The RYA will have a range of sailing simulators and activities available to try at the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series Portsmouth this weekend.
Whilst the action is taking place on the water, the RYA will be hosting a stand near the western entrance to the Waterfront Festival Arena from Thursday 23 July until Sunday 26 July.
The public will have the chance to feel the spray of the water and the wind whistling through their hair without leaving dry land thanks to the range of sailing simulators that will be present.
Whether you want to speed through the water in a top-of-the-range powerboat or cruise the waves on a windsurfboard, the RYA stand can offer you a glimpse of life on the water.
In partnership with Neilson, the RYA will be offering visitors to the ACWS Portsmouth the chance to take to the water using their virtual Oculus simulator. Using cutting-edge technology, this immersive experience will offer the sense of freedom and adventure that is unique to watersports.
The Lewmar Winch Grinder is the perfect way to demonstrate your strength and impress your mates. Similar to the winch technology used aboard the AC45 flying machines that will be racing during the weekend, the grinder will give you a sample of the strength required to sail these powerful boats. There will be a leader board running throughout the weekend, with the winner from each day receiving a prize for their efforts.
Over at the powerboat simulator, there will be a chance to set a record time around a pre-determined lap, allowing all visitors to experience the thrill of high-speed racing from the safety of our stand.
For those who want to clamber aboard a dinghy and take to the water, there will be the chance to try out the sailing simulators. The simulator allows users to hike out as they try to keep the boat balanced against the forces of wind and waves.
Guy Malpas, Yachting Development Manager for the RYA, believes the stand can offer opportunities for both those wanting to start sailing and also those wishing to re-enter the sport. “We are delighted to be involved in this special event, and look forward to welcoming everyone to our stand. We have a team of experts who can answer your questions and help you take the next steps towards getting afloat. We hope that this unique event will inspire people to take up our great sport.”
Both America’s Cup World Series tickets (including free Waterfront Festival Arena tickets and paid-to-view FanZone Tickets for all four days), and Portsmouth Live! evening tickets are available via www.ticketmaster.co.uk/acwsportsmouth