Stokes Bay Sailing Club is more than just a sailing club – it’s a vibrant community where generations come together to enjoy the water and each other’s company.
Commodore Carl Downing has spent 40 years as a pilot, flying both for the Navy and commercially, and when he’s not in the air, he’s at the helm of Stokes Bay Sailing Club. The club welcomes everyone, whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a beginner, or someone who enjoys the social side of life by the sea.
Founded in 1938 as a small hut on Stokes Bay, the club has grown over the decades into one of the South Coast’s top sailing venues. Today, it has 426 members, ranging from competitive sailors to social members, paddleboarders, kayakers, and even cold-water swimmers who enjoy the facilities. “We have a full community spirit,” says Carl. “People of all ages, families, and skill levels come here to enjoy the water and the club.”
Carl’s connection to Stokes Bay Sailing Club runs deep. He learned to sail as a child and continued through his teenage years as a cadet. His family’s ties to the club span generations. His parents met there, with his father once holding the same role he does today as Commodore. “I then met my wife here,” Carl says. He plans to remain a member for many more years, reflecting the club’s strong sense of community and mentorship, where older members guide younger sailors.
Stokes Bay is renowned for its high-quality sailing, with members competing at National, European and World championships. Even Sir Ben Ainsley trained at the club prior to his Olympic success. While the club itself is not a formally recognised sailing school, children and beginners typically learn the basics by sailing with other members or at St Mary’s Junior Sailing Club down the road.
Carl says that Stokes Bay welcomes newcomers in the summer with ad hoc cadet sessions, taster events for adults, and regular class racing on Wednesdays and Sundays. “Small two-person boats are available for those who don’t yet have their own, making it possible for anyone to experience the excitement of sailing in a supportive environment.”
Carl says that the club is not just about sailing. “We have a large social membership for people who enjoy our events, with a bar and galley overlooking the Solent. Stokes Bay Sailing Club is committed to welcoming everyone and provides opportunities for learning and growth.”
According to Carl, eight is a great age to start learning how to sail. “It’s a wonderful outdoor activity that teaches children how to use their environment to handle a boat on the water safely,” he explains. “Sailing gives kids a real sense of achievement – it’s a big moment when they can manage a boat on their own. It builds confidence and teaches responsibility.”
He also points out that sailing is a lifelong sport. “I’m 64 and still sail, and my best friend is 67 and is an Olympic coach and one of the country’s top sailors,” Carl says. Many members continue sailing well into their 70s, showing that it’s a lifelong pursuit that combines skill, enjoyment, and a sense of belonging.
With access to the water, a field for events, and excellent facilities, the club hosts fun days, social evenings, and a variety of watersports activities, including modern disciplines like wing-foiling. Carl says, “The watersports community is evolving, and we want to attract the next generation of sailors and enthusiasts.”
At Stokes Bay Sailing Club, some members race ILCA dinghies formerly known as Lasers, which are an Olympic-class vessel for both men and women. As one of the most competitive and widely sailed classes in the world, the ILCA provides a pathway into elite and Olympic-level sailing. Carl explains that many people are drawn to the club specifically because of the high standard of sailing on offer. “People want to be part of the club to experience some of the best sailing in the country,” he says, highlighting the club’s reputation for excellence on the water as well as its welcoming, community-focused environment.
The club is run almost entirely by a dedicated voluntary committee, with just one paid staff member, ensuring that every member has a voice and a role in shaping the club’s future. “Plans include improving usability of the public slipway and continuing to cultivate an inclusive and engaging culture across a range of sailing and watersports which all can enjoy.”
If you’re interested in joining, Stokes Bay Sailing Club would love to hear from you. Please email: administrator@stokesbay-sc.co.uk