Tall Ships role for Belfast Lough Sailability

Belfast Lough Sailability is one of five organisations to have been selected as an official charity for this year’s Tall Ships festival.
Belfast Lough Sailability representatives  Geraldine Duggan, Steve Frecknall and Christine Harper at the Tall Ships launch at Belfast Harbour Commissioners.  INCT 16-730-CONBelfast Lough Sailability representatives  Geraldine Duggan, Steve Frecknall and Christine Harper at the Tall Ships launch at Belfast Harbour Commissioners.  INCT 16-730-CON
Belfast Lough Sailability representatives Geraldine Duggan, Steve Frecknall and Christine Harper at the Tall Ships launch at Belfast Harbour Commissioners. INCT 16-730-CON

The event, running from July 2 - 5, will see over 50 vessels from across the globe anchor in Belfast for the start of the Tall Ships races.

It is the third time that Belfast has hosted the races, with Sailability having showcased its own fleet in 2009.

The local charity will have two bases at the event, including a marquee at the marina behind the Odyssey and another beside Clarendon Dock on the other side of the river.  

Sailability will also be demonstrating their popular Hansa dinghies and two-seater kayaks in Clarendon Dock, enabling members of the public to see how safe, versatile and enjoyable these activities are for people with disability.

A spokesperson for the charity said: “We would encourage everyone to visit us at the Tall Ships event and learn how to get afloat with Belfast Lough Sailability either as a participant or volunteer.”

With the summer sailing season approaching, Sailability is looking forward to welcoming newcomers to their open sessions, which offer sailing, boating and kayaking to people with disabilities.

“Every Wednesday evening at 7pm, April to September, you will find us in the cabin at the gates of Carrickfergus Sailing Club,” the spokesperson added. “BLS offers the opportunity for volunteers of all abilities to get involved. There are both shore-based and on-the-water roles for potential volunteers and a chance to gain the necessary qualifications through our recognised training centre. Come along and give it a go.”

Related topics: