Welcome to Kielder Yacht Club

Kielder Yacht Club is located on the shores of Kielder Water in Northumberland, United Kingdom, and enjoys unrivalled views of the tranquil landscape of Kielder Forest. The Club Marina is based in the Whickhope Inlet, part of the 27 miles of shoreline. The lake provides both tranquil cruising and challenging sailing.


We are a friendly club in North East England, with a diverse membership coming from as far afield as Yorkshire, Lancashire, Scotland and Cumbria. We are always looking to welcome new members to the pleasures of sailing or cruising on Kielder. Our policy is to encourage both cruising and sailing events, as well as organising a full social programme – but club members may also simply like to get away from it all and relax with a peaceful days sailing.

Check out the stunning location of the KYC marina and surrounding area with this short 30 second video which has been compressed to be mobile data friendly (20mb).

Learn something new and enjoy Sailing

1

Learn new skills

Read the wind, the clouds and even the ripples in the water. Sailing can be both peaceful and  relaxing as well as challenging. No sailing trip is ever the same. A sense of accomplishment by becoming the master of your own vessel is truly unique and extraordinarily pleasing.

2

Health Benefits

Sailing can help increase agility and flexibility and may help with the normal tensions of life whatever your age. Spending time with nature and the outdoors can improve your mood and reduce feelings of stress as well as have a positive impact on your self esteem.

3

Life Experiences

See new places from a different perspective, take in the tranquility of the lake, feel the breeze and leave the complications of life behind if only for just a few hours. Spending time with your family and friends on your craft sailing or socialising is true quality of life.  

Our Club

Facilities
Toilets, showers, galley, club room able to accommodate 50+ members, outside seating/eating area. Defibrillator.

Parking & Storage
Ample members parking, gated with key access. Boat & trailer park, tender park, inflatable tender storage.

Kielder Water

Marina 
Concrete launching slip, jetty, deep water swinging moorings, club tenders. 


The Lake
Access to day and overnight moorings. Stunning views and tranquillity.

Kielder Yacht Club is not just about cruising the lake, we operate an extensive sailing calendar with enough activities to keep the whole family involved. We include everything from a gentle sail to a secluded inlet, rafting up with friends enjoying a good bottle of wine, to full blown regatta weekends. Of course, no sailing calendar would be complete without a good BBQ.

Our social calendar operates throughout the year. During the winter season we make the most of our club house facilities by hosting parties, hog roasts and winter walks.

The club is home to both motor cruisers and yachts where members can enjoy a full calendar of social and sailing events or simply get away from it all on Europe’s largest man-made lake.

Kielder Yacht Club is a family friendly sailing club in the heart of Northumberland located on the banks of stunning Kielder Water, the largest man-made reservoir in the UK.  

We are based on the shores of Kielder Water in Northumberland surrounded by the quiet tranquillity of Kielder Forest, one of the few remaining Dark Sky locations in the UK and one that can boast its own public Observatory.

Membership & Mooring Fees 2023

New members are very welcome at our club. We were founded in 1981 and have established our base in the beautiful surroundings of Kielder Water by our team of volunteers and committed members. Whether you wish to develop your sailing skills or simply cruise the tranquil waters of Kielder, the lake offers diversity for all levels of experience and a place where long lasting memories can be made and treasured.

Initial Joining Fee: £75* 
Full Membership: £310 
Associate Membership: £155 
Student Membership: £20
________________

Full Membership - £310.00 Two named adults and all of their children under 18 years of age operating one boat afloat. Any children between 18 and 24 and still in full time education should be added as student members.

Associate Membership - £155.00 Covers individuals or families who do not own a boat, but wish to use the Club's facilities or sail on a boat belonging to another member whilst they are in attendance.

Student Membership - £20.00 Covers those between 18 and 24 years of age whose parents or guardians are members of the Club and who can satisfy the Committee that they are in full time education.

Other Fees may apply depending how you operate at the club, e.g. additional entry keys or storing personal tenders. Please request a full list of additional fees if required.

* A joining fee is payable when you join the club and is non payable in subsequent years for unbroken membership.

Fees are non-negotiable.

The following fees are also payable to Northumbrian Water for the season if you own a boat and wish to sail on Kielder Water:

Registration - Boat only £29.50
Registration - Boat and Tender £43 
Mooring fee – £450

1. Request a Membership Pack, either by using the contact form on the website or by emailing us directly at kielderyachtclub@email.com .
2. A Membership Application form will be emailed to you along with links to the Member's Handbook, Club Constitution, Grievance & Disciplinary and Northumbrian Water Rules. Ensure you read these documents before applying, as there may be restrictions or conditions that could make the club unsuitable for your needs. They can also be reviewed now in the Documentation section on the main website page.
3. Complete the Membership Form and return it to the email address stated on the document.
4. The Membership Secretary will review your application and contact you to make payment.
5. Pay the fees to the account stated on the Invoice provided.
6. The membership secretary will confirm your membership once funds are received and a site key(s) will be posted to your home address. Contact details will be provided for any Northumbrian Water Ltd payable fees if applicable. Once any NWL fees are paid, you will receive a sticker(s) for your craft which must be placed in view and in accordance with NWL instructions.
7. If you intend launching a boat with our assistance, your launch date will be agreed with the launch crew and carried out with you in attendance observing all handbook guidance and safety instructions.

