Scows have sailed on the Lymington River for over a hundred years! The first Scows were built in early 1900's and quickly proved successful as both a sailing and rowing dinghy. It was so ideally suited as a tender to larger yachts that many builders along the East and South Coast built Scows. It was also one of the first dinghies to change successfully from clinker to construction in glass fibre, with a smooth skin inside, and it is amazing just how many of these and their older clinker counterparts are still sailing today.
The virtues of the Scow remain the same today - you can sail, row, race, potter or even fit it with an outboard. The current version is now the Lymington River Scow built locally in GRP by John Claridge Boatbuilders. A Scow will last for years and will become a family favourite over many generations.
Over 200 of our members participate in our Lymington River Scow fleet, in more than 100 boats. This includes non-owners who join in our events and give the sailors great support at sea and onshore throughout the year. Any club member may join the Scow fleet and take part in activities. Members who don’t yet own a Scow may hire one of the two Scows owned by the Club, Valmai II and Praline.
The Scow Fleet organises events throughout the year, designed to provide something for every sailor to enjoy. A regular and active programme is organised including class racing and weekly potters (cruising in company) during the sailing season and talks, walks and suppers in the winter.
In addition to our club Scow Fleet, the Lymington River Scow Class Association organises events during the season.
Scow Potters take place on Thursdays from April until the end of October. A convivial morning sail accompanied by support boats. In 2021 the Scow Potters start on Thursday 15th April and end on Thursday 28th October. Click here for Scow potters launch times.
Click here to download a printable summary of key Scow events in the 2021 calendar
The club organises race training and coaching for Scow sailors during the season. For more information speak to the Scow Fleet Captain.
Reserve a table in advance to avoid disappointment.
Join our weekly racing with separate start for Scows!
We welcome new members throughout the year!