WELCOME FROM THE COMMODORE

It is a real pleasure to welcome you to the Clyde Cruising Club.

Whether you are a long-standing member, have recently joined, or are simply looking for ways to get afloat, the CCC offers a broad range of sailing and activity. From dinghy sailing and training at Bardowie, to keelboat racing, cruising, musters, Scottish Series, our Sailing Directions and social programme, there is something for sailors of all ages, interests and levels of experience.

Over the past year we have been working to bring those different parts of the CCC closer together and make better use of the tremendous knowledge, competence and community that exists across the Club.

We are making progress. Participation in training has grown, membership has increased, our keelboat and cruising programme continues to develop, and events including Scottish Series, the Summer Cruise and Closing Muster have been strongly supported. We have also worked more closely with other Clyde clubs, recognising that collaboration can improve both events and opportunities for sailors across the wider sailing community.

Communication has been another important focus. Our newsletters, WhatsApp Community and social-media activity are helping members see what is happening, find opportunities and get involved earlier. Work is also continuing to simplify our website, membership systems and administration.

At Bardowie, plans for redevelopment are progressing, with the CCC, the Seamanship & Pilotage Trust and the wider project team working towards improved facilities for sailing, training and learning.

There is still plenty to do. We need to keep the CCC relevant to today's sailors and ensure our Club is welcoming, approachable and worth being part of. That means making it easier to join in, continuing to improve our events and ensuring members can see real value in belonging.

We also want to create better pathways for younger sailors — not only to sail, but to develop as coaches, volunteers, organisers and, in time, future leaders of the CCC.

Underlying all of this is a simple ambition: one Club, more people taking part, stronger foundations, better events and more opportunities to get involved — helping more folk get afloat.

The CCC has a proud history, but its future depends on continuing to evolve. We want to retain the traditions, knowledge and seamanship that make it special while remaining open to new ideas, new people and new ways of doing things.

If you are looking for opportunities to race, cruise, learn, volunteer or simply meet others who enjoy being on the water, please get in touch.

Lizzie and I are often afloat on Tangaroa, in the Clyde or further afield, so please come and say hello.

Des Balmforth | commodore@clyde.org

October 2026

Last updated 18:36 on 30 October 2026