Royal Air Force Yacht Club

Royal Air Force Yacht Club

Frequently Asked Questions

Version October 2009 V3

Club History

The Royal Air Force Yacht Club was founded in 1932 when the officers at RAF Calshot a leading flying boat based decided to have a yacht club.The club is formally referred to as the Royal Air Force Yacht Club or less formally the RAF Yacht Club shortened to RAFYC. We are no longer directly associated with the RAF however we are still proud to maintain a close working relationship with the services. You may well meet serving and retired members of the forces active within the Club but you are just as likely to see doctors, nurses, policemen, teachers and other professionals. For a number of years we have been open to all to apply and we like to keep a welcome for all potential members who share an interest in boats and boating.

Affiliated Clubs

The RAFYC has a number of clubs with which we reciprocate, this means that as a member of this Club you will be made welcome there. In most cases you should call ahead to confirm availability. The list of affiliated clubs is located on the web site under About Us.

Club Access: When open, Gate / Door Keys

There are a number of locks which can be opened using the current club access card or a key pad combination.

These are

The Front Door of the Club (Access Card),

The rear door of the club (Keypad)

The internal access door (Access Card)

The Entrance Barrier (Access Card),

The Gate to the Hammerhead (Keypad)

The electrical switch locker at The head of the walkway. (Numeric combi lock)

The Gate to Q pontoon (Keypad),

The gate out from the car park to the "Sin Bin" (Numeric combi lock)

and the Outboard shed (Numeric combi lock).

All members should already be provided with an Access Card. The latest number for the keypad and the Combination locks will be the same and communicated to members via the office. They may be periodically changed.

Visitors to the club are provided with a short term access card with limited access rights from the office.

The office is normally open for Members between 09.00 and 16.00 on Monday to Friday.
Office phone: 023 8045 2208
Office email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Bar & Restaurant phone: 023 8045 3278 (see hours below)

Clubhouse facilities:

The Club has a number of facilities available to members which are described below:-

WIFI

The Club WIFI system is being enhanced to provide greater range, this facility is available to members only. In order to use the facility you need to obtain an electronic WEP key number from the office. (This is also published on the registered part of the web site - login and search for WIFI)

To protect both the club's Internet bandwidth and liability in the case of unlawful access it is Club policy to restrict certain categories of internet site. These categories include social networking and file sharing, we regret that even searches returning entries in these categories will be blocked. If you believe this is unreasonable please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to review this policy.

Website enrolment

The process for gaining access to the members' section of the web site is to go to www.rafyc.co.uk and then create or register an account with your details. These will then be checked against the members' database and you will be allowed in after checks have been completed.

Laundry

The Club has a laundry room with a large volume washer and a tumble dryer which are available for use by members for the purpose of washing clothes - not for sails or other items please.

Club Lounge

The Club has a lounge available to members with comfortable sofas and chairs and a TV and DVD. There is a small library with various books and magazines available to members for their enjoyment when in the Club.

Hot Drinks Vending Machine

There is a coin operated hot drinks machine situated under the stairs that can provide tea, coffee and hot chocolate; there are plastic cups and spoons with sugar an milk available for when the bar and or restaurant are shut.

Club Computer

In the Club lounge we have a club computer which has internet access. This computer is electronically cleaned regularly so please do not store any data on it for any period of time.

To protect both the club's Internet bandwidth and liability in the case of unlawful access it is Club policy to restrict certain categories of internet site. These categories include social networking and file sharing, we regret that even searches returning entries in these categories will be blocked. If you believe this is unreasonable please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to review this policy.

Hammerhead Pontoon

The Hammerhead Pontoon is the T shaped Pontoon accessed via the walkway across the Royal Southern Yacht Club's car park and through a gate that is unlocked with a club key. Short term mooring is available normally for loading and unloading and there is electricity and an electrical dinghy pump available on this pontoon. Exceptionally, extended mooring is available only by prior arrangement with the Rear Commodore Sailing.

Club Pontoon

The club pontoon is available for the launching and recovery of dinghies via the slipway and the recovery of tenders on trolleys is assisted by the provision of an electric winch at the top of the jetty. The club pontoon slipway should be kept clear for other users and the tying of tenders to the pontoon is permitted only of the south side of the pontoon. There is a 20 minute limit on larger vessels mooring on the north side of the pontoon either to use the fresh water supply or to wait for access to the scrubbing berths.

Scrubbing Bays

We have an excellent facility available to members for their boats in the form of two scrubbing bays which can be used subject to tidal access. These bays 'North' and 'South' are bookable via the web site and the office. A powerful pressure washer is available with a long hose to reach the end of the slipway and allow you to scrub off your hull. Owners and skippers are responsible for the safe usage of this facility according to Club guidelines. Any member using the scrubbing berth is required to reserve their space. You can obtain details of the member using the berth immediately before you from the bar book.

There is a list of instructions at the front of the book which includes details of timings for moving on and off the scrubbing bays. Any issues should be reported to a Flag Officer or a member of staff.

