We are open to everyone at Cambridge University - Students, Fellows, Staff, and Alumni. We also admit affiliate members from other universities and educational establishments, and members of the public.
CUYC adheres to a sign-up preference policy to ensure that Junior Members (current students) get priority when signing up for trips and events. Further information is outlined in the CUYC regulations, section 'B.Trip and Course Cost Policy (sign-up preference policy)'.
Not a problem at all. Beginners and complete novices are very welcome on all trips unless stated otherwise. Some adventurous excursions are restricted to experienced sailors only.
If you are a complete novice, there are always people on board who are happy to teach novices the basics. Some skippers fill up their cabin with a whole library of books if you want to know more!
CUYC is an an RYA accredited sailing school, and runs theory and practical training courses. CUYC uses the RYA scheme: Competent Crew and Day Skipper courses typically during the Easter Holidays. When you are ready, we may also coach you for the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Coastal exam, which enables you to be a CUYC Skipper. After that, you have the opportunity to continue to the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Offshore and RYA/MCA Yachtmaster Ocean as part of the RYA Training Scheme, as well as gaining other qualifications in instruction and technical competence.
Further information about the qualifications is outlined on the CUYC Training Scheme page.
Yacht sailing is extremely fun. Yet, like any extreme sport, it is not without risk and participants should make themselves aware of these before embarking on a CUYC trip. All Members shall be personally responsible for deciding whether to start and continue participating in CUYC events.
Each crew has a Skipper holding the RYA Yachtmaster Coastal qualification, and a first mate holding the RYA Day Skipper Qualification or equivalent experience. Additionally, each Skipper holds the RYA First Aid Certificate and RYA VHF/SRC License. The CUYC Training Scheme outlines a full description of their skills and responsibilities.
Please feel free to read our safety policy carefully, and to speak with the Commodore or your skipper if you have any questions.
In the website page for every trip, there is a button 'Kit' that will tell you what you need to bring as clothes, footware and a sleeping bag. In addition, you'll need waterproofs and sea boots to fully enjoy the sailing. If you have some, bring them along. If you don't we have Club Waterproofs and boots onboard Skylark.
Our waterproofs are the MPX range from Musto. Here's a copy of their sizing guide:
| S | M | L | |
| Height |
5'5"-5'7" 165-170cm |
5'8"-5'10" 173-180cm |
5'11"-6'1" 180-185cm |
| Chest |
34"-36" 86-91.5cm |
37"-39" 94-99cm |
40"-42" 101.5-106.5cm |
| Waist |
30" 76cm |
32" 81cm |
34" 86cm |
If you are new to sailing or struggle with seasickness, please consider bringing sea-sickness tablets. Many people use Sturgeon 15 or Kwells, which can be purchased from your pharmacy, but members must make their own choice about whether to take sea-sickness medications and which medications to take. Speak to your GP or Pharmarcy if you want to understand the options available, and for advice on your particular situation.
It is your responsibility to organise adequate travel insurance before embarking on a CUYC trip abroad. Check that the terms and conditions include sailing in coastal waters or offshore sailing (whichever is appropriate for your trip), and add any pre-existing medical conditions.
If you are eligible, please organise a GHIC/EHIC card in addition to adequate travel insurance.
The Sports Service provides personal injury insurance cover to assist CUYC members with expenses that occur after an injury occurring during Club activity within 4.5 miles of the coastline. This policy is not travel insurance. Members are required to organise and use thier personal travel insurance and (if eligible) GHIC/EHIC card before relying on this policy.
CUYC will not accept any liability for personal injury arising from participation in CUYC events, except personal injury caued as a result of its negligence or fraud.