Glenans Ireland refers to the Irish branch of the French sailing school Les Glénans. Operating under the name Glenans Irish Sailing School (GISS), it provides sailing instruction and related maritime activities in the Republic of Ireland.
Organisation and affiliation
- GISS is affiliated with Les Glénans, which was founded in 1947 in France and is recognized for its sail‑training programs.
- The Irish branch functions as a non‑profit organization and is a member of the Irish Sailing Association, the national governing body for sailing in Ireland.
Location
- The school is based at Rosslare Harbour in County Wexford, a coastal port on the southeast coast of Ireland.
Training programmes
- GISS offers a range of courses for different skill levels, including:
- Introductory and beginner courses (e.g., Level 1 – basic dinghy handling).
- Intermediate and advanced courses (e.g., Level 2 and Level 3 – coastal navigation and offshore sailing).
- Youth programmes, such as Optimist and junior sailing camps.
- Specialized training for crew, skipper, and coastal cruising.
Fleet and facilities
- The school operates a fleet of small dinghies (including Optimist, Laser, and RS Feva) as well as larger keelboats for offshore training.
- Facilities at