Tidal Heights (Estimated) Allow for weather conditions

Scrubbing bay is at CD+2m approx although there is slope upwards towards the shore wall. The tide guage reads to a level approximately half way up the slope

Terms of use of the club scrubbing bays

The RAF Yacht Club will not be held liable for accidents, howsoever caused

• 1. The steps and the base of the dock are liable to be slippery. Hold the handrail when using the steps.
• 2. The pressure washer is an industrial unit which develops more pressure than a domestic unit. Make sure you are braced before operating the trigger. Do not point the nozzle at other people. At close range the spray is powerful enough to remove paint, trackmark etc.
• 3. Do not operate the pressure washer before 0800 and after 2100 to avoid disturbance.
• 4. Ensure that the boat is well secured to the piles or wall so that it cannot fall over.
• 5. The booking is for the day when entering the docks, leaving on the first high water after 0700 on the following day.
• 6. At neap tides it may not be possible to enter or leave the docks, you are responsible for checking the tide tables at your own risk.
• 7. Please ensure that you pay before commencing work (Members £10 and non members £30) Ensure that you retain your receipt as proof of payment.
• 8. Please notify the office or bosuns if you have any problems. If you have any suggestions they would also be happy to receive them.
• 9. Please return the dock and the equipment to a tidy state after use
• 10. Please ensure that you dispose of any materials in line with environmental obligations.

Car Parking: Permits (and how many allowed per member?), use of car park (how long), use by visitors (especially crew)

Following a review of the car parking at the Club, the decision has been made to issue annual Car Park Permits. They are being issued on request by the member from August 2009 with an implementation period of two months. Permits for 2010 were issued on renewal of membership. Members will be required to state the registration numbers of their vehicles.

A secure key cupboard will also be available for the safe keeping of member's keys that are left at the club when a vehicle is parked in a location where it may need to be moved. This cupboard will be accessible to the bar staff.

Parking for guests and visitors is severely limited. By previous arrangement if guests may be registered with the office and  a temporary permit obtained. Alternatively guests and visitors should park off site.

In order to enable full access, it may be necessary to double park in approved areas only. In this case it is essential that you check in your keys with the office to allow free movement of vehicles.

A number of other measures are under review to improve the availability for members including increasing the number of spaces by changing dinghy spaces.

Club Car Park Barrier

The club barrier at the entrance to the car park is operated by a member's access card or alternatively from the bar or office on request.

It is against Club policy to swipe in non members without permission. any tailgating can be dangerous and will be treated as a serious breach of club rules.

Bar: Opening hours, obtaining members discount

The opening hours for the bar vary based on season; they are normally published on the web site and on the Club notice board. For a small number of specific events such as the AGM and New Members' evenings, the bar is shut to non-members. Members not attending the function will only be able to use the Members' lounge obtaining drinks from the Members' bar. Members can gain the member discount on drinks on production of their membership card.

It is important to ensure that all guests sign in the visitors' book.

Note children under the age of 15 are not allowed in the bar area after 2100 hours and are not allowed to be at the bar at any time.

Dogs are allowed in the bar and the Lounge but not the restaurant. They should be kept on a lead at all times within the clubhouse.

Restaurant : Opening hours, how to book etc

The opening hours for the restaurant vary primarily based on season; they are normally published on the web site and on the club notice board. Restaurant bookings should be made through the Bar on 023 8045 3278.

Accommodation

The club has 4 rooms available for overnight accommodation; 2 double, 1 with en suite, and 2 twin rooms. The rates are very competitive and include a self service continental style breakfast. Bookings should be made through the Office and keys may be collected during bar hours.

Private hire of function rooms

The Club is often used for members' private events. Both the Riverside Room and the club lawns (for marquees) can be booked via the office, who will coordinate with the club caterers.

Club Moorings: how many, what type, Ts&Cs, how to apply

The Club moorings are allocated on an annual basis for a one year contract by ballot. The ballot is open in the first instance to members who have been in the Club for at least 3 years. Should there be any moorings available after the completion of the first ballot then a second ballot may take place to offer moorings to members who have less than 3 years membership. Terms and conditions are published in the Club rules section of the web site.

Dinghy facilities: what (dinghy park, pontoon, Q pontoon etc), Ts&Cs, how to apply

Each year a form is distributed with members' subscription renewals. This form allows members to request dinghy storage. Dinghy storage is available on the Hammerhead pontoon, on Q Pontoon (part of MDL marina), within the club grounds in various locations and on dinghy racks.

Club Dinghies

You can hire a Pico through the office, they will accept the booking. You will be required to sign a disclaimer and state your level of experience. The Club does not operate a safety boat.

Equipment storage facilities: what, where, how to apply to use

There is an Outboard and Oar store at the rear of the Club which members can gain access to by using their club key. Storage space is tight and you should check with the office for guidance.

Launch service

The Club launch is run by our Bosun service on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays from 08.00 till 20.00 or dusk whichever is earlier. On Friday evening the launch runs from 16.00 till 20.00 or dusk, whichever is earlier, within British Summer Time.

