Ballyholme Yacht Club

Dear Members,

The BYC Executive Committee warmly invites you to a member briefing on our redevelopment plans.

Join us in the Members' Lounge on Sunday 21 June at 17:00, where we will:

•⁠ ⁠Share the current status of the redevelopment;
•⁠ ⁠Outline the next steps ahead; and
•⁠ ⁠Invite your input on key elements of the plans.

Your voice matters in shaping the future of our club, and we look forward to seeing you there.

Sunday 21 June | 17:00 | Members' Lounge

Kind regards,
BYC Executive Committee

We can't wait!

Join us for Love Ballyholme By The Sea for a relaxed, feel good afternoon filled with music, food and fun for all ages.

📍 Ballyholme Yacht Club
🗓 Saturday 13 June
⏰ 2 to 5pm - Music & Bar til late
🎟️ Entry: Adults £2, Kids go free!

Here’s a little taste of what’s in store:
🎶 Live band plus entertainment from Ballyholme Primary School choirs and more
🐶 A brand new Dog Show
🍰 A Cake Baking Competition
🏴‍☠️ Pirate themed children’s activities
☕ Refreshments
🔥 BBQ

Whether you’re coming along with family, friends or just fancy soaking up the atmosphere by the sea, it’s set to be a lovely afternoon.

We’ll be sharing more details soon, including how to get involved in the dog show and cake baking competition… keep an eye out 👀

Ballyholme Yacht Club
Ballyholme Primary School Bangor

- A Stunning Friday Evening on the Water -

After some uncertainty over the weather forecast earlier on Friday, the clouds gave way to sunshine and warmth, delivering a gorgeous evening on the water and the cadets turned out in force to make the most of it!

Despite rumours of otters and possible dolphin sightings, it was the cadets themselves making the most noise out on the water. We were also delighted to welcome Coastguard Simon, who paid us a visit and helped everyone brush up on their VHF radio skills a valuable session all round.

Saturday saw our more experienced cadets back out on the water for some focused coaching, continuing to develop their skills in fine style.

A huge thank you to all our shore crew, rescue team and coaches who give their time so generously and of course to all the parents whose support continues to make these evenings such a success!

Good luck to all of the BYC sailors heading to the Topper Southern Championships and the RS Rooster Feva Nationals!

Not long to go!

Bangor by the Sea Love Ballyholme Ards and North Down Borough Council Visit Ards and North Down Northern Ireland Sports Forum RYA Northern Ireland Sport NI

Join us this Monday 4th May for Discover Sailing Day – a fun-filled day on the water for all ages and abilities! Whether you’re a complete beginner or just fancy trying something new, this is your chance to dive into sailing, paddleboarding, powerboating and more.

✨ What to expect:
⛵ Sailing taster sessions
🌊 Paddleboarding (including our giant SUP – perfect for families!)
🚤 Powerboating experiences
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly fun
🍔 Food, drinks & a great social atmosphere
🕙 Sessions run from 10am–4pm (1-hour slots)
⏱️ Please arrive 20 minutes early to get checked in and ready
🎟️ Tickets from just £5

Come along, try something new, and enjoy a brilliant day by the water with friends, family, and the local community.

Get your Tickets here!
https://ballyholme.com/events/byc-discover-sailing-day-2026/

Love Ballyholme RYA Northern Ireland Royal Yachting Association

BYC kicks off their Sea Swim season

by Diane Nelson

The inaugural sea swim for the 2026 season will take place at Ballyholme Yacht Club on Monday 4th May at 17:00. We are welcoming members and visitors to join us for a swim, followed by a celebratory lemonade in the bar.

Join us for at BYC for a swim and a chance to unwind with fellow swimmers, enjoy the beautiful coastal views, and connect with the vibrant BYC community. Sea swims sessions for BYC full members (Age 16+) are scheduled on Monday evenings during May, June and September. During July and August, sessions are scheduled on Thursday evenings for BYC full adult members and Visitors. In addition, three sessions will be scheduled for Cadets on a Saturday during June and July.

What To Expect:
Swim Course: The swim course varies from 200 to 400 metres, depending on the tide. Swim as far as you’re comfortable with—whether just a few metres from shore or multiple laps.

Safety Measures: A comprehensive risk assessment and safety procedures are in place. Prior to swimming, all participants will receive a safety briefing. Onshore: All swimmers must submit a swimming registration form before entering the water. Swimmers must wear a wristband, which will be provided upon registration. After swimming, return your wristband to an onshore team member. Hot showers, changing rooms, toilets, and the club house are available for your convenience.

In the Water: High-visibility swimming caps and tow floats are required. Safety support is provided by a RIB (rescue boat) manned by BYC rescue team members, with additional support from volunteers in kayaks and paddle boards.

How to register:
Please complete the Monday 4th May Sea Swim registration found in the BYC website: https://ballyholme.com/events/byc-open-water-swim-4th-may-2026/

All swimmers must complete a registration form before entering the water. This activity is for over 16s only. Spaces are limited, so early registration is strongly recommended.

We look forward to welcoming you for a fantastic evening in the water!

We’re hiring for the summer season! ☀️

Looking for an experienced Senior Instructor to join our team. If you’re passionate about teaching, confident leading sessions, and great at motivating others, we’d love to hear from you.

This is a fantastic opportunity to spend your summer doing what you love in a dynamic and supportive environment.

Interested or know someone who might be a great fit? Apply with the link here - https://www.cognitoforms.com/BallyholmeYachtClub/_2026BYCSeasonalSeniorInstructorApplication

Application deadline 3rd May 26

RYA Northern Ireland Northern Ireland Sports Forum Royal Yachting Association

Join us this Monday 4th May for Discover Sailing Day – a fun-filled day on the water for all ages and abilities! Whether you’re a complete beginner or just fancy trying something new, this is your chance to dive into sailing, paddleboarding, powerboating and more.

✨ What to expect:
⛵ Sailing taster sessions
🌊 Paddleboarding (including our giant SUP – perfect for families!)
🚤 Powerboating experiences
👨‍👩‍👧 Family-friendly fun
🍔 Food, drinks & a great social atmosphere
🕙 Sessions run from 10am–4pm (1-hour slots)
⏱️ Please arrive 20 minutes early to get checked in and ready
🎟️ Tickets from just £5

Come along, try something new, and enjoy a brilliant day by the water with friends, family, and the local community.

Get your Tickets here!
https://ballyholme.com/events/byc-discover-sailing-day-2026/

Love Ballyholme RYA Northern Ireland Royal Yachting Association

Ballyholme Yacht Club welcomes Bangor Mayor Gillian McCollum to the Irish Sailing Youth National Championships 2026!