No fewer than 15 Kent sailing and yacht clubs are offering free and discounted sessions as part of Push The Boat Out.

The taster weekend on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18, is part of a national festival of sailing and windsurfing intended to entice potential newcomers to have a go.

Karenza Morton, of organisers the Royal Yachting Association, said: “Regardless of age, experience or ability, clubs across the county are offering the chance to get out on the water to sample sailing and windsurfing at no or low cost, and get a taste for a fantastic, social outdoor sport where everyday life really does get left on the shore.”

Booking is essential for most of the activities. Refreshments will be available at many of them, as barbecues and other social activities are planned to give newcomers a real sense of the community at each club.

Anyone taking part in the sessions is advised to take a change of clothes, soft-soled shoes and a towel. The clubs will provide any other necessary equipment.

All Push The Boat out events are registered, with contact details supplied for booking, on the website www.rya.org.uk/wheresmynearest

WHO’S IN?

Local sailing clubs (SCs) and yacht clubs (YCs) taking part include: Blue Circle SC (Rochester), Bough Beech SC (Edenbridge), Dover Sea Sports, Gravesend SC, Hampton Pier YC (Herne Bay), Herne Bay SC, Margate YC, Medway YC, Minnis Bay SC (Thanet), Royal Cinque Ports YC (Dover), Seasalter SC, Tankerton Bay SC, Tonbridge Town SC, Varne Boat and Social Club (New Romney), and Wilsonian SC (Hoo)

To find your nearest event and get involved, visit www.rya.org.uk/wheresmynearest