We have been improving the confidence, problem-solving and social skills of people with autism whilst out on the water since 2019 as a charity and before that raising awareness of the spectrum and the sport since 2016. We are proud to be the only known charity in the UK that caters specifically for people with autism to access the water. Our mission is to break down the financial barriers that sailing and motorboating can sometimes bring to many families with autism and simply welcome them on board for free to experience a potentially life-changing experience.
Aside from wanting to provide our activities free of charge, we also have a mission to enhance confidence, problem-solving and social skills to the lives of people with autism through the experience of being out on the water.
"It is fantastic news that Autism on the Water has been appointed as an official charity of Cowes Week for 2025! It is a privilege to be supported by such an iconic British sailing event as Cowes Week. This is a great opportunity for the sailing community and wider public to see and learn about what we do whilst being part of the biggest town regatta in the world."
."Alongside competing at the regatta this year, we will also be running many free sailing and motorboating trips and we're planning some surprises too! AOTW are avid fans of Cowes Week, both on and off the water, and we're looking forward to a week of exciting racing and shoreside fundraising activities."
Murray MacDonald,
Director of Autism on the Water
When a boat heels over in strong winds, your confidence grows the more you experience a heel, when a sail is flapping and needs to be sheeted in, your problem-solving enhances, when you need crew members to help hoist the sails, you enhance your social skills by working together as a team.
We also give many opportunities for people young and old, experienced or inexperienced the chance to volunteer with us to help create more experiences within their lives, add more for their CV and make new friends whilst also giving something back to their community.
If you would like to sponsor us, make a donation or enquire about volunteering with us, please visit our website or check out our Facebook page.