instow yacht club

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Dart 15 Nationals at NDYC

North Devon Yacht Club 

Hosting the Dart 15 Nationals 

12th – 14th October 2024

Further details, Click here 

2nd - 29th September bar opening hours

Monday  Closed

Tuesday 11am 10pm

Wednesday 11am 10pm

Thursday 11am 10pm

Friday 11am 10pm

Saturday 11am 10pm

Sunday 12noon 10pm

In addition a selection of Pizzas, Pasties, Cakes, Snacks and Hot Drinks are available when the bar is open

NDYC  is an accredited  RYA  Training Centre :  We have everything for first time sailors  RYA  qualification Stages 1-5 and Levels 1-3, Spinnaker, Start Racing, Seamanship & Instructor courses.

Racing:  Every weekend and an Open Week 10-18 August 2024

Follow On Training, Youth Squad and Young Pirates:  This is for those who just want to build up a bit of confidence on the water & have fun.

Note you must be a member to book a course.

All training is now on the calendar and is available to book.

Power Boats

PB Level 2 & Safety Boat courses:  They are run throughout the year and provide great boat handling and safety accreditation.

Welcome to the NDYC website.

The website will give you access to all the club facilities.  Please login and update your data where needed.

To join the club use the tab at the top of the page.

Latest news

September newsletter.

Find out what you can join in with this month at your club! More »

Two Rivers map with racing marks

Here is a pdf showing the racing marks we use. This or a better one will get a place within the main menu when it is reconfigured. More »

13 Aug 2024

2024 Year Book

Yer actual 2024 Handbook More »

19 Jul 2024

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10 Jul 2024

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North Devon Yacht Club

North Devon Yacht Club was originally formed in 1905 as the Taw and Torridge SC.

Two years later the Round House on the quay was leased as the clubhouse and heated arguments arose between the members over finance. Some influential members had joined only to play bridge, so when in 1910 a deficit arose in the accounts, it was suggested that one of the club’s few boats be sold. Sailing members were not amused.

Another issue was that women members had been given equal rights to the men, which some on the committee wished to revoke. The result was a breakaway group forming the North Devon SC. Hostilities were postponed in the Great War and they eventually reunited in 1926 – with the name changing to North Devon YC after World War II. The first sailing craft of the club were designed by Morgan Gites, and the commission was to build a sturdy boat able to stand the strong winds from the Atlantic and the conditions of the estuary. The boat was called the Taw and Torridge One-Design and was built by the Appledore firm of Hinks, Waters and Blackmore for a cost of £24 complete with sails, iron centre board, oars, ballast and anchor. These lasted until 1926, being replaced by a new one-design fitted with the ultra-modern Bermuda Rig. These boats were in service until the Wayfarers were introduced in 1960. In 1971, the old railway line closed — it now has wide leisure use as the Tarka Trail — and the former Instow station and yard was purchased, and a new clubhouse built.

There are some famous names associated with the club. The first commodore was Rear Admiral Sir Edward Chichester who played a significant part in the Spanish-American War of 1898. At any rate on his death, a squadron of USA ships escorted his body home. The Chichester name will give a clue to another famous member, Sir Francis Chichester, who sailed the world in ‘Gypsy Moth IV’. Henry Williamson, author of Tarka the Otter , was an active member in the 1930s. Nowadays the club has 550 members, of which just over 100 are cadets. The majority of members own boats, there are some 70 cruisers, 25 dayboats, 40 motor boats, a large monohull and fast catamaran fleet and 35 Sprint 15 Sports — the largest such fleet in the country. The club owns a fleet of Picos, Sport 14s and Wayfarers for training purposes. The club is also an RYA teaching establishment, providing instructors and safety boat courses, dinghy sailing courses and RYA courses for cadets.

