Cruising with EAST
EAST first began in 1992 with the idea of providing cruising opportunities for those with visual impairments with the first cruise taking place in 1993, pre-dating our keelboat sailing by three years. 30 years later we have developed a strong cruising section at EAST that caters for visually impaired adults (18+) and offers supported cruises on member’s private yachts which are typically between 30 and 40 feet long. The VI Cruises as we call them, visit a variety of locations on the East Coast. Absolute beginners are welcome and we cater for all levels of visual impairment.
Our cruising section relies upon owner skippers volunteering to come along on a cruise with their yacht for a 2, 3 or 8 day cruise.
Our cruises usually take place over two weekends in the early summer, with a longer eight day cruise in the early autumn. We aim to have around 10 yachts on each cruise and an Admiral who coordinates the event, though this number can vary. Each yacht sails with one or two visually impaired crew and one or two competent sighted crew.
The visually impaired crew take an active role on board involving many aspects of general crewing and domestic duties including helming either with or without an audio compass. The cruises are great fun with an excellent social programme as well as excellent sailing.
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​We are always looking for more yacht owners, skippers, sighted and visually impaired crew. Taster days and taster weekends are undertaken before taking part in a longer cruise.
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​For more information email cruisingsec@e-a-s-t.org.uk