* Please note, as the application process is quite involved with more than one individual, the process will take several working days to complete.

What's the maximum boat size you can accommodate?
In simple terms, our limit is of 9m in length (30ft) and less than 5,000kg (5 tonne) for us to be able to launch the craft and for you to moor in the marina. You must also have a suitable trailer that is satisfactory and safe for your vessel. If you are near these limits and wish to inquire about membership, please contact us for verification as moorings are limited for the largest of craft.

Can I launch and haul out my own boat at my own convenience?
Whilst we do offer a launch and haul out service, which is part of your membership fee for seasonal scheduled dates, yes, in general you may use your own suitable vehicle to launch or haul out (see next question for exceptions). All club, NWL rules and safety procedures must be followed and the club tractor may only be operated by designated individuals.

Do you offer Slip and Retrieve facilities?
No. Slip and Retrieve is a process where a person may launch their boat, sail for the day, then remove the boat from the water. 
Unfortunately, our Club Rules and Leasing Agreement with Northumbrian Water Ltd do not permit Slip and Retrieve. Boats launched must remain on the water for the season. 

Can I use the club for a 'staycation' instead of going abroad for my holidays this year?
We have received a number of requests asking if a 2 or 3 week stay at the club along with use of the lake is possible rather than joining as an annual member. Unfortunately this is not permitted with the agreement we have with Northumbrian Water Ltd. Please direct all casual boating queries to Kielder Waterside. Tel: 01434 251000 

Can you sleep overnight at Kielder Yacht Club?
Yes of course! You may sleep on your yacht or cruiser overnight. You can moor on the jetty or on overnight moorings around the lake. Our leasing arrangements with Northumbrian Water Ltd does not allow sleeping in caravans, tents, campervans or motorhomes overnight at the club premises.

May I bring visitors to the club?
We very much welcome visitors to our club. Of course, they must follow our rules and should be briefed by the invitee before visiting the site. Remember, you will need enough life jackets to accommodate your guests if they are to use the jetties and take to the water. There are some club life jackets available on a first come first served basis that may be also be borrowed for the day. We do request that individual guests may only attend for a maximum of 6 times in a season, we trust you'll understand a form of membership would be required for anyone attending regularly.

Can Associate Members sail at the club?
Yes. Associate Membership is for those who don't own a boat but wish to be a member of the club, use club facilities, and sail with other members on their boats. Boat owners must always be present onboard when associate members are guests on their vessels. 

Can we hire a boat at Kielder Yacht Club?
Unfortunately we are unable to hire boats or provide formal lessons at the club.

What is your role at Kielder Water?
We often get mistaken for the custodians of Kielder Water and regularly get questions about the lake, fishing, staycations, camping etc. Please be aware we are a Yacht Club, we are permitted to use the lake but have no other role in the area. For leisure activities or questions about the area, please contact Leaplish Waterside Park on 01434 251000.  

Can already paid fees be transferred to a new owner?
No. If you were to purchase a boat for sale at KYC, fees are non transferable between members, all fees are payable by the new owner. The new member must pay registration to NWL along with Mooring fees even if they have already been paid by the previous owner. Membership fees and any associated temporary storage are also due following any boat exchanges. This is a year round requirement so if someone indicates fees are already paid during any sale negotiation, this is incorrect.

Click Here to Launch the Fees Estimator...

This tool is provided purely to give you an estimate of annual fees should you be interested in joining Kielder Yacht Club. The calculator explains each membership option and you may use it freely and anonymously.

Please Note: We are a Yacht Club that launches larger boats with sleeping accommodation onto moorings for the entire season. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate day sailors, dinghies, wind surfers, paddle boards or similar.

New members are always very welcome. Please email us directly or complete the following form if you would like someone to contact you about membership, to request a membership joining pack, or if you have any other questions.

Please may we request reading the FAQ's above before contacting us as we commonly get the same questions which are covered in that section.

If you are requesting a membership pack, please give details of your boat make, weight and size so we may check for a suitable mooring.

Early History of Kielder Yacht Club

by Judith Robinson, Michael Money and Bill Holden

Charles McPhail, the second Commodore, and his wife May were walking at Whickhope one day and there below them on the hillside, men were working, putting in the moorings…. before the lake was completely flooded.

The inaugural meeting of the Sailing Cruiser Section of Kielder Water Club was held at the Duke of Wellington, Kenton Lane. Newcastle upon Tyne, on Tuesday, 7th April 1981

The mooring buoys were the pink ones, similar to those around the lake now. Tenders were pulled up on the shore just above the water line. There was a jetty. That was all there was.

