Open Day for People with Disabilities (18 July 2026)
This year's event took place in glorious weather on Saturday 18 July with nearly 140 guests joining the event for trips out on the water, a BBQ lunch and tea and cakes.
The RVYC has been welcoming guests to its Open Day for People with Disabilities since 1981, which was the first International Year of Disabled Persons.
This year 44 boat trips were enjoyed along Wootton Creek and out into the Solent.
Some ventured out on fast motor boats while wheel-chair users were aboard specially adapted boats, Wet Wheels and Spirit of Scott Bader. Cowes Sailability's Drascombe La Lunga, and Mad Hatter were also in great demand. The club's launch, Victoria, offered more relaxed journeys throughout the day, members' motor launches, Jumper, Vamos, Willis and Vikla IV gave guests some on-the-water thrills in perfect conditions.
Invited guests included Sight for Wight, Mountbatten Hospice, Hazelwood House, Parkinsons, Southern Housing plus individual guests and their families and carers.
Lord Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon; the High Sheriff, Nigel Hartley; Fishbourne ward councillor Ian Dore ,Fishbourne Parish Councillor Cheryl Fontana and Gavin Marshall from Wightlink attended and spent time talking with guests, carers and RVYC volunteers.
Over 70 RVYC members volunteered to support the event, giving our guests a wonderful day. "This event simply couldn't happen without the wonderful support of RVYC members, who give their time (and boats) so generously", said event coordinator, Steve Sheridan.
A BBQ lunch and refreshments were generously provided by Medina Foods while Grace's Bakery and club members provided homemade cakes. Music throughout the day was provided by Brian Thomas and Amanda, The Watch and the Wight Ukers. Thanks to Steve Love for organising all the musicians who entertained at no charge.
We must thank our event supporters, Fishbourne Parish Council, the Daisy Rich Trust, Medina Foods, Grace's Bakery and Wightlink, for their support which is a vital part of the event.
Save the date Next year's event will be held on Saturday 17 July 2027.
One of our members produced a video of the event a couple of years ago which you can play from the downloads section below.
This year's open day is on Saturday 18th July. For more details contact openday@rvyc.org.uk
Downloads
Last updated 17:58 on 31 July 2026
