Private Sailing on Lake Windermere: 10-Metre Yacht Charter

Take the helm of a ocean-going yacht on England's largest lake

Private sailing experience on Lake Windermere aboard a 10-metre Beneteau Oceanis Clipper yacht for groups of 1 to 8, with a skipper who has sailed the lake for two decades. You choose how involved you get: hoist and trim the sails, steer, tack and jibe, or sit back and let the skipper handle it all. The yacht has a private bathroom, central heating and a well-stocked bar at reasonable prices. Buoyancy aids in all sizes are provided. Minimum age is 8 years.

The Experience

The yacht itself is a 10-metre ocean-going Beneteau Oceanis Clipper (a boat built for open water, not a lake tender), which means you're sailing something with real weight and responsiveness beneath you. The skipper has logged 20 years on Windermere and tailors the trip to your group: if you want hands-on instruction in hoisting, trimming, tacking and steering, he'll teach you. If you want to sit on deck with the views and let him work, that's the plan too. First-time sailors and experienced ones alike find their level here.

The boat carries a private bathroom and central heating, which matters on a lake where the weather can turn fast and a 90-minute sail means you're out there for the full stretch. The bar is stocked at prices that don't punish you for a drink on the water. Buoyancy aids fit all sizes and are provided. You bring clothing suited to the day's conditions. Groups stay small, maximum eight, so there's room to move and the skipper knows everyone on board.

Windermere sits in the Lake District, and public transport reaches the lake, so you don't need a car to get there. The skipper handles the logistics of where you board and when. Once you're on the water, the day is yours to shape: active or restful, depending on what you came for.

What’s included

• Buoyancy aids in all sizes.
• private bathroom and central heating on board.
• well-stocked bar at reasonable prices.
• sailing instruction tailored to your experience level.
• skipper with 20 years of experience on Windermere.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Sail 'N' Dine

Is this one for you?Book this if you want hands-on sailing instruction or prefer to relax as a passenger (the skipper adapts to your comfort level), and you can reach Windermere by public transport without needing onward transport to the boat.

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Top questions

Can I actually sail the yacht myself, or does the skipper do all the work?

You choose. The skipper will teach you to hoist and trim the sails, handle the tiller, tack and jibe if you want the hands-on experience, or you can sit back and watch him sail while you enjoy the lake and the views. Most groups mix both: some people take a turn at the helm while others relax.

What's the weather like on Windermere, and what should I wear?

Windermere is England's largest natural lake in the Lake District, so weather changes quickly and the wind can be brisk off the water. Bring layers and waterproof clothing suited to the season. The boat has central heating inside, but you'll be on deck for much of the sail. The skipper can advise on conditions when you book.

Is this suitable for someone who has never sailed before?

Yes. The skipper tailors the trip to your experience level, whether you're a keen sailor or trying it for the first time. The boat's size and the skipper's 20 years on the lake mean you're in steady hands, and buoyancy aids in all sizes are provided for safety.

How do I get to the boat if I don't have a car?

Public transportation options are available near Windermere. The skipper will confirm the boarding point and time when you book, so you can plan your arrival from wherever you're staying in the area.

What's included in the price, and what costs extra?

Buoyancy aids and the sailing experience itself are included. The bar on board is well stocked at very reasonable prices if you want a drink during the sail. Minimum age is 8 years. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.