The clubhouse, at this time, was still a green hut at Leaplish, shared by all sections of Kielder Water Club, who were the Sailing Club, based in the bay at Leaplish, the Yacht and Motor Cruiser Clubs, who sailed out of Whickhope, and the Ski Club. Their area was the large bay east of the Leaplish headland. It was 1981.

The shed, a cricket pavilion from Annfield Plain, costing £300, brought over and put up by members, had not yet come to Whickhope. This was finally put up and declared fit for use by a Works Officer in October 1983. 

‘Resolution’ (lain Mungall) and ‘Fable’ (Charles and May McPhail) were the largest yachts, most members sailing in 15 to 22 feet size, not in the comfort experienced today. Racing was popular, members were keen, but all the races were friendly. There must have been some bad weather, but those days seemed to be sunshine and racing winds.

Membership had increased to 63 by 1987. The Motor Cruising section was still separate. After many years, in 1985, because both sections sailed at Whickhope, it was suggested it made sense to amalgamate the Motor Cruiser Club with the Yacht Club. This finally happened on January lst 1993 under the Yacht Club name.

Two mooring buoys, bow and stern, and laid north / south against the prevailing winds caused much discomfort for the boats and eventually, in 1983, they were re-laid east to west. Much later, in 1989, these were changed to the swinging moorings we have today. It cost £150 per mooring plus diver costs of £300 a day to install the swing moorings. This was paid for by the £6,000 per year paid through Kielder Water Club to Northumbrian Water for maintaining the moorings.

The clubhouse at Leaplish, the green hut, was formerly the construction site laboratory which was re-erected about where the Leaplish conference centre and swimming pool is now. Everyone had to take a turn at galley duty, which became more controversial and a nuisance as some good sailing weather was missed. In the beginning, the building was also shared by the Reivers of Tarset who ran a boat hire/sailing school from it before they got their own building at the head of the west slipway. Their building is now the Bunkbarn.

Caroline Waitt was the first “Water Sports Officer” and she dealt with registration, not only for club members but also for the large number of day visitors who brought their own boats to Kielder in the early years. Caroline served for the I982-84 seasons and she was strict. Yachts and owners had to conform to Northumbrian Water Rules, for example, flares on board were checked and all boats had to pass an engine noise test before Caroline allowed them to stay on the water.


Alan Hetherington came after Caroline for the next two seasons. He lived on site in a caravan when on duty and did much to reduce the theft and vandalism prevalent at Leaplish at that time. One of his reports included the following incident which occurred on 30th July 1987:

“Six youths aged 16 – 18 tried to use the Reivers rescue boat, but had no petrol. They then broke into the petrol store, filled milk bottles for petrol bombs and threw them behind Reivers’ building. Later an attempt was made to start a dumper truck The next morning the police collected them from their tents and they were charged.”

Boats on moorings at Whickhope did not escape, on one night 20 were broken into. Following this many members avoided using strong padlocks on the cabin door, better to have a broken padlock than a smashed door.

After many negotiations, Northumbrian Water (before privatisation), built a magnificent new clubhouse, at an estimated cost of £300,000, which is now the Boat Inn at Leaplish (This is much changed from the original building). Grants were applied for from the English Tourist Board, who wanted the toilets to be made public. The clubhouse was opened by David Scott Cowper on Monday, 6th June 1988.

David Scott Cowper, who practised as a Newcastle Solicitor, is renowned for sailing round the world and is / was frequently away sailing (or trapped in ice) in northern waters. Sadly, the plaque which commemorated the event of the opening and the organisations who had funded the clubhouse, has disappeared.

Les and Pat Ferguson were appointed as wardens for the 1988-89 season and they lived in the upstairs flat in the clubhouse. Pat ran the galley. Evenings and socials were held in the clubhouse as the clubs continue to do in their own premises, but again, it was for all three sections.

Les and Pat left to become stewards at the Royal Northumberland Yacht Club at Blyth. Gordon and May Greensill came shortly after Pat and Les. May followed on from Pat with more excellent cooking for hungry sailors. They stayed until 1991. Rumours had begun that Northumbrian Water wanted the building for themselves…. or to share it.

Launching and retrieving was at Leaplish. Easy enough to launch with cars, but Yacht Club members then had to sail or motor to Whickhope to their moorings. Ferrying cars between the two places caused some headaches, one family member / friend, had to be available to collect the car and return it to where it was needed. Sometimes this involved walking from Leaplish to Whickhope or vice versa. Many people were certainly very fit in those days!

At the end of the season, most yachts were stored over the winter at Leaplish, in the car park, which was not as large as it is now. Some boats went to the scouts at Hawkhirst and some were taken home. It was a full day. Again, members had to sail / motor to Leaplish and then help each other to haul out using cars.

