Day sailing on the Broads
Spend a day under sail on the quiet Upper Thurne.
Hire one of our traditional half decker sailing boats for the day and head out towards Hickling Broad and Horsey Mere. Never sailed? Book a taster with an experienced helm to guide you.
Room for family or friends to share the sailing.
Buoyancy aids and car parking at the yard come with every half decker hire.
We take you through the boat before you set off.
Hickling Broad and Horsey Mere are right on our doorstep.
Two ways to go sailing for the day
Pick the one that matches your sailing experience.
Sailed before?
Hire a half decker
Take the helm yourself. Our half deckers seat up to six and come with a mainsail, jib and full awning. Please talk to us about your sailing experience before booking so we can make sure a half decker suits your group.
Hire a half decker
Never sailed?
Book a sailing taster
A half-day or full-day taster on an open half decker, with an experienced helm on board. You can take part in steering and trimming the sails, or let us know if you'd prefer a less active role.
Sailing tuitionYour sailing day, step by step
Here's what happens when you arrive at our riverside boatyard in Martham.
1
Tell us about your sailing
When you book, let us know your sailing experience and who's coming, and we'll help you choose between hire and a taster.
2
Arrive and park
Come to our riverside boatyard on the Upper Thurne. Car parking at the yard is included in your hire.
3
Buoyancy aids on
Buoyancy aids are provided for everyone on board.
4
Your briefing
We give you a full briefing on the boat before you set off, and answer any questions.
5
Plan your route
Your route will depend on the wind, the weather and the time you have. Our team will help you plan a day that suits the conditions.
6
Set sail
Enjoy reed-lined waterways, open skies and the wildlife of the Broads. Pack a picnic and make a day of it.
7
Need help while you're out?
Just give us a call on 01493 740249.

Where to sail on your day on the river
Our base on the Upper Thurne is ideally placed for open-water sailing.
Hickling Broad
The largest broad, with wide open water to stretch your sails.
Horsey Mere
A peaceful mere near the coast, with plenty of wildlife to spot.
Day sailing questions
Do I need sailing experience?
To hire a half decker yourself, please talk to us about your sailing experience before booking so we can help you decide whether it suits your group. If you've never sailed, a taster with an experienced helm is the best way to start.
How many people can come?
Our half deckers seat up to six people.
What if the weather changes?
Your route depends on the wind and weather on the day. Speak to our team before setting off and we'll help you plan a route that suits the conditions.
Can we stay out for more than a day?
Yes. For overnight camping aboard, up to two mattresses per boat are available on request. Please reserve them when you book.
Can I get some tuition?
Yes. We have Sailing, instructors on our team who can take you out, on our half deckers. Sessions are a minimum of three hours, whether you're a complete beginner or want a refresher.
What to bring
A picnic, warm layers and waterproofs, sun cream and a hat, shoes with a good grip, and gloves for handling ropes.
Loved your day? Sail for longer
When you're ready, a traditional Broads yacht lets you spend a few nights on the water.
First time sailing Rather not sail? Day launchesReady for a day under sail?
Tell us about your sailing and who's coming, and we'll help you plan your day.
Check availability Call 01493 740249