About the RYA
Creating a connected, inspired, and inclusive sailing and boating community
Who we are
Set up in 1875 as the Yacht Racing Association, the RYA has become the National Governing Body for a broad range of sailing and boating activities.
We are a membership organisation with over 100,000 members, and a world-leading provider of training schemes and publications. In 2025 we celebrate our 150th anniversary and are immensely proud of our lasting heritage. However, we must continue working to ensure that we, the sport, and pastimes we love, remain relevant, thriving, and accessible to everyone.
How we work
The RYA exists to get more people into boating and watersport activities, promote safe boating practices, and to raise the standards of yachting and sailing in the UK. We do this by working with our volunteers and network of more than 2,400 RYA recognised training centres across 58 countries, alongside over 1,500 RYA affiliated clubs.
Join our community
Our goals
We’ve set out a long-term goal of a connected, inspired, and inclusive sailing and boating community. The next five years will be about building the foundations as we address the perception and challenges of making sailing and boating accessible to everyone. Everything we do will be aligned against one or more of our desired outcomes.
Inclusion
An environment where everyone feels welcome, safe, and valued
Engagement
Get people to continue being involved in sailing and boating for longer
Connect
Collaborate and align efforts with meaningful partners to create greater impact
Inspiration
More people are inspired to explore and learn through being on the water
Influence
Be a leading voice for sailing and related matters nationally and internationally
Sustainability
Reduce our impact on climate and biodiversity, inspiring positive action
Making a difference
Creating an equal, diverse, and inclusive RYA
At the RYA, we want all our members, volunteers, employees, and stakeholders to feel safe and supported to be themselves.
