Getting Ready for Sailing in Chilly Winds
End of Autumn, Beginning of Winter on the Thames
The trees are dropped their leaves, the sun is lower, the clocks have fallen back, and the wind has a definite bite. But we’re still sailing.
Just… a little more carefully layered.
As the Thames cools and the weather changes, sailing becomes less about sunhats and more about smart preparation. If you want to enjoy the river without shivering or swimming unexpectedly, here’s how we get ready for late-season sailing.
1. Dress Like an Onion
Layers are your best friend. Start with:
Don’t forget:
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Warm hat (you lose a lot of heat through your head)
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Neoprene gloves (cold fingers can’t tie knots)
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Decent sailing boots or wellies with thick socks
2. Buoyancy Aid Still Mandatory
Even more so. The water is now cold enough to cause cold shock. If you go in unexpectedly, your best chance is to be afloat and visible — fast.
3. Pre-Rig Everything Indoors (If You Can)
Untangling halyards with numb fingers is not fun. If you’re lucky enough to have space, prep as much as you can before getting down to the club.
4. Check Your Kit for Winter Wear
Cold sailing means:
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Spray jackets need to be in good condition
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Ropes should be flexible, not stiff and frozen
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Hulls need to be bailed before launching (leaves and rain collect fast)
5. Know When to Say No
Gusting to 30 knots in 3°C? That’s not character-building, it’s foolhardy.
Be brave — but be sensible. Cold injuries, capsizes, and long recoveries are harder now.
Final Word
Sailing in cold weather can be beautiful — quieter water, stunning low light, and a real sense of adventure.
Just don’t forget the hat, the flask of tea, and maybe a hot water bottle for afterwards.
📖 Read more autumn and winter sailing tips at:
https://pmrsailing.uk
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