We do not expect you to purchase sailing gear for your course, below are items we suggest packing.

If you wish to buy proper sailing clothing, ‘offshore’ level of protection is more than sufficient. You can purchase good quality sailing gear at any yacht chandlers, we recommend Pirates Cave:

https://www.piratescave.co.uk/

  • Packed Lunch for each day, tea and coffee will be provided throughout the course.
  • Wet Weather Clothing (“Oilskins”) Wet weather clothing hire is available for hire, sizes are limited you can hire on the day of your course or in advance through the office. The charge is £7 per set per day, capped at £25 per event. We advise waterproof walking clothes with a built-in hood sufficient but make sure you will be warm enough by wearing layers.
  • Sailing Shoes – Ordinary trainers (or waterproof trainers) are acceptable but ensure that soles are non-marking, bear in mind that water does splash overboard thus your feet may get wet. Ordinary Wellington boots may be OK for a weekend, but you would have to be careful when moving on deck because they tend to have slippery soles. Basic, decent quality boots cost about £50, top quality breathable Gore-Tex boots cost from £150 upwards and are worth the investment if you are going to do a lot of sailing.

Unfortunately, we do not have sailing boots / deck shoes for hire. 

  • Clothing – Warm, comfortable clothes or cool clothes – according to the weather. But it’s always colder on the water.  So even in summer bring a warm jacket.
  • Hat – a woolly hat in cold weather. Sun hat in sunny weather (very important)
  • Sailing gloves – These protect your hands, and the suede or Kevlar finish make it easier to grip ropes. There are also thermal versions for winter sailing.
  • Lanyard – to keep your glasses attached.
  • Seasickness pills – (if you think you might need them), we suggest the purchase the non-drowsy tablets.
  • Sun cream – even in winter
  • Bottled water – if you do not wish to drink water from the boat.
  • Snacks – you are welcome to bring any snacks, cakes, etc onboard.

Pack all your personal effects into a small, soft bag or bags which are easy to store below deck and keep your gear separate from everyone else’s.

If you require accommodation during your course with Elite Sailing the below are nearest to the Marina.

  • Travelodge

Western Avenue, Chatham Historic Dockyard, Chatham, ME4 4NT Sat nav postcode: ME4 4TY

https://www.travelodge.co.uk/hotels/598/Chatham-Maritime-hotel

Tel: 08715 591878

  • Ship & Trades:

Maritime Way Chatham Maritime Chatham ME4 3ER

https://www.shipandtradeschatham.co.uk/rooms

Tel: 020 7365 0519