Where is the best place to sail in Britain?
It’s a deceptively simple question — and one that sparks passionate debate among the podcast panellists who have extensive knowledge of our coastlines, lochs and inland waterways. This episode brings together sailors and boating enthusiasts whose lives and sailing styles couldn’t be more different, yet all share a deep connection to the waters of the British Isles.
Joining host Dee Caffari are:
- Maggie Adamson – double-handed offshore racer from Shetland, equally at home battling tides in the Solent or shelter-hunting in the Northern Isles.
- Roger Barnes – dinghy cruising doyen, minimalist sailor and champion of small boat adventures
- Rachel Sprot – based in Plymouth and editor of the Shell Channel Pilot, deeply immersed in the hidden inlets, rivers and anchorages of the West Country
- Rory McKinna – Scottish Para sailor whose fiercest training ground is a small, shifting loch where every tack counts
- Elizabeth Earle – Author, artist and liveaboard narrowboater fascinated by historic canal network, finding creativity in the quiet waterways
From the tidal drama of the Bristol Channel to the history-soaked cuttings of the Midlands canal network, this episode explores some of the rich tapestry of British boating life. It’s not a search for a single ‘best’ location — it’s a celebration of why sailing close to home offers challenge, beauty, heritage and unexpected adventure in equal measure.
The RYA 150 Podcast, hosted by record-breaking British yachtswoman Dee Caffari, marks 150 years of sailing heritage and future inspiration. You can listen to a new episode every week via your favourite podcast platform – including Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Amazon Music – or online at rya.org.uk/150-podcast
