WHO ARE THE DSA?
‘The DSA is run by the disabled, for the disabled’
The DSA was formed in 2005, its purpose to provide people with a wide range of disabilities, their families and carers, an opportunity to experience the pleasures of safe and affordable yacht sailing. Since then, the organisation has grown, and now includes members of all disabilities, ages and backgrounds, from the local area and beyond. The DSA is run entirely by volunteers and supported through charitable donations and sponsorship, we are based in Torquay and affiliated to the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Sailability Group.
Can I get involved?
Anyone with limited physical mobility or mental health challenges can become full DSA members. Carers are able to accompany members where required as ‘Sail Supporters’ and we also encourage other family members to join the sessions.
Carers are able to accompany members for free after the trial sail of £10. Please note we only allow one carer to sail with a full member for free. Any other sail supporters/carers will be asked for an annual donation of £30. Professional carers will not be charged.
All members have benefited from their sailing experiences with the DSA which, in many cases, has enabled them to perform above and beyond their expectations.
To contact us to find out more about the DSA, or even about having a trial sail please either:
Email us on: enquiries@dsadevon.org.uk
Telephone us on: 07447941724 or 07768 871898
or please complete our web-form below.
How can I get on board as a wheel-chair user?
We have a purpose-built portable bridge which links the pontoon to the stren of the boat. The dual-helm set-up enables wheel-chair users to right up into the cockpit if required and the wheel-chair is then securely strapped down.
Some members who have restricted mobility but use a chair can also come down to the boat on thier chair and then make their way on board using the hand-rails.
All our crew are used to the difficulties some members have getting on board and deal with this in a sympathetic manner.
Where do we sail to?
Usually day trips around Torbay, as well as further afield to Dartmouth and beyond, we have even taken groups to France and the Channel Islands. The DSA competes in the Annual Eddystone Challenge Pursuit race off Plymouth which raises funds for the DSA and provides a competitive challenge for the crews! We often see dolphins, seals, and other interesting wildlife during our trips, so please bring your cameras?
Who are the crew?
The crew are all volunteers who have been assessed as competent by the DSA Training and Standards Group. Most DSA skippers hold RYA qualifications and all have many years sailing experience. All crew have been fully DBS checked reflecting our high safeguarding standards, given that we are dealing with more vulnerable adults and children.
What boats do we sail?
We have two spacious yachts, “DSA Free Spirit” and “DSA Freedom”. Both have been adapted to take wheelchairs and fitted with extra grab handles for safety whilst moving around the boats.They can be accessed via a portable bridge for ease of embarking and dis-embarking. ( see picture )
How safe is it?
The DSA takes the safety of our members very seriously and our track record since we have been established is exemplary. Both boats have been upgraded with additional safety equipment to meet the highest RYA safety standards. Furthermore, all crew are required to undergo regular training in emergency procedures on the water. Members are briefed on safety procedures at the beginning of every sailing session.