Bisham Abbey Sailing and Navigation School, located in Marlow, is a reputable provider of RYA (Royal Yachting Association) training on the River Thames. With over 30 years of experience, they have established themselves as the longest-standing commercial RYA training centre on the non-tidal Thames. They cater to both the commercial and private sectors, offering marine-based training.
Their primary objective is to provide comprehensive face-to-face training and guidance to small groups of individuals. The school operates from their riverside training room, situated within the National Sports Centre. They have a fleet of 8 motorboats and 32 sailing dinghies, which they manage on the waterfront. Motor-boating activities take place from February to December, while sailing courses are available from Easter to the end of September.
During the winter and spring months, they conduct theory-based classroom courses.
Beyond their commercial operations, Bisham Abbey Sailing and Navigation School also generously shares their skills, equipment, and centre with a local charity called Accessible Boating Thames. This charity facilitates on-water experiences for individuals who may not otherwise have the opportunity to engage in such activities, utilising a variety of specialist boats.
Finding their training centre is straightforward, as they are located within the National Sports Centre on Marlow Road in Bisham, Berkshire. Travellers can reach them by train, with options such as taking the Paddington to Bath Line and alighting at Maidenhead station, followed by a short 6-minute taxi ride to the centre. Alternatively, travellers on the Marylebone to Birmingham line can disembark at High Wycombe station and take a 12-minute taxi ride. For those driving, taking the M4 to junction 8/9 and heading north on the A404 to the Bisham/Marlow roundabout will lead them to Marlow Road, where they will find the National Sports Centre located just 120 metres on the left.
The school also offers onsite accommodation for those who have travelled a long distance. Additionally, they have facilities available for charging electric cars. If prospective students or visitors have any inquiries about their courses or the available services, they can complete a form on the website to send their inquiry, and the school will respond promptly.
Previous customers have left positive feedback for the school. One individual commended the Day Skipper theory course, noting the instructor's excellent instructional technique and the warm, friendly ambiance of the training centre. Another participant praised the Inland Waterways Helmsman Course, describing it as a brilliant two days of tuition suitable for boaters of any level, thanks to the personalised instruction provided by the knowledgeable instructor.
Overall, Bisham Abbey Sailing and Navigation School is dedicated to delivering high-quality training and guidance in sailing and navigation. With their extensive experience, expert instructors, and commitment to accessibility and community engagement, they have become a trusted provider in Marlow and the surrounding areas.