Later on, for well over ten years, John Richardson was helping at launch / haul out with his tractor. Umpteen members in the club have John to thank for sorting out their trailer / boat problems as he, frequently, was waist high, or above, in the water. Nothing was too much trouble for John and members owe a huge debt of gratitude to him before their own ‘ tractor crew’ came on the scene when John decided he could no longer continue with this demanding work.

More negotiations and finally, in 1991. Northumbrian Water approved the plan for each section to have their own clubhouse and their own area. The Sailing Club chose Tower Knowe and the Yacht Club stayed at Whickhope, as the Ski Club did in their own bay. The other two sections’ clubhouses were made of whole log construction. The Yacht Club’s was half log.

Originally, it was intended that the cabin Northumbrian Water had used at the Gateshead Garden Festival would become the clubhouse, but that never materialised and what is there now was built. Not in the original agreed position however. The main windows should have been facing down the inlet. Members began using the clubhouse from April 1993.

The official opening of the new clubhouse was on the Sunday of the August Regatta 1993, by Sir Michael Straker, who was given Honorarv Membership of the club and he remained interested in us until his early death a few years later.

There was a marquee in the car park and invitations went to the other sections, and many visitors were invited to the splendid buffet lunch. Celebrations went on well into night time. The midges joined the company then as they do now.

Once the sections split up, and became totally centred in their own areas, each club began to grow and get more and more facilities. The marina built at Leaplish in 1988, which Kielder Water Club had offered £2000 towards, was towed to Whickhope and moored where it is now by October 1993. When the marina was first put in at Leaplish it was deemed to be a great success provided the wind blew from the south or west only. 

The shed (or store) at East Wickhope was kept for a few more years. It was finally demolished sometime in 1999. It had served the club well, progressing from nothing to porta-loos and parties. Trailers stayed where they had always been stored. The jetty at Whickhope remained, since refurbished by members.

Each year since has seen more progress to comfort. Larger yachts and motor cruisers appeared, sadly, the enthusiasm for racing lapsed and members began to stay overnight on their boats. Social evenings continued, from meals served by Doreen and Sadie from Bellingham, to the ‘special’ evenings now and the Pie and Pea suppers. The ferry was also booked for the club some years for an evening tour of the lake with supper on board and sometimes with themed fancy dress such as ‘pirates’, and ‘millionaires’.

The Yacht Club membership is good and constant, always determined by the number of moorings available. Several Sailing Club members moved from dinghies to yachts, some so they could sail together with their families, others just wanted something larger with a little comfort. The Yacht Club and Sailing Club continue to share sailing events with each other, such as the Yacht Club Regattas, and yachts are always welcome in the Round the Lake races. Contact with the Ski Club is less easy because of having to avoid sailing into their bay, but friendships made when members were one club at Leaplish have continued and are as strong today as they were then.

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 and as we are today

Member's Area

At KYC, we choose transparency.

Here at Kielder Yacht Club, we do not hide behind logins and passwords, we welcome anyone looking for information to see our fees, news, events and documentation. Please feel free to look through our Members Area and see what we're up to.

2023 Haul-Out

Probably the best trailer reminder in the world!

We're edging ever closer to our haul-out days so don't forget to plan some time in to pay particular attention to your trailer for haul-out. Make sure it is safe and suitable for towing well before your haul-out. Check tires, hitch, jockey wheels and brakes are not locked on and make sure the name of your boat is clearly marked on the trailer. It's a good time to grease everything up and make sure all the usual maintenance is carried out. These checks can help avoid big problems on the day for you and the crews.
* Boats will not be hauled-out on unsuitable/unsafe trailers.

Not booked your haul-out yet?
Please book as soon as you are able to, helping our crews organise and plan each day.
Trailers must be fit for purpose and clearly marked with the boat name.

ALL CREW AND SELF HAUL-OUTS ARE TO USE THE BOOKING SYSTEM
THIS ENSURES ALL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS ARE READ AND UNDERSTOOD

Haul-outs booked so far...

67%

New to KYC launch or haul-outs?

For newer members that have not experienced an assisted launch or haul-out, check out some hints, tips and pointers.


NEWS IN BRIEF

Last Updated: 01-Oct-2023

1

Message: 2023 Haul Out Booking System Open
A link to the booking system has been sent out so now's the time to book. The sooner you can commit to a date the better as this gives our haul out crews a schedule to work on and enables them to plan each day for trailer movements and storage allocation. Remember it is vital your trailer is in tip top condition and ensure your boat name is clearly marked on your trailer. Spaces are allocated on a first come first served basis as there are limited slots for each day, but this also means if you need to change your booking, please do notify us ASAP as this will free up a space for another member that may wish a slot on that particular day.

2

Request: Help today and tomorrow
KYC is always looking for volunteers to carry out those maintenance tasks in and around the club. We do need to know of any safety concerns ASAP but not everything needs to be reported. If there's something you've seen around the site that can be tidied or repaired should you feel comfortable and able without putting yourself or anyone else at risk, then we'd appreciate the assistance and please feel free to sort the issue. If you would like to volunteer your time, drop us a line and let us know what you are good at so we may see if there's anything you can help us with. Thank you.

