History

Brightlingsea Sailing Club can trace it routes back to the yachting boom of the late nineteenth century. In early 1888 the Brightlingsea Parish Magazine reported: "We understand that steps are being taken to form a Sailing Boat Club for Brightlingsea craft.....we understand that the newly formed Brightlingsea Sailing Club is to make its debut under canvas on Easter Monday starting at 1 p.m”.

The early history of the club is full of tales of gentlemen racing and dining and, but for a few interruptions and the war years, there has been a continuous history or racing sailing in Brightlingsea from that time.

The existing clubhouse site was developed after a fund-raising exercise in 1961 and by 1977 the club had completed of the launching ramp allowing sailing at all states of the tide.

Brightlingsea Sailing Club is now over 120 years old and the boats sailed over the years have changed significantly. On a summer’s day, however, one can see old and new sharing the same water:

Although the boats have changed the spirit of competition and friendship that can be traced back through this heritage has not. The Club is firmly anchored in the vibrant community of Brightlingsea and welcomes all-comers to share the magic of its waters

If you want to read more about the history click here for a written record of the club.

with thanks to Eric Rust and others