New Andrew Simpson Yachting training centre opens in Haslar Marina

Based in Haslar Marina in Gosport, the new Andrew Simpson Yachting training centre of excellence offers a wide range of RYA-approved shore-based and practical courses.

Participants will be offered an introduction into the sport of sailing yachts or to learn new skills on their own boats. A taster of training disciplines on offer includes yachting, sail cruising, motor cruising, powerboat, shore-based courses and own-boat tuition for individuals or groups.

Paul Outram, manager at Andrew Simpson Yachting, says: “Powered by the Andrew Simpson Centres, drawing on the wealth of experience in the wider watersports sector, the latest not-for-profit venture at Haslar Marina looks to widen the offering to make boating in all disciplines accessible to participants of all levels, ages and abilities.”

Underpinned by the Andrew Simpson Foundation’s ethos of sailing for all, the new training centre will continue to increase the numbers of people enjoying activities on the water in what is already a hub for boating in the Solent on the South Coast. The centre will also help educate and develop career pathways within the local marine and maritime sector.

With a practical training centre as well as a classroom facility located at Haslar Marina in Gosport supported by boatfolk, Andrew Simpson Yachting is able to offer an extensive range of learning opportunities.

Ben Lippiett, Haslar Marina manager – boatfolk, says: “We are delighted to be welcoming Andrew Simpson Yachting to Haslar Marina. We have been working with the Andrew Simpson Foundation over several years as they continue to work tirelessly around the UK getting kids afloat and transforming lives through sailing.

“They have an outstanding reputation, and we are thrilled that they are upscaling their training offer to additionally cater for our marina customers, and the wider community. Whether it will be your first time getting afloat on a stand-up paddle board, or getting your Yacht Master qualification, we can proudly say that Haslar Marina, in partnership with Andrew Simpson Yachting, is now the place to be!”

The venture will also draw from existing Foundation programmes running in the area, such as the Portsmouth Sail Training Trust.