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Location and sailing area of North Devon Yacht Club North Devon YC is near Instow, a picturesque village on the estuary of the Rivers Taw and Torridge. The village is six miles from Barnstaple and three miles from Bideford. Most visitors travel from junction 27 of the M5 up the North Devon link road A361 to Barnstaple, then following the grandly-named Atlantic Highway A39 towards Bideford. Instow is signposted off this road. The sailing waters are always interesting. Tides at Bideford range from 6.3m on a high spring tide to 2.9m on a neap. As we sail on the estuary, we can only get on the water about two hours before high tide. Most races start from Inner Home about one and a half hours before high tide and head out to Puttermouth buoy or up towards Bideford bar at Inner Pulley. In light winds you have to get out of the tide if possible. The tide runs less fiercely off Instow beach and there are back eddies off Appledore. The downside is that you run the risk of running aground on Instow beach and the wind is often fickle off Appledore. The tide runs particularly fiercely in the main channel between Appledore and Inner Pulleys, especially near the lifeboat moorings. The solution is to go amongst the moorings off Appledore where the tide is lighter. The danger is catching your rudder in moorings, or worse still, being too brave and catching rudders on the rocks at the edge of the water – very expensive! Once out into Skern Bay or by Pulleys, you usually get more constant wind. The water round Inner Pulley is often a challenge. The prevailing wind is straight off the sea. Inner and Outer Pulley buoys guard the notorious Bideford Bar, which visiting yachts are rightfully wary about. The waves as the water reaches the bar are often breaking above you. For the dinghy sailors keeping upright is the main issue here. With a good Force 4-5 wind, the sailing is however superb. Dinghy sailors should give Inner Pulleys a wide berth. As you round it the tide is pushing you onto it – it’s big and green and makes an awful sound when you hit it. For visiting cruisers, getting into the estuary requires careful handling. On the one side is Bideford Bar, on the other is North Shore – basically an extension of Saunton Sands beach, with Braunton Burrows behind. At night, entrance involves lining up the leading lights which gives a safe passage into the estuary but the margin for error is not that great.

Facilities There is a large clubhouse with lounge, bar and kitchen facilities, plus a control tower is on the second floor. The changing rooms are housed in the old station waiting room – but much refurbished. Access is easy with good parking at the clubhouse and vehicule access to the boat park. The boat park accommodates all cruisers for winter storage.

What the sailors say

Steve Richardson is a member of the Sprint 15 fleet and also owns a Wayfarer. He has been a member for four years.

“When I moved to Instow, I wanted to get back into sailing which I hadn’t done for a number of years. This club has been fantastic. It’s really friendly and has a brilliant atmosphere. People came out with me to get me going again, and nobody seemed to mind when I was last in by miles, keeping the rescue boat out long after the rest were in!”

“The Sprint 15 fleet is very active. Sunday races are the busiest with 20-plus 15s sometimes. Helms take it seriously, but there is a good level of banter. The bar is a good place to mull over the race and discuss the near misses and the capsizes. On a summer’s day after a race, sitting on the balcony with a pint, looking out over the estuary after a race has got to be one of life’s little pleasures.”

“Throughout the winter and in the season, there are many dinners, barbeques and other events that keep people together.”

Pat Hughes is vice commodore. She sails a 30ft MacWester Wight ketch ‘Hideaway’.

She said, “The club is a jolly and friendly place. It is so diverse, and with all the different boats it makes it interesting. The club is in a stunning setting. It is special because a lot of people who sail here started off as cadets so they keep an attachment to the club.”

Marylee Scott is aged 17, and a cadet member and instructor. She has sailed at the club for some eight years. “The club is very welcoming to new members. People are always willing to help. Cadets are a great opportunity to meet new people, making new friends but learning to sail as well. We have social events every month when we all meet up. In cadets week we sail off to Crow Point for a picnic. The racing games are a lot of fun.”

Vital statistics

Contact: North Devon YC, Instow, Bideford EX39 4HW

Website: www.ndyc.org includes pictures, weather information and a webcam

Membership fees: Family £80 plus £14 joining fee, Cadet £31; temporary membership £26 per week

Boat park: Cruiser winter fees £3.80/ft

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North Devon Yacht Club in Instow, Devon, United Kingdom | Sailing | Full Details

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North devon yacht club in instow, devon, united kingdom | sailing.

Welcome to the North Devon Yacht Club , Instow /index.html"> Instow , United Kingdom .html"> United Kingdom .   At the North Devon Yacht Club we have a fantastic range of member boats from picos to fast cats to cruisers. During the season we run Sailing most weekends weather permitting! The club hosts many national Sailing events and also training for young and old. All sailors are welcome even if you just fancy coming down for a chat and a beer! Over the last 100 years the North Devon Yacht Club has turned out a huge range of talented sailors. We have many Sailing courses for both young and old, Level 1-5 & instructor RYA qualifications, big boats and little ones too!Please be aware that you must be an active sailor to keep your boat at the club and we do not have space for you to house your boat here while you make fundamental repairs (due to a shortage of space and excess demand). The new emerging fleet at the North Devon Yacht Club , United Kingdom .html"> Instow , United Kingdom is the Spitfire. We currently have 11 boats and it looks like 2 more will joint the fleet this 2008 season. We run 2 races every weekend with usually a good showing of boats.

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North Devon Yacht Club

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About Instow

Instow is a picturesque village situated on the estuary where the rivers Taw and Torridge meet. It commands panoramic views of the estuary, the sea and the surrounding countryside. The Instow Parish has around 800 households and a population of 660 in the 2021 census, of which an estimate of 580 live within the village, with a small number living in outlying farms and cottages.

