Club History

Wells Sailing Club was founded in 1929 by local enthusiasts using the saloon bar of the former Shipwrights pub near to the East Quay. The atmosphere of the club reflects these beginnings and we are a relaxed, friendly club who enjoy great sailing on some very interesting and beautiful water, and have a lively social calendar to support this.

The clubhouse was built in 1965 on land bought for £500: previously a railway siding. Over the years the club has acquired land at the East End for waterside boat parking, plus nearby car parking and further boat parking. In 2008 the clubhouse was extended providing improved changing facilities, whilst keeping the unique atmosphere of the original bar and seating area.

The 12 Square Metre Sharpie has traditionally been the strongest fleet. Built mainly in the 1930s these elegant craft became popular in Wells in the 1940s and early 50s. Wells has provided many European and British Champions in this class. We do, however, welcome all classes in the handicap races and particularly Lasers which are quite numerous in the summer months.

Before you decide to join Wells Sailing Club you might like to know a bit about how the club works. The club’s vision is to actively promote sailing and ‘on the water’ pursuits for the community, by making best use of our resources in a safe, sustainable and friendly way. We actively encourage younger members to get involved at all levels. The club consists mostly of people with an active interest in sailing, sail racing, pleasure sailing in dinghies or yachts, canoeing and many other water-based activities. The club relies on self help to keep costs low and maintain an inclusive and friendly atmosphere. To this end we hope that all members contribute time to support the club. This could be running a weekend’s racing as the race officer, joining a committee,  working behind the bar, preparing a bacon sandwich for sailors coming off the water or being involved in organising a social event. If you have a particular skill you would like to volunteer then please let us know. Most work is carried out voluntarily by members of the club but for large and highly skilled jobs the club will employ professionals.