Sailing and Rain: Is It Really That Wet?

Sailing and Rain: Is It Really That Wet?

Many people assume that sailing in the UK means spending most of your time wet and cold. If you work indoors, it’s easy to believe the weather is worse than it actually is. When stepping outside for the school run or lunch break and seeing rain makes it feel like it’s always raining. The reality is different.

How Often Does It Rain in the UK?

The UK experiences an average of 45 inches (1,163mm) of rain annually, spread over approximately 159 days, average on rainy days is ⅓ of an inch (7.3mm). That’s not a lot, and it doesn’t mean non-stop downpours. Rain showers often last less than an hour, with dry spells in between. On any given day, even if rain is forecast, it doesn’t mean you’ll be sailing in constant wet weather. 

East is Worst

From my long experience of sailing in the UK I have found that there is a bigger chance of a prolonged rain shower if it sets in from the east. This is because the shower heads west and then gets pushed back by the prevailing westerly weather and so you get the same rain shower coming back at you. It is a very infrequent experience but just slightly annoying!

What’s It Like Sailing in the Rain?

Sailing in light rain is very different from walking through a city or standing still in bad weather. Out at sea, you’re moving, trimming sails, steering, and working with the wind. 

Please note, the atmosphere at sea is likely to be more humid than on land and the wind may not be the natural drier you are used to ashore. Staying dry is not just about rain, spray from waves and wind-driven sea water can also leave you damp or soaked, particularly in rougher conditions or when sailing on smaller boats. Our skippers take this into account when planning a day’s sailing and will devise a plan to keep you comfortable to the best of their ability. 

You Don’t Need Expensive Waterproofs for Sailing?

A common misconception is that sailing requires high-end, costly foul-weather gear. In reality, for short sailing trips or day sails, a standard waterproof jacket and trousers, the kind you’d wear for a hike are often sufficient. Layering properly and wearing warm clothing underneath makes a big difference. You don’t need to invest in expensive gear to get started, but understanding how to stay dry and warm will make your experience far more comfortable.

When Are the Driest Months for Sailing in the UK?

If you’re concerned about avoiding rain, timing your trip can make a difference. May and June are typically the driest months in the UK, offering longer daylight hours and more settled weather. Planning a sailing trip in these months increases your chances of staying dry. Whatever the season, sea spray can still be a factor, especially on windier days.

Final Thoughts

Yes, sailing is an outdoor activity, and sometimes it rains, but the idea that you’ll be soaked for hours is a myth. Most rain showers are short-lived, and with the right clothing, they’re barely an issue. Staying dry is as much about managing sea spray and damp conditions as it is about avoiding rain. If you’ve been hesitating to try sailing because of the weather, don’t let the fear of getting wet stop you—it’s rarely as bad as you think, and the right gear makes all the difference.

Remember, every day’s sailing is planned with care, adjusting to the conditions and aimed to give you the best possible sailing experience.

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