3

Warning: Watch your step
Just a reminder to watch your step on the jetty during these very damp conditions. Keep to the wired walkways where possible and hold on to the handrail walking from the Trip Slip area to the gated jetty entrance.

4

Message: Be prepared, be ready.
Accidents come without warning. When was the last time you checked your first aid kit onboard? Have you even got one? Are you prepared for a nasty cut, burn or insect bite? Even treating small cuts quickly may reduce the chances of infection. Compact first aid kits can help in some situations and are readily available in shops, chemists and online. Remember, items do expire and you may need to replenish your kit. Take a look at some information provided by the NHS to see what items you may want to stock? Click here...

5

Request: Tie 'em Up!
Please may we politely remind members to tie up their ropes on boats whether launched or in the yards. The 'ching chinging' all day and night even in calm conditions can be very disturbing especially for those staying overnight. Thank you.

6

Reminder: Fees Transfers
Just a reminder that fees are not transferable between members. If you are selling your boat or tender, all fees are payable by the new owner. The new member must pay registration to NWL along with Mooring fees even if they have already been paid by the current owner. Membership fees and any associated temporary storage are also due following any boat exchanges by everyone. This is a year round requirement. 


Latest Club Correspondence

Didn't receive the email? Let us know.


21-Sep: KYC- Haul Out 2023 booking
21-Sep: Timed event... [Now Sat 23rd]
21-Sep: Timed event race Sunday 24th...
16-Sep: AGM ... Nominations
11-Sep: KYC - 'Out with a Bang' Social Event...
05-Sep: KYC - September Comms...
14-Aug: KYC - Club Regatta.... Reminder

NOTICEBOARD

1

Get yourself a Boat Buddy!

"What’s a Boat Buddy? "
Think of a Boat Buddy as someone who can check out your boat when you are not there, just like a neighbour might with your house when you are not at home. Whilst there is an ethos of all members watching out for each other’s boats whether on the moorings or out of the water, why not get together with someone you particularly get on well with or a member who is moored next to you? When either of you next go out to your vessel, just have a quick check over to see if everything’s okay. There’s no need to mount the craft, just a quick look around on the tender to see if the mooring ropes and chain is good, sail covers are still in place, etc. etc.
Don't forget to exchange contact details and there's nothing to stop you getting 3 or 4 Buddy's in your group or being in multiple groups. 
So get yourself a Boat Buddy, it can’t be a bad thing, can it?

2

Email woes

We have noted from more than one member that they have not received certain emails from the club in the past.
Firstly, it's a good idea to review the 'Latest Club Correspondence' section above regularly. Emails to the membership are listed here so you may check you have received them. If you have not received an email, please contact us.
What may have happened?
Have you changed your email address and not notified the club or membership  secretary?
Are the emails in your 'spam' folder?
Is KYC on your 'whitelist'?
What on earth are we talking about!!!?
A document has been created with some useful information surrounding these issues that will hopefully help. Open the Document... 

3

Trailer Identification

Members must ensure their trailers are clearly marked with their boat name on it. It is imperative for tractor crews and committee members to identify trailers throughout the season in case they need to get in touch with you. Its just a quick job, you can simply paint, permanent marker, label or tag your trailer. Please ensure you do this on your next visit to the club and if you have already done so, make sure it is still legible.

4

Defibrillator Training

Whilst defibrillators are simple to operate and can be used by anyone with no prior training, learning how use a defibrillator will make sure you are familiar with the device. Defibrillator training, including basic life support, will give you the confidence to act quickly and effectively if someone has a cardiac arrest. Following the in-house training by a Paramedic from North East Ambulance Service, here you'll find a short animated instructional video on how to use our own club defibrillator.


If you were unable to attend, we aim to provide further sessions in the future.  

Here, we retain a selection of the more important posts that you may have missed since the last time you visited us. These will be withdrawn when they are no longer pertinent, so visit the noticeboard regularly to catch noteworthy news, information or announcements that may affect you.

'Data Protection' and our club
Popups, GDPR, Data Protection... it can be very frustrating at times.
Protecting you as a member is of course extremely important and takes form in a variety of ways, but one area of confusion can often be protecting your personal information like email address, phone number and even your name! Data security is one of the areas the club is responsible for. We regularly get very innocent requests for member's contact information and this is something we can not simply give out, it requires a little patience from your side. Should you require another members details, our process is to ask that member if they are willing to divulge their information to you. Therefore, please understand we are not being awkward, the Data Protection Act is law and it may take a little time to get you the details you require. 

Membership Records Update
The Hon. Membership Secretary is requesting by email any changes to your club membership records. It's important we keep our records up-to-date for any club communications.

