MDL Ocean Village celebrates South Coast Blind Week

This weekend, staff at MDL’s Ocean Village Marina in Southampton will be welcoming 125 sailors into the marina for South Coast Blind Week 2015, a major UK event offering sailing opportunities for people with visual impairments, which takes place between 27^th June to 4^th July.

Every second year, the marina provides participating yachts with berths, free of charge in support of the week. The event gives a crew of 50 people with visual impairments the opportunity to enjoy a cruise along the South Coast, with the help of 50 sighted crew and 25 skippers. Participants range from complete novices who are sailing for the first time to world champions in disability sports. 

South Coast Blind Week allows people with visual impairments to quickly learn safety measures, boat handling and rope work, helping to develop risk awareness and confidence moving around a yacht at sea. Participants also learn how to use special audio compasses to help them steer their course.

Will Bridge, event organiser commented: “To make Blind Week a success, we depend upon safe, welcoming, and convenient marinas. MDL’s Ocean Village Marina and all the staff generously provide us with the facilities we need in style. As well as allowing participants to learn some really valuable skills, the week offers fantastic social opportunities when the boats anchor up together for the night. It looks to be a great week.” 

Debbie Burns, manager at MDL’s Ocean Village Marina said: “We are very excited to be hosting the yachts for South Coast Blind Week and really look forward to meeting the participants. It is always a real honour to be involved.” 

For more information, visit MDL Marinas.