Commodore.
Membership fees for 2023 are as follows: Adult – 115, Senior (65+) – 73, Student – 57. 50 (full-time education). There is a 50% reduction for memberships purchased after August 1st. Boat storage fees are 135 per boat, with additional fees for HM compound (95) and Dutch barn (107).
Visitor sailors are welcome, with a daily fee of 10, or 5 for students in full-time education.
In addition to sailing, BWSC also arranges open meetings. These events have specific timings, including registration at 10:00, safety briefing at 10:30, first race at 11:00 (Head of the Harbour), two back-to-back races at 13:30, and prize giving at 16:00. Sailing instructions, joining instructions, and entry forms for open meetings can be found on the club's website.
Overall, Baltic Wharf Sailing Club provides a welcoming and inclusive community for sailing enthusiasts in Bristol. With opportunities for both racing and leisurely sailing, experienced sailors and beginners alike can enjoy the sport in a supportive environment.