 Sailing is Britain’s most successful Olympic sport with 5 medals claimed in the last Games, but when it comes to reaching a wide audience, it doesn’t do nearly so well. Part of the reason, and probably the largest factor is the sheer cost of buying and maintaining a boat. There are undoubtedly many who would love to get involved but simply cannot afford it.
SmartSail, sailing made simple
SmartSail is a leisure-sailing system which allows its members, at a minimum cost the opportunity to go sailing. Members pay just £35 per month with no signing on fee or hidden costs. For the same price as having satellite television or gym membership, you can buy regular monthly sailing all year round.
This will enable sailing to potentially reach a far greater market than ever before by distancing the sport from the expensive, elitist and very traditional attitudes.
SmartSail will provide the uplifting, freedom of the sailing experience to everyone who has ever dreamed of having the wind in their hair and peace away from the real world. SmartSail makes dreams a reality providing all the positive aspects without the negatives.
John Rennie, Chairman
John Rennie was born into a renowned theatrical, cinema and ‘show-biz’ family and spent his youth living the Hollywood dream in Los Angeles.
After moving to England aged 12, John completed his education in France before moving into the insurance industry as a specialised consultant.
Having only started sailing for the first time in 2004, John instantly fell in love with the sport and competed in the 2005 ‘Round The Island Race’ as well as owning a 44 ft yacht in which he recently cruised around the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
John’s desire to make sailing more accessible to more people is what prompted him to come up with the SmartSail concept, ‘Having never been a sailor myself, I was hooked and knew I had to get involved with sailing. However, for many people, this simply isn’t a viable option owing to the great expenses that are incurred. SmartSail removes the financial headache, allowing those who love sailing to continue to do so, whilst bringing those not yet lucky enough to experience life at sea into the picture like never before.’
Costs
Charges based upon a 12 month membership (payable monthly by standing order).
| Membership Package | Smart 21 | Smart 27 | | 4 weekdays per month annually | £35 per month | £80 per month | | 4 weekdays plus 2 weekend days per month annually | £75 per month | £150 per month | | Additional days | £15 per day | £25 per day | | Sailing Buddy | £30 per day | £30 per day |
Once the member has decided which of the above packages best suits them, then it’s time to decide their ‘home base’. This will be the one that the member sails from normally, it doesn’t have to be the one geographically closest to them but this will probably be the most convenient for the majority of people.
The member can then just choose when they want to sail.
That is it. If only everything could be so simple.
Bases
Ocean Village, Southampton (Flagship Base) - confirmed
Chichester Marina - confirmed
Swanwick Marina - under negotiation Members can sail between bases during daylight hours and leave Smart yachts at any base.
Booking
Online via the SmartSail website or over the phone
Bookings to be made 10 days prior to sailing date
Safety
All yachts are to be fitted with the latest satellite tracking systems
Ribs to be available at each base
Members can be fetched from boats or towed if in difficulty
All safety equipment to be provided
Yachts manufactured by Luhrs Marine The Fleet
Smart.27
The Smart.27 is the perfect sized cruiser for both the experienced sailor and for those who wish to hone their skills. Big enough to allow some serious sailing but at the same time very easy to manage it provides the perfect balance, and has more than enough room to bring your friends or family for a day’s cruising.
With an open plan main saloon, galley and fore-cabin, which offers a private head/shower compartment, as well as private double aft cabin; there is plenty of space below deck to make your trip as comfortable as possible. The galley is designed to maximize the below deck space, allowing you to prepare food whilst your fellow sailors relax in the saloon.
The 27 will be configured to the Cruising Version which includes hot water, shorepower, marine head and ice chest, allowing you to make the most of your enjoyment on the water.
With a blend of beautiful exterior lines and a spacious, comfortable interior, the Smart.27 is a superb member of the SmartSail range, ideal for those who want more flexibility from their sailing.
Highlights
Fully equipped
Fully coded for UK Costal Waters
CE marked
Sleeps 4 in comfort in 2 cabins
Spacious, light and roomy with a head and on-board shower
Smart.21
 The little sister of the Smart.27, the Smart.21 is a truly fun boat to sail. Regardless of your level of experience, you’ll find this boat is fun, fast, and simple to sail. Her hull design is a modern blend that stimulates quick acceleration while providing a confident level of stability - excellent for weekend cruises with the family.
You’ll find plenty of crew space in the cockpit - wide and deep enough to provide a good measure of comfort and safety. The rigging is close to hand with a hydraulic lifting centerboard, ideal for sailing in shallow waters. Sailing is simple yet technically advanced.
The boat is constructed using the patented ACP (Advanced Composite Process), which ensures absolute safety on the water. Even if filled totally with water, this boat will stay afloat.
The Smart.21 is a great choice for those keen to get into sailing, and also for those who want to practice their technique in a small, highly maneuverable yacht.
Highlights
Fast and exciting
Large cockpit
Cuddy cabin
21 feet
Safe and fun
Both yachts are to be fitted with the latest satellite tracking systems to ensure that SmartSail can come and find you if assistance is required. Built by quality manufacturers to the highest standards, SmartSail boats will ensure you have both a safe and comfortable time on the water.
Qualification Requirements
Option 1 - RYA Day Skipper Theory and Practical plus Maritime Radio Certificate of Confidence
Option 2 - RYA Day Skipper Theory plus RYA International Certificate for Operator of pleasure craft (sail/coastal)
plus Maritime Radio Certificate of Confidence
 However, if you do not hold the necessary qualifications, or you feel like taking it easy for the day, we can provide you with a ‘Sailing Buddy,’ an RYA qualified skipper who will take the responsibility of casting-off, setting sail, navigating and bringing the boat back to its mooring. This service will cost the modest fee of £30, allowing someone else to take the helm whilst you sit back and relax.
Friends Onboard
As a SmartSail member, you can invite up to 5 friends who need not be members to join you on board each time you sail.
Overnight
Members are able to cruise between SmartSail bases during daylight hours and then stay onboard overnight at the SmartSail bases.
Contact Information
SmartSail will be open from May 1st, 2006 onwards. For further details, call 0845 021 0010, or vist their website www.smartsail.net.
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