Overnight Moorings
We are delighted that Northumbrian Water have invested a lot of time and expense replacing the overnight moorings that will greatly benefit our membership and give us confidence when mooring . Thank you, we really appreciate it.
View the locations map...

Remember... "Trip out? Trip in."
There have been some memorable slogans conceived by advertisers and government campaigns over the years. Of course, you know their purpose is to get us to remember goods and services or to get over an important message, so why not have one of our own?
“Trip out? Trip in.” - So if you have a Trip out for a sail or a cruise, remember to always complete and deploy your Trip Slip in the rack, even for the shortest of journeys.
Okay, it's not as catchy as 'Clunk Click Every Trip' but hopefully it can serve as a reminder to post your Trip Slip for every voyage. Just as important, remember to remove your Trip Slip on your return so everyone knows you have arrived back safely.

Important Information Regarding Fraudulent Emails.
Recently, it has been reported that some members are getting emails from last seasons commodore requesting financial help. These emails are fraudulent and are not from anyone connected to the club. The more observant will note that the email address they are sent from is similar to our previous commodore's, but not exactly the same. Regardless of this, it is very important you do not reply or click on any links or attachments, simply delete the email. On a side note, it is always advisable to keep your device software along with virus and malware applications fully up to date.

A huge thank you to our Regatta Weekend Sponsors

Checkout their websites for more information

Black Bull Hotel

Bellingham, Hexham
NE48 2JP

The Black Bull Hotel is the perfect spot for your traditional pub experience. Enjoy some delicious beers on tap and exquisite wines.
Website

The Cheviot

Bellingham, Hexham
NE48 2AU

Spend time relaxing & de-stressing amid the glorious, slow pace of the countryside or take advantage of the activities and adventure they offer.
Website

Falstone Tearooms

Falstone, Hexham
NE48 1AE

Delicious Home-made Food. Tearoom, craft gallery, community grocery shop and Northumberland National Park information point.
Website

First & Last Brewery

Bellingham, Hexham
NE48 2DA

Award winning, family-run, microbrewery established in 2016 brewing finely crafted beers in the heart of Northumberland.
Website

2023 Calendar

Next Racing Event:

7th & 8th Oct - Races 9 & 10

Next Social Event:

9th Dec - Christmas Walk, Bring & Eat

April

1st - 2nd Launch Weekend
5th - 6th Midweek Launch
28th Late Launch Day
29th - 30th Working Weekend (29th Bring & Eat with Quiz)

May

6th King’s Coronation Celebrations
(Kielder Water joint club event)
7th KYC Racing Series - Race 1
8th KYC Racing Series - Race 2
21st Belling Belle Trophy race

June

3rd Italian Themed Food Night plus quiz
10th KYC Racing Series - Race 3
11th KYC Racing Series - Race 4

July

1st Commodore’s Picnic, including Hook-a-Duck race
2nd Commodore’s Chase
8th KYC Racing Series - Race 5
9th KYC Racing Series - Race 6
29th Flotilla (Kielder Water joint clubs event)

August

12th KYC Racing Series - Race 7
13th KYC Racing Series - Race 8

Regatta Weekend

18th Cheese & Wine evening
19th Best Dressed Boat competition, Golden Envelope Sailing Event, including Motor Cruisers, BBQ and entertainment/games
20th Club Fun Auction

28th Timed Racing event

September

9th - 10th Quiz on the lake, plus overnight raft up
23rd Bangers & Mash

October

7th KYC Racing Series - Race 9 (inc Bring & Eat BBQ)
8th KYC Racing Series - Race 10
18th-19th Midweek Haul Out
21st-22nd  Haul Out Weekend
28th-29th  Final Haul Out 

November

11th Annual General Meeting 

December

9th Christmas Walk and Quiz with Mulled Wine, Bring & Eat

This year’s sailing will be mainly Weekend races which includes both Saturday 1pm start
and Sunday 11am start. Start times may change slightly depending on wind speed etc and will be decided at the race briefings. Briefings will be on the jetty or over the VHF and an email with details will be sent prior to racing.

Sat 6th May -The Kings Coronation Day (Bank Holiday) – Kielder Flotilla
Sun 7th & Mon 8th May - Race 1 & 2 (Bank Holiday) First race of the year. NHC will be recorded onto Sailwave racing series data and added up at the end of the year. Prizes will be given at the AGM.
Sun 21st May - Belling Belle Trophy Race – Yearly race to win the Belling Belle Trophy.
Sat 10th & Sun 11th June - Race 3 & 4- Scoring will be entered onto the racing series data.
Sat 1st July – Hook a Duck Race and Commodores Picnic – Test your skills at hooking a duck from different spots around the lake.
Sun 2nd July – Commodores Chase Race
Sat 8th & Sun 9th July - Race 5 & 6- Scoring will be entered onto the racing series data.
Sat 12 & Sun 13th August – Race 7 & 8 - Scoring will be entered onto the racing series data.
28th August - Timed Event - Times will be concealed in an envelope. Boats set off at the same time to a  chosen buoy. You go around the buoy between those times and a time will be picked out of the envelope. The boat that was closest to that time wins. All times go towards the racing series.
Sat 9th & Sun 10th Sept – Quiz on the Lake inc overnight raft up
Sat 7th & Sun 8th Oct - Race 9 & 10 – Race Finale Weekend- Bring and Eat BBQ. Clubhouse 7pm.

