Membership Agreement

Southampton Sailing Club New Member Agreement

Welcome to Southampton Sailing Club! We are delighted that you are considering joining our community. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of membership. By completing your online application, you confirm your acceptance of these terms.

1. Membership Application Process

• Members must complete the online application form and submit payment for the membership fee as part of the application process.
• Applications will be reviewed by the committee, and you will be notified of the outcome via email.
• Upon approval, you will receive:
  • A door entry fob
  • Compound key (if applicable)
  • Access to our website

2. General Conduct

• Members must respect other club members, guests, and staff at all times.
• Members must adhere to the club's Code of Conduct and Rules and By-laws.
• Discriminatory, abusive, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated and may result in membership termination.

3. Safety Obligations

• Members must comply with all safety protocols and instructions issued by the club or its representatives.
• Appropriate safety equipment, including life jackets, must be worn when on the water.
• Alcohol or substance use is strictly prohibited before or during sailing activities.

4. Use of Club Facilities

• Club facilities and equipment must be used responsibly and returned in good condition.
• Any damage to club property must be reported immediately. Members may be held liable for repair costs arising from negligence or misuse.
• Members must adhere to operating hours and facility usage guidelines.

5. Participation in Activities

• Members are encouraged to participate in club activities such as races, day sails, and social events.
• Registration for activities may be required, and participation may be limited based on safety or capacity considerations.

6. Membership Fees and Dues

• Membership runs from April 1 to March 31. Fees must be paid in full annually.
• Payments are processed online at the time of application or renewal. Late payments may result in penalties or suspension of privileges.
• Members are responsible for maintaining a record of their payments and ensuring timely renewals.

7. Privacy and Communication

• Members' contact details will be stored securely and used solely for managing club membership and communication purposes.
• The club's primary method of communication is email. Members must keep their contact details up to date and notify the club of any changes.
• Personal information will not be shared with third parties without consent.

8. Use of Images

• Members grant the club permission to use generic photos taken during club activities, where they may appear, for use on the club's website and social media accounts. No identifying details will be shared without explicit consent.

9. Mandatory participation in club duty/duties

As a member of the club, you are required to contribute to its smooth running by undertaking duties each year. This may involve completing one full duty (i.e a compound maintenance day) or splitting your contribution into up to four shorter duties (i.e Bar duties). By accepting this, you agree to fulfill this obligation as part of your membership. Failing to partake in a duty will mean a non-working fee of £100 can be added.

10. Liability Waiver

• Members acknowledge the inherent risks of sailing and participate at their own risk.
• The club is not liable for personal injury, loss, or damage to personal property during participation in club activities or use of facilities.

11. Termination of Membership

• The club reserves the right to terminate membership for breaches of this agreement, the club rules, or behavior deemed detrimental to the club's interests.
• Membership fees are non-refundable upon termination.

12. Amendments to Agreement

• The club reserves the right to amend this agreement. Members will be notified of any changes, which will take effect immediately upon notification.

By completing your online application, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by the terms and conditions of this membership agreement. Failure to comply with these terms may result in suspension or termination of your membership.

We look forward to having you as a valued member of Southampton Sailing Club. For any questions, please contact us at membership@southamptonsailingclub.com or visit us at Victoria Road, Woolston, Southampton, SO19 9EF.

More info....

Membership Information and Guidelines

Welcome to Southampton Sailing Club! We aim to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members. Below is a detailed guide to help you understand the various aspects of membership and club operations.

1. Membership Types

The club offers several membership categories to cater to a diverse range of people and organizations. The main membership types are:

• Full Member: Open to anyone aged 18 or over, granting voting rights at general meetings and eligibility to stand for election to the committee.
• Full Family Membership: Includes two adults and their children under the age of 14.

Additional membership types are outlined in the club's rules, and prospective members will be advised on the best option based on their circumstances and interests.

2. Joining the Club

To become a member:

• Visit the club to meet other members and committee representatives. This also allows you to see the facilities and have any questions answered. Ideally, visits should be on a Wednesday evening between 20:30 and 22:30 during regular club nights.
• Submit a completed application form along with the first year's membership fee, as agreed with the Membership Secretary.
• Applications are reviewed by the committee. If not approved, the membership fee will be refunded.

The membership year runs from April to March. Discounts on joining fees may be available for those joining later in the year. Payment by instalments may be arranged with the Membership Secretary. By signing the application form, you agree to abide by the club's rules and by-laws.

3. Membership Renewal

• Membership must be renewed annually in March or April. Invoices for the upcoming year are issued by the Membership Secretary.
• Members should visit the club to renew in person. In exceptional circumstances and with prior agreement, renewals may be completed via email or other means.

4. Club Administration

The club is managed entirely by volunteers through an elected committee, chaired by the Commodore. The committee meets monthly and handles responsibilities such as:

• Managing finances, insurance, and supplies.
• Organizing sailing and social activities.
• Overseeing facility maintenance and bar operations.

Election to the committee occurs during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) in March. Only full members, nominated and seconded by other full members, may stand for election. Members may also be co-opted to assist with specific roles. Committee meeting minutes are circulated to keep members informed, and members are welcome to attend as observers.

Subcommittees, such as the Training Subcommittee, may be formed to address specific projects or initiatives.

5. Maintenance of Club Facilities

The upkeep of the clubhouse, compound, and moorings is critical to the club's operations. Members are expected to contribute by:

• Participating in working parties organized for specific tasks and projects.
• Paying an annual non-working fee if unable to participate in maintenance activities.

6. Sailing Activities

The club offers a range of sailing opportunities for dinghy and cruiser enthusiasts:

• Cruiser Activities: Annual rallies to Solent-based marinas and anchorages, and occasional cruises to France and the Channel Islands.
• Dinghy Activities: Evening and weekend races and rallies, with storage and easy launching from the compound.
• Training: The club is an RYA-approved training center offering courses in dinghy sailing, powerboat handling, and cruiser qualifications.

Dinghies and a Foxcub 17 cruiser are available for members to borrow. Training membership is available to encourage new members to learn and join the club.

7. Moorings and Compound

• Moorings: Located off the clubhouse and maintained professionally. They are allocated annually by the Moorings Master and are suitable for bilge keel or shoal draft boats. Mooring licences are required.
• Compound: Securely fenced and monitored by CCTV, the compound provides storage for boats and related equipment. Space is allocated by the Compound Master, and all items must display identifying stickers.

8. Social Activities

The club hosts various social events throughout the year, including:

• Talks, workshops, and quizzes.
• BBQs, skittles, and live music nights.
• Private hire of the clubhouse for members and external organizations.

The bar operates on Wednesday evenings and may open on weekends during sailing or social events. Members are encouraged to volunteer for bar duties, which count toward their annual work party commitments.

9. Important Dates to Remember

Stay informed about key events and deadlines by referring to the club's website and member communications.

However the below dates can be used as a rough guide to key dates (subject to agreement on a year by year basis)

Membership runs from - April 15t to March 31st

Moorings Available from - April 15t to November 31st

Summer compound cruisers - June 15 to September 30th

Winter compound cruisers - October 15 to May 315t

Summer compound Dinghies - April 1st to October 31st

Winter compound Dinghies - November 1st to March 31st

For queries on this article - please reach out to publicity@southamptonsailingclub.com

Thanks

Last updated 10:42 on 19 March 2025