Developed in the early nineteenth century much of Instow has retained its character due to an enlightened policy of the Christie family who own Tapeley Park and a large part of the village. A major part of it is in a conservation area. Development of small groups of more modern housing has occurred in the last fifty years allowing a greater diversity of residents and many properties are second homes or holiday lets.

For those who like to eat and drink Instow has many pubs, hotels and restaurants. From South to North, The Quay, The Commodore, Instow Arms, The Boathouse and the Wayfarer. There are also many Bed and Breakfasts and several homes are also Airbnb or available for short term letting.

The village has a very well stocked deli shop (Johns) and Post Office on Marine Parade and a garage repair centre in Mollands yard near the Parish Hall. Situated between Barnstaple and Bideford it has all the advantages of village life but with excellent bus transport giving access to the facilities of large towns. The most frequent service being the Number 21 or 21A.

A small passenger ferry service, a Community Enterprise run by volunteers, operates between Instow and Appledore on the opposite shore, from April to October. Started in 2011 with the aid of grants from local organisations and the Lottery, it is popular with locals and visitors alike. Operating 2 hours either side of high tide, last year it carried over 28,000 passengers, plus bicycles, and dogs.

The Tarka Trail passes through Instow, providing an easy means for people to arrive by foot or on bike. This section of the Trail is also part of the South West Coast Path, offering longer walks along the coast.

Contact details Contact information for the businesses and organisations mentioned on this page can be found on our Community page

Attractions and Facilities

Instow has an active sporting life. The beach and estuary attract many holiday makers, local families, swimmers and walkers. The long distance South West Coastal path runs through the village and the Tarka Trail with its excellent tarmac surface is a 180 mile long route forming part of National Cycle Network route number 27. The North Devon Yacht Club has had its home in Instow since 1905 and as well as a large adult membership it has a flourishing Cadet section. The North Devon Cricket Club, which was established in 1823 has an excellent ground with outstanding views, a unique pavilion and has long been a favourite of touring teams. The 11(ATT) Squadron Royal Marines based in the village at Arromanches Camp is a significant user of the sea and shore.

St. John The Baptist

The Grade 1 listed Church of St. John The Baptist is situated on a hill above the village and dates back to the C12 with extensive restoration in the Victorian period. The Church is open to visitors during the day usually being opened around 10 am and closed around 4 pm. There is a map of the churchyard at the back of the church along with a list of all the known graves. Visitors are welcome. There are regular Sunday services.

All Saints Chapel

Situated in the centre of the village next to the allotments was given by Napier Orphoot in 1936 as a 'Chapel of Ease' to give parishioners easier access to services. This small delightful building with Art Deco and Byzantine features has a garden with small play equipment for young children and a car park.

All Saints Community Centre

 In 2011 All Saints Chapel use was extended to being a small community centre. As a 'Drop-In Centre' it aims to relieve social isolation, providing refreshments, light lunches and company. It has quickly established itself as an excellent venue for the community to meet informally, for regular activities or for organisations to hold committee meetings, parties or fairs. At present there is a regular drop in session between 10.30 am and 12.30 pm on Mondays, anyone is welcome.

Instow Community Primary School

Education has been provided in the village from as early as 1772 and today Instow has a thriving primary school with approx. primary 143 pupils and 26 preschool pupils, coming from the village and surrounding areas. It has been described by OFSTED a successful school which also noted the strong support from parents and the community.

Instow village hall

This was given to the Community by the Christies. It is regularly used for all kinds of activities.

The village has an active social life with regular activities including Table Tennis, Pilates, choirs, writing, keep fit and a Tai Chi Group, a Drama Group and a long established Twinning with Arromanches. There is a large very active WI with their own book groups, gardening club, walking club and craft club.

Parish Magazine

Good communication is achieved through a free monthly Parish Magazine which goes to over a 1000 households and outlets. All organisations are encouraged to contribute articles. A new residents' association is in the process of being formed.

Situated on the Tarka Trail at the south end of the village there is a famous old railway signal box. This is over 130 years old and was the UK's first Grade II listed signal box. It used to control the signals at Instow Station and also the operation of the level crossing. It is open to the public on occasional Sundays and Bank Holidays. An image can be viewed in our Photo Gallery.

Listed Buildings in Instow

There are many listed buildings in Instow and these can be viewed at British Listed Buildings in Instow .

‹‹ More About The Parish

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Instow- things to do and see

Instow is a pretty, unspoilt seaside village with large stretches of sandy beaches and dunes. Fishermen’s cottages nestle against shops and a good selection of pubs and restaurants.  The village store and delicatessen are superb and very soon Johns will add a cafe.