Scoring will be entered onto the racing series data.

Trophies awarded at AGM will include:
Best Newcomer
Belling Belle Trophy
Commodore Chase Trophy
KYC Sailing Overall Winner
Prizes for Best dressed boat on The Kings Coronation Day, Hook a Duck, and Quiz on the lake.

All race results are guideline by NHC Handicap, and we will record all results and update members though
out the year.

All participants must have a working VHF radio and set to the usual KYC Channel.
In case of emergency, use ‘Code Red’ rather than Mayday, as this Channel can be picked up from the coast.

Loyalty Gift – Each member who takes part in 4 or more events will be given 2023’s
Loyalty Gift at the AGM.

Live Weather

Wind Charts


     

Members Boats 'n' Gear for Sale

Please note, all  listings are private sales and the club is not responsible for any details provided.
All contracts whether verbal or written are solely between the seller and purchaser.

Charis

Charis - Hunter Horizon 232

Price: £ SOLD
Bilge keel, 4 berth Hunter Horizon 232 and road trailer for sale. Many extras along with a Suzuki DF9.9hp electric start outboard and remotes. Further info...
Mercury Outboard

Outboard - Mercury 8HP

Price: £299  (Reduced)
A 8HP 2-Stroke Mercury Outboard for sale. Long Shaft with remotes. Spares or repair, see the full advert for details. Further info...
Lainy D

Lainy D - Leisure 23SL

Price: £ SOLD
Leisure 23SL bilge keel. Yamaha outboard included in the sale along with extras.  
5-berth cabin, hob & grillFurther info...
Hecate

Hecate - Hunter Ranger 265

Price: £16,250
Sailed on fresh water only. 6 berth, twin cabin and separate heads. My Hunter Ranger is very well equipped and comes with a trailer.  Further info...
Juniper

Juniper - Jeanneau Tonic 23

Price: £11,000
Spacious 4 berth yacht including Yamaha 9.9hp 4 stroke electric start outboard and roadworthy trailer along with many extras.  Further info...
Inflatable

Inflatable - Rydal 230 Pro Airdeck

Price: £275
High quality, as new, inflatable boasting a UV, petrol and oil resistant tougher thicker hull, but compact enough to store in it's own carry bag. Ideal tender.  Further info...

Branded Club Clothing

Check out the range of KYC branded clothing and choose from beanie hats & caps, t-shirts, polo shirts, sweat shirts, hoodies and jackets all with our logo for you to proudly show off.

Please note, all purchases are private sales between the supplier and yourself.
Kielder Yacht Club is not responsible for any problems with your order or merchandise.

Beginners Basics

Written by beginners for beginners

Calling for assistance:
Channel 16 (known as the calling channel) is used for emergencies only. Always ensure your radio is working before you take to the water, or for handhelds, the batteries are good and you have spares. Where possible, make sure as many crew and passengers know how to at least use the basic radio controls. Gain familiarity with Kielder Water and practice learning the locations and landmarks of the lake. You can find maps in the club house and you may find the Overnight Moorings Map useful for generalised locations. Invest in a paper map for your vessel, technology is not that friendly without power. You can also purchase Mayday cards that could be placed in your cockpit for reminders on how to call for help, or even make your own... why not? ALWAYS leave a Trip Slip at the jetty entrance informing others of your intended journey and return times. For advice on calling for help, take a look at this RYA link.

Talk Talk:
It's amazing how commonly our newer or less experienced sailors and cruisers praise the wisdom and guidance of our more experienced members. Whilst books and manuals are a good way to learn, there's nothing like asking someone in person and we certainly excel as a club in helping each other with those simple or tricky questions. We have such a diverse skill set and knowledge of sailing and boating, so please don't be afraid to ask someone if you need help or advice.

Fill 'er up:
Getting into the habit of having enough fuel for your intended trip may be an obvious one, and if you can't sail for whatever reason, make sure you can get back to base on your engine alone. Sure, but what about using a tender? Make sure the tender fuel tank/container is adequately full for any journeys to and from your mooring. It's not the first time a member has ran out of fuel and had to row to shore! If the club tender fuel container is getting low, follow etiquette and replenish the fuel from the bosun's supply.

Look cool:
There are a couple of handy basic pieces of cheap gear that not everyone takes on board... a cap and sunglasses. It's not uncommon to get terrific glare from the water, restricting your view, especially when coming in to our Whickhope jetty in the evening, when the sun is often in your line of sight.

