You do not have to join a club to enjoy boating, but there are numerous advantages if you do.
Firstly, you are meeting people who share a common interest in model boating in an assortment of types and sizes.
Secondly, it allows access to a wealth of hands on experience and knowledge which sometimes is necessary in order to enjoy the hobby to the full. There is usually someone to assist if you have a problem.
Thirdly whether you like sailing for relaxation, for competition or for exhibiting, the club provides opportunities for all.
Fourthly, via SWAMBC it provides essential insurance to insure against third party risks whilst sailing.
Finally its good FUN.
Do I have to build a boat myself?
No. You do not have to be a model boat builder to be a member.
Some members buy ready to sail (RTS) boats or almost ready to sail (ARS). Kits are also now quite popular where everything is provided to build the model.
There are of course more experienced modelers who 'scratch build' and try and make everything themselves.
Many members often have boats for sale to anyone, wanting to try out the hobby.
Who are SWAMBC?
“SWAMBC" exists to promote the hobby of Model Boating across the South West of England, and to look after the interests of affiliated clubs and their members.
Clevedon & District Model Boat Club are pleased to be affiliated to them.
How are most boats controlled?
Most model boats are radio controlled in as much as a Receiver (RX) is located inside the boat, and a Transmitter (TX) held by its owner. An important aspect of the control is that a matching pair of frequency crystals are required to operate.
The club only uses the Nationally recognized frequencies of 27MHz and 40MHz.
It is important when sailing a boat that you check with others who are sailing, to ensure that you are on different crystals, otherwise you will have problems with the control of the boats. There could be dire consequences if two people are using the same frequency.
More and more people are now switching to the 2.4Ghz controls as these do away with the need to use different crystals, and the likelihood of clashing frequency with someone else is very remote.