Find the question below that you wish to ask and click the question to get the answer. If you can't find the question in the FAQ's you can contact us using the contact form.
- Q: Do I need to have any sailing experience?
This event is open to people of all sailing abilities, even if you have never been on a boat before you will know how to sail by the end of the weekend! A Royal Yachting Association qualified skipper will be onboard with you all weekend so you will be in capable hands. You can even earn your Royal Yachting Association Start Sailing Certificate by completing this challenge.
- Q: How fit do I need to be?
There is no fitness requirement for this challenge. Some upper body strength and agility are an advantage but there is a job onboard for everybody whatever your strengths. All you really need is a sense of adventure and a good sense of humor!
We do ask that you let us know if you have any current medical conditions so that your skippers are properly briefed in the case of an emergency.
- Q: How long does it take to sail around the Isle of Wight?
Depending on weather and tidal conditions it will take between 8-10 hours to sail around the Isle of Wight. This is a full day’s racing starting before dawn, you will be exhausted at the end of it but the feeling of achievement is fantastic!
- Q: Where will I be sleeping?
You will be sleeping onboard your yacht in double cabins. If you are coming as an individual we will make sure you get the chance to email your fellow participants to get to know them before the event.
- Q: Do I need any specialised equipment?
A pair of sailing gloves is advised, handling ropes all weekend is very tough on your hands. You can buy them at online chandlers for about £15. You will also need a warm sleeping bag and a good set of waterproofs. Waterproofs can be hired from us at £15 for the weekend.
- Q: Are all the boats the same?
All of the boats used in this challenge are between 38 and 40-foot long, we use a handicap system to ensure that the race is fair and that everyone has the same opportunity to win. So even if you cross the line first you might not be the winners! Don’t worry it’s all fair and above board and adds to the suspense when the prizes are award at the celebration meal!
- Q: Do I need to be in a team?
Each yacht accommodates up to 6 people plus a skipper. You can take part as an individual or as a team of any size. If your team is less that 6 you will be teamed up with other participants so you will have a full boat.
- Q: What's included?
Three nights aboard 38-40 foot yachts equipped with toilet and kitchen facilities
Breakfast, lunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday.
Breakfast on Monday
Celebration meal
Free parking for the weekend at Haslar Marina, Gosport
- Q: Is this event for me?
ABSOLUTELY!! This challenge is suitable for anyone over the age of 18 years. You can use this event as a team building experience, a way to make new friends or a personal challenge. One thing everyone taking part has in common is the sense for adventure and the desire to help children be born healthy and grown up healthy.
- Q: How do I raise £750?
While this can be daunting you’ll be surprised how easy it is once you get started! Once you register you will receive a fundraising pack packed full of tips on how to get started, from setting up your online sponsorship form to holding fundraising events.
You will also receive regular newsletters with updates about the charity and more ideas to help with your fundraising. If you need any advice or want to run any ideas past us, the Fundraising Event’s Team are always at the end of the phone so give us a call.
After asking friends and colleagues for sponsorship here are our top 3 ideas to kick start your fundraising:
Hold an X-factor competition – Let your inner diva out and hold a karaoke competition!
Come dine with me – Challenge your friends to a dinner party contest!
High tea – It's always the right time for a cream tea, so why not deliver it right to the desks of your local companies.