Watch where you're going:
Binoculars are useful in a number of situations of course, but they can be handy to take a good look at the jetty when cruising back to base. Check for available spaces before you get too close to the landing and end up having to make an awkward last minute manoeuvre. Knowing where you are docking can also give you time to place fenders and ropes on the correct side of the boat before you get there. Don't forget to check the wind direction before you commit too.

Get plastered before you sail:
Well, when we say plastered, we mean of the first aid variety of course. Next time you rummage around your cockpit make sure you know where your first aid kit is and let any crew or passengers know, making sure it is fully supplied with unexpired stock.

No Soggy Bottoms please:
Extra clothes for changing conditions and temperature drops may be obvious, but what if you get very wet? Always have a full change of clothes in your car as well as perhaps your boat. Your bottom and car seat will thank you on your journey home.

Be a meerkat:
Always maintain concentration to avoid colliding with other boats. Other vessels, obstacles or even the shore can creep up on you in a jiffy, so don't assume that as you can't see anything now, that you can relax and take your eye off the surrounding area for a while.

Pain is not gain:
Some of us are not as young as we used to be…. you know who you are!
A gentle stretch and limber up before heading out on the water isn’t such a silly idea whatever your age and fitness. A pulled muscle starting an outboard, hoisting up the mainsail or bending down to grab a pickup buoy could potentially cause more problems than it first seems, especially if you are sailing alone. Firstly, know and consider your limitations, but examples depending on your flexibility and capability may include marching in place while swinging your arms, slow and smooth shoulder shrugs or rising on your toes. Probably, doing a warm up on shore would be advisable, as you may be swimming too should you try these onboard!

Got any tips to share?
kielderyachtclub@email.com

I'm currently looking at quotes for my yacht insurance. What on earth is maximum hull design speed in knots?
Maximum hull speed is a calculation to predict the maximum speed of a yacht based solely on its waterline length. Maximum is not really a correct term here as this speed can be exceeded, but for the purposes of your insurance the formula to calculate your answer is:

Maximum Hull Speed in Knots = 1.34 x Square root of the waterline length in feet.

Fortunately, insurance companies tend to offer a range of selectable options when answering this question, for example, 20 knots or less, or more than 20 knots, so it's unlikely your calculation needs to be very accurate.

Buying a lifejacket is a minefield. Any advice?
Lifejacket styles and features are wide and varied these days and it's a common topic of discussion when trying to select one suitable for your needs. This will not be a 'purchase and forget' item, maintenance and servicing should be considered, so it's not just a case of picking a nice colour that matches your deck shoes.
Here's some great advice about lifejackets on the RNLI site. Go there...


Got any questions for this section?
kielderyachtclub@email.com

Windward – Term which denotes the direction from which the wind is blowing.

Leeward – Direction opposite to the current wind; sometimes called ‘lee’ as well.

Tacking – A basic manoeuvre of turning the bow into the wind, which changes the direction from which the wind blows from one side of the boat to the other. This will also shift the boom of the boat from one side to the other in a more controlled fashion.

Gybing – The opposite of tacking, but not as common as it involves turning the boat directly into the wind. The manoeuvre consists of turning the boat’s stern through the wind, which changes the direction of the wind from one side of the boat to the other.
WARNING! Gybing without preparation can be dangerous. Unlike tacking, gybes require very careful control of the mainsheet as the boom, mainsail and the slack mainsheet can slam across the boat very quickly. Anyone near the boom or mainsheet runs the risk of being hit and seriously injured or worse. This is why you should always take special care with good communication to the crew and passengers when gybing.

Documentation

Note: For your protection, the links below will open a PDF file. If you are requested to download or open anything other than a PDF, you are advised not to proceed and kindly notify us.

2023 Handbook

Membership guidance on how the club functions, what services are provided and what is expected of members.
View...

Disciplinary and Grievance

Documentation describing standards of conduct and promoting fair treatment for all.
View...

Club Constitution

Documentation outlining the purpose of the club and the duties of the club's officers along with membership definitions, club management and meeting details.
View...

Kielder Water Rules

Northumbrian Water Ltd rules and regulations governing the use of Kielder Water.
(Last Updated by NWL 2021)
View...

External Links

The following links are provided as a convenience. They do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by Kielder Yacht Club of any services or opinions of the corporation or organisation. Kielder Yacht Club bears no responsibility for the accuracy, legality or content of the external site or for that of subsequent links. These links will open in a new window.

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KYC
Address

Kielder Yacht Club
Whickhope Anchorage, Hexham Northumberland. NE48 1AX


Defibrillator
Located in the Clubhouse Entrance Hall. Response kit included in the carry case.

Club Location: Visitors 

The Whickhope turn off is easy to miss, check out these additional location markers to help with your visit.

Travelling from the East
See road...

Travelling from the West
See road... 

 

Lat Long
55°09'56.2"N 2°30'14.4"W
55.165622, -2.503986


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