Unlike most sailing clubs, the Hosteller's Sailing Club is largely concerned with dinghy cruising. It is based at Paglesham on the River Roach, a tributary of the Crouch in Essex, but members are also active elsewhere. Most of its key members are also members of the Dinghy Cruising Association and I understand that the HSC was involved in the DCA's formation. The HSC is also a local group of the Youth Hostels Association and offers a few winter hostelling meets for those who like country walks.

Of particular interest to DCA members are the HSC’s cruises in company which are generally on the East Coast. These cruises are basically in the club’s two Wayfarers, with members' own boats included if and when necessary. Those sailing in the club Wayfarers bring their own camping gear and camp on shore, but those in their own boats camp on board or ashore as they wish. Polytarp camping covers could be rigged on the club Wayfarers if anyone wished, or a proper Wayfarer tent could be hired. Weekend cruises have been arranged to sail to DCA East Coast meets but the main annual cruises tend to be more adventurous. (Any member is free to propose a cruise or day-sailing trip, the club Wayfarers are currently under-used). It is a very friendly caring and inclusive club, during its cruises members are daily switched from one boat to another to ensure that there is no favouritism or cliqueiness. Practical and written tests must be taken before a member is allowed to skipper a club boat, but free instruction is available. (Personally I find the practical test too elementary, but the written test is very sensible.)

HSC membership could particularly appeal to DCA members who might like to try more sociable cruising or who do not feel confident enough to undertake coastal cruising on their own. Travel to Paglesham should not be a problem; London area members can usually offer lifts. Both membership and boat-use fees are modest. Associate membership (for those who sail their own boats rather than the club boats) costs a nominal £6 pa.

Contact through club website at HYPERLINK "http://www.sail.btinternet.co.uk" www.sail.btinternet.co.uk or phone DCA members Frank Howarth (020 7207 4981) or John Perry (01923 855268). A day for prospective new members is planned for 14th. and possibly also the 15th. June but prospective members are welcome to all events.