The two launches Gordon Mathews and Knot-Me are both contactable using the same call sign or mobile.

The Bosuns can be contacted in their office at the rear of the Club or by using:
VHF Channel 77 - call sign "Spitfire"
Mobile phone using 07850 163800

Regalia: what's available, how to purchase

Club Regalia or club insignia is available to purchase from Gerry and Anne Cartright who work tirelessly to provide a service to club members. The club shop is normally available during lunch and the afternoon of the 1st Sunday of each month, or at other times via the office. There is a diverse catalogue of clothing consisting of everything from blazer buttons, ties and hats through to all weather clothing. Clothing can be embossed with Club insignia and your boat name.

The types of insignia vary depending on your membership status - Temporary members are able to purchase the colourful Flag logo consisting of the RAFYC Flags.

Full members are entitled to purchase clothing with a logo of Royal Air Force Eagle with proof of their membership.

Gerry and Anne can arrange for merchandise to be left at the office for you to pick up and they can also provide the Club defaced ensign and burgee to qualified members.

Club Ensign Warrant: how to obtain etc

As a privileged yacht club the RAFYC has been authorised to fly a defaced blue ensign for its own premises and for those members who comply with the terms of our Royal Warrant. The terms apply to full members who are boat owners and aboard their non-commercial vessel - there will also be a number of other rules that are mandated to define club members' responsibilities. You will find a copy of the flag requirements within the club rules on the web site.

Social calendar of events: at least a pointer to where this is published, how to enrol

Club members enjoy a wide variety of events within the calendar year. All Club events are organised by and for Club members and provide activities that suit a wide range of interests. Typically, the winter season is when most of the formal events are held while in the summer we tend to arrange more casual events to suit the season. You can find out when the events are on the calendar by checking out the website at www.rafyc.co.uk

eShots

eShots are our version of emails that go out to a distribution list managed by the Club. Members get added to this list when they join and have the option to opt out at any time by clicking the link on the eShot.

How to enroll for an event or rally

You can enrol in three ways: 1. through the web site, 2. through the club notice board in Riverside House, 3. calling the office. Enrolling on the web is easy; just take a look at the FAQs online

Dress Code

Dress code in the Club is normally clean, tidy, shore-going wear with tailored shorts being allowed May to 30th September and in the winter during the day only before 1900.There are rules stating no bare feet, oilskins, coats or sea boots in the bar, restaurant or lounge. (There are locking racks outside the changing rooms which should be used). At events, the dress code is normally signified by

(C) Casual,

(J&T) Jacket and Tie,

(F) Formal wear.

Normally events at the Club are 19:30 for 20:00 unless advertised differently.

Rally calendar

The rally calendar is published in the Club annual calendar and updated regularly by the office on the web.

Racing calendar

The club racing calendar is normally aligned with other combined Hamble Clubs with our biggest event normally being the Battle of Britain Regatta. You can find out more about racing by reading the racing pages on the web page or contacting the Rear Commodore Sailing.

Children / young member programmes

The Club cadets' programme is run in conjunction with the Hamble River Sailing Club. There are normally combined events running throughout the summer holiday; information can be seen from time to time on the Club notice board or on the web site.

How to offer help in running the Club: working parties, sub committees, individual initiatives etc.

You voluntary support is really appreciated; the best way is to send an email to the Rear Commodore House or Sailing via the office. Every so often calls for assistance will go out via eShots, all your support would be gratefully received.

Rally Protocol

Club Rallies are run a number of times throughout the year over 2 and 3 day weekends. Members arrange to meet up more formally on the Saturday night, but frequently meet informally on Friday nights and Sundays by local arrangement. The normal programme is that arrival on a Saturday is normally followed at 16:00 or 17:00 by a pontoon party - convened near the hosting boat - Watch out for RAFYC battle flags nearby!

Pontoon party etiquette is that you normally bring a bottle, some plastic glasses to drink from and some nibbles to put on the table.

Normally the Rally Master arranges for us to eat out on the Saturday evening at a hostelry or club. Dress code is normally advertised if we are going Posh or Not.

Payment for moorings and berths is normally sorted out individually on a boat by boat basis and dinner normally collected for at or after the event.

Occasionally arrangements are made for Safari suppers where we circulate among the various boats for drinks, starters, main courses, desserts etc. Again protocol is to bring glasses and a bottle. These social evenings are again normally coordinated by the Rally Master.

Communication is increasingly carried out by mobile phone and sometimes by arrangement a listening watch is sometimes kept on channel 77

Flag Etiquette

Abridged from the club rules:- Club burgees can be flown by full and temporary members. Full members may opt to fly Blue ensigns only in accordance with the warrant that must be carried on the boat. The ensign must also be flown at certain times of the day 0800 BST and lowered at Sunset in accordance with your warrant. Club burgees must be flown when the Ensign is flown and are normally flown from the starboard cross tree or the highest part of the mast that is reasonable.

Battle flags are Rectangular Air Force blue flags with a roundel at their centre and may be flown by members on rallies.