Women On Water
The Women on Water programme aims to provide an activity that will support and grow female participation in boating. It aims to develop character traits, skills and water awareness with ongoing involvement to improve their health and wellbeing.
Women On Water is an RYA Northern Ireland initiative which helps introduce women into sailing and boating. It allows women of all backgrounds to learn and progress at activities including dinghy sailing, yachting, powerboating and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding.
Independent research published in 2023 highlighted that a “Lack of visibility of females from all corners of sailing is a barrier to participation” and “Male dominance in the sport is a barrier to females in many ways.” By offering a huge variety of opportunities, this programme aims to increase the diversity of the sailing and boating community in Northern Ireland.
Find your nearest club
Women On Water programmes can be shaped to the specific needs of each club. You can check out clubs in your area.
Women On Water Festival
Every year, RYA Northern Ireland organises a Women On Water festival. This is a one-day event which allows women to try a wide range of boats and allows them to spend time socialising with like-minded individuals.
Women On Water Development Programme
In 2024, RYA Northern Ireland launched the Women On Water Development Programme which aims to support clubs in boosting female participation by helping women over 18 to gain skills to progress in their chosen pathway.
The sessions in this programme are run by Women On Water Ambassadors.
The sessions planned for the future include;
- Skills development in Race Officiating
- Skills development in Team Racing
- Skills development in Dinghy Sailing / Racing
- Skills development in Powerboating
To find out more contact Lisa McCaffrey Lisa.McCaffrey@rya.org.uk