Q1.

Where is Drum Berthed?

Overnight, Drum is moored in the Rhu Narrows, we come alongside at Rhu Marina
(3 miles north of Helensburgh) for picking up / dropping off.

Q2.

How many people does Drum sail with?

On Drum we sail with a crew of 3 or 4 staff, and have a limit of 12 guests aboard at any time.

Q3.

My group wants to bring more guests, is this possible?

We can tie in with various RIB operators, to provide for up to 36 additional guests, price by arrangement.

Q4.

What time should I arrive?

Unless by prior arrangement, guests should aim to arrive by 9.30am, to maximise time spent sailing. If you arrive early, 9.00am on, feel free to come down to the boat to introduce yourself and have a cup of coffee in comfort. If you are running late, try to let us know, so we can postpone leaving.

Q5.

What should I bring with me?

On Drum we provide hi tech waterproofs, life jackets and safety harnesses. The weather can change very quickly on the West Coast, so we recommend you bring warm layered clothing, thermal hats and gloves, as well as shorts, sunglasses and a sun hat.

It is very important you bring suitable shoes. Light soled trainers or deck shoes are necessary for movement around a wet deck. Dark soled trainers permanently damage the deck. Fashion shoes and leather soled shoes will not be allowed, as they provide unpredictable levels of grip. If the weather on your chosen day looks a little damp, please bring a change of socks and shoes for the trip home.

Q6.

Where will we sail to?

We have numerous different options on where we can venture for the day, we prefer to leave our options open until we see how the weather is developing for the day, to provide the perfect balance of exhilaration and relaxation for the group. By prior arrangement with the group leader, we can vary the route on request, but it must be noted that influences of weather, tide and time may make some requests impossible.

Q7.

What time will we get back?

Arrival time back at Rhu Marina is largely dependant on lunch destination and wind on the way home. We usually arrive back between 5.00pm and 6.00pm. If any guests need to be back for a certain time for flights / babysitter etc. then please let us know early on, on the day of the charter.

Q8.

Can I take my children?

We can take guests of any age, but we need two weeks prior notice of any children under 12, as we need to make special arrangements for life jackets. Children are solely the responsibility of the parent/guardian, and should be prevented from moving around the decks unattended at any time.

Q9.

I am not as young / fit as I used to be. Can I still come?

It is possible to opt out of some of the more strenuous activities involved on sailing a race boat, However, we can cater for all age groups. We ask you to let the skipper know if you have asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, severe allergic reactions or heart problems. It should be noted that you could be 2 hours away from the nearest hospital.

Q10.

I have restricted mobility. Can I still come?

It should be noted that we have no wheelchair access to Drum. We can usually assist a small number of restricted mobility guests on a normal charter day. Please let us know of any special requirements at the booking stage.

Q11.

Is alcohol allowed on board?

Part of the standard charter package is a restricted free bar involving wine and beer. We ask that guests limit there alcohol intake to a safe level, remembering that as a sailing boat Drum moves about and leans over. The crew reserves the right to close the bar if guests appear to be getting worse for wear. The skippers decision is final on all matters.

No alcohol may be brought on board by guests.

Q12.

I suffer from seasickness. Will it be rough?

The Clyde Estuary is a very sheltered piece of water, and the sea is usually flat even in quite windy conditions. We have guests being sick only very rarely. If you are worried, some helpful tips are: Try not to have any heavy or fatty foods for 18 hours before departure, take medication (eg. Stugeron) two hours before sailing, and avoid alcohol.

Q13.

I am sailing Drum on an adventure package trip, what should I bring?

Please pack lightly, as space is limited. Soft bags are better than suitcases, as they are easier to stow. If you are sleeping on board bring a sleeping bag and pillow. Also, a small torch is useful and if you play a musical instrument, bring it along!

It is very important you bring suitable shoes. Light soled trainers or deck shoes are necessary for movement around a wet deck. Dark soled trainers permanently damage the deck. Fashion shoes and leather soled shoes will not be allowed, as they provide unpredictable levels of grip. If you have nothing suitable, we can sell you a pair of good value deck shoes on the day. If the weather on your chosen day looks a little damp, please bring a change of socks and shoes for the trip home.