Nominations now open for the 2026 RYA Awards
by RYA Press Office 2 Jun 07:00 UTC
Nominations now open for the RYA Awards © RYA
The instructor who sparks confidence in new sailors. The person who quietly keeps things running behind the scenes. The young volunteer who turns up with a smile, rain or shine. Or the club that goes the extra mile to make everyone feel supported and welcome.
Now's your chance to say thank you and celebrate a special someone or organisation that's making a difference to the sport and activities we love.
Nominations are officially open for the RYA Awards 2026. Whether you're recognising a devoted volunteer, a stand-out coach, or an organisation doing brilliant things in their community, your nomination can help shine a spotlight on their contributions.
It might even inspire someone else to share their own time, expertise and energy to support sailing and boating activities at your organisation.
"The RYA Awards are all about celebrating the people and organisations who make a real difference on and off the water," said Cat Ferguson, RYA Club & Volunteer Support Officer.
"It's one of the most uplifting parts of what we do — hearing stories of passion, kindness, and commitment from every corner of the sailing and boating community, and the impactful projects and initiatives that help our sport thrive."
Find out how you can say thank you through the RYA Awards.
Impact Awards (England)
Presented throughout the year, the Impact Awards (England) honour individuals and organisations who go above and beyond to make boating more successful, inclusive, sustainable and enjoyable.
Whether it's a simple and heartfelt thank you for someone's quiet dedication or in recognition of a broader impact, nominations are welcome at any time — there's no deadline.
If your nominee is an individual, they'll also be automatically considered for the National Individual Awards, to be presented at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show in February 2026. Impact Award nominations received for individuals by 1 October 2025 will be reviewed for this national recognition.
For nominees in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland please nominate through your RYA Home Country's Awards programmes.
Affiliate Awards
RYA Affiliated clubs, classes and organisations across the UK can also apply for the RYA Affiliate Awards, supported by Gallagher, also presented at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show.
With five categories covering everything from sustainability and inclusion to event delivery and youth engagement, the Affiliate Awards showcase the many ways our clubs and communities bring boating to life.
Applications for 2026 are open now, with a closing date of 1 October 2025.
Nominate today
If you know a person or an organisation that's helped make sailing and boating better, brighter or more inclusive, nominate them for an RYA Award today.
Visit the Awards webpage for full guidance notes, category details and nomination forms for both the Impact Awards and Affiliate Awards.