Can You Sail in December on the Thames? Yes, We Do.
When people hear that we sail dinghies on the Thames in December, the reaction is usually a mixture of disbelief and concern. Raised eyebrows. Sharp intakes of breath. And the inevitable question:
“Isn’t it too cold?”
The honest answer is this: December sailing on the Thames is not only possible—it can be some of the best sailing of the year, provided you approach it sensibly, with the right kit and the right mindset.
Here’s why winter sailing works, and what makes it different from summer sailing.
1. Winter Sailing Is About Preparation, Not Bravery
December sailing isn’t about toughness or proving a point. It’s about preparation.
Key differences from summer:
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You dress for immersion, not air temperature
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You plan more carefully
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You sail more deliberately
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You stop earlier if conditions change
With the right clothing and safety cover, winter sailing is calm, controlled and surprisingly comfortable.
2. The River Is Quieter (and More Beautiful)
One of the joys of December sailing is how peaceful the Thames becomes.
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Fewer boats on the water
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Almost no paddleboards
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Minimal motor traffic
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Wildlife everywhere
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Low winter sun lighting up the river
The river feels wider, calmer and more reflective. It’s a wonderful time to practise boat handling without distractions.
3. The Wind Is Often Better
Winter winds tend to be:
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More consistent
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Less thermally driven
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Less affected by mid-afternoon lulls
While gusts still come through the trees, December sailing often offers cleaner airflow than hot, unstable summer days.
4. Cold Water Demands Good Habits
The biggest difference in December isn’t the air—it’s the water.
Cold water means:
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You avoid unnecessary capsizes
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You recover promptly and calmly if one happens
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You sail conservatively near banks and moorings
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You value good safety boat cover
This actually improves sailing discipline. Everything becomes a little more thoughtful—and often a lot tidier.
5. Clothing Makes All the Difference
With modern kit, staying warm is straightforward.
Typical winter setup:
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Windproof spray top
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Neoprene boots
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Warm hat (you lose heat fast through your head)
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Gloves that still allow you to feel the ropes
Get this right and you’ll be surprised how warm you stay once you’re moving.
6. Shorter Sessions, Smarter Sailing
Winter sailing sessions are often shorter—and that’s no bad thing.
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You sail with focus
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You practise specific skills
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You come ashore before fatigue sets in
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You finish feeling refreshed rather than exhausted
An hour of good winter sailing can teach you more than an afternoon drifting in summer heat.
7. Safety Is Non-Negotiable
December sailing only happens when conditions allow.
That means:
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No sailing in strong stream or Red Board conditions
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Clear safety boat cover
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Conservative decisions
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Willingness to cancel if the river says “no”
Winter sailing works because we respect the river, not because we ignore it.
8. Why We Keep Sailing
So why do we do it?
Because winter sailing:
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Improves confidence
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Sharpens skills
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Builds good habits
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Keeps momentum going through the off-season
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Makes the first spring sail feel incredible
And because there’s something deeply satisfying about being on the water on a crisp December day, when the river is quiet and the light is golden.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can sail on the Thames in December—and many of us do. It’s not about being reckless or extreme. It’s about being prepared, sailing thoughtfully and enjoying a quieter, more reflective side of the river.
Wrap up properly, choose your day carefully, and December sailing can be one of the highlights of the year.
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