Instow is on the estuary where the rivers Taw and Torridge meet, between the villages of Westleigh and Yelland and on the opposite bank of Appledore.  The Tarka Trail passes through Instow, providing an easy means for people to arrive by foot or on bike.  This section of the Trail is also part of the South West Coast Path offering longer walks along the coast. 

The beach is a haven for dog walkers as there are no restrictions throughout the year for walking dogs on the beach, of course dog owners are expected to pick up after their dogs!

The North Devon Cricket Club must have one of the best positions, overlooking the estuary and Appledore.  Founded in 1823 and moved to its present position in 1836.

The North Devon Yacht Club located in Instow has regular racing during the summer and an annual regatta. 

For more information about North Devon try the following links:

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Call for entries – RNLI fundraising exhibiton Instow

Posted on 27 june 2022 in news.

RNLI APPLEDORE

MIXED MEDIA ART EXHIBITION

NORTH DEVON YACHT CLUB, INSTOW

20 to 23 OCTOBER 2022

This Annual exhibition is run by RNLI Appledore Guild, in order to raise funds to support the Royal National Lifeboat Institution. It takes place at The North Devon Yacht Club, Instow.

Key dates 2022

Application opens: Friday 1 July 2022

Application closes: Monday 1 August 12 midday

£10 submission fee, (no refund) 25% commission on  sales.

Exhibition open to the public            Thurs 20/21/22 Oct: 10am to 5pm

                        Sun 23 Oct 10am to 2pm

Exhibition closes to the public    Sun 24 Oct: 2pm

Dismantle & collect your Artwork:    Sun 24 Oct: 3pm – 5pm

For application form, please email: [email protected]

RASING FUNDS FOR RNLI APPLEDORE

RNLI Art Show

The RNLI art show has been held at North Devon Yacht Club, Instow for over thirty years, showcasing original paintings, prints and cards from local artists. 2024 celebrates the RNLI’s 200th year of saving lives – their first hundred years saw them evolve lifeboats from oar and sail-powered vessels to the first motor rescue craft. During their second century, those lifeboats developed almost beyond recognition, and they added lifeguards, water safety and international projects to their lifesaving work. They’re saving more people, in more ways, in more places – and they’re counting on you to get involved.

2024 Art Show

North Devon Yacht Club, Instow 19 & 20 October 2024 10-5pm Licensed Bar and Cafe FREE ADMISSION

We welcome submissions from all artists in Devon & Cornwall, excluding photography. Our theme this year is “Time and Tide”.

“To celebrate the 200th anniversary of the RNLI, our theme is inspired by time… capturing a moment; the changing weather and seasons; the movement of the tides and rivers… it is open to your personal interpretation.”

Art Show Comittee

Roy Broad, Sally Adamou and Caroline Hunt Art Show Co-ordinators – Wendy Harrison and Lee Holman

Fundraising for RNLI Appledore Supported by: Chichester Developments North Devon Yacht Club

2024 Timeline

Open Call: 1st June Deadline for submissions: 19th August Artists notified: early September Delivery of artwork: Instow Yacht Club, 17th Oct 5-7pm Private view: Friday 18th Oct, 7pm Artist Social: Saturday 19th Oct, 5pm Exhibition Dates: Sat 19th & Sun 20th Oct, 10-5pm Collection of unsold work: Sunday 22nd Oct, 5.30-7pm

golf & yacht club

Welcome to the World of Golf!

All is for sake of golf

Pestovo Golf club is built in accordance with international standards and it doesn’t have any analogs in Moscow and Moscow Region. The championship course is prepared for games at the highest level — it can host prestigious major tournaments. Professional coaches of the Golf academy can teach a beginner or give valuable advice to already experienced golfers and children Academy will develop the potential of the youngest golfers.

Membership in the private closed club «Pestovo» is a lifetime privilege opening multifaceted opportunities of sports and cultural life of modern golf community.

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Away from the bustle

Pestovo golf club is situated in a picturesque place on the shore of Pestovo reservoir. Here is no city noise but only fresh air, landscapes and cozy country houses. Its nature and developed infrastructure turn Pestovo into a quiet corner for family vacation.

Moscow region

City district Mitishi Village Rumiancevo, Nikolskaya st., private demesne 1, building 1

With care of your recreation

There are all the necessary things in our country complex for comfortable rest of your entire family. This is not only a championship golf course but it’s also a club house, restaurant, fitness club and yacht club. Qualified staff puts the life in the country club on a new level.

The restaurant «Pestovo»

Yacht club «Pestovo»

Winter Golf

One of the most memorable events of the winter season took place.