Who are the DSA?
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. It’s run entirely by volunteers and supported through charitable donations and sponsorship. The DSA is based in Torquay and affiliated to the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Sailability Group.
You don’t have to have any sailing experience to sail with the DSA. You can sit back and relax or join in with the crew and pull on a few ropes. You can even take the helm under the watchful eye of the skipper!
We can sail 7 days a week, 52 weeks of the year, depending on demand from our members and crew availability. Most commonly we go out on day sails, starting mid-morning and returning mid-afternoon or later depending on where we have been. Our busiest months are April through to October. During the longer summer days, we can also sail in the evenings and watch the sunset, which is very popular with members.
There is no doubt that all members have benefited in some way from their sailing experiences with the DSA. Our boats have been named DSA Freedom and DSA Free Spirit by our members because it’s that feeling of elation that brings so much relief and healing into their lives. It also helps them to focus on their abilities, rather than their disabilities, which is a positive step towards a healthy and active lifestyle.
You too, could potentially benefit from joining the DSA, so if you would like to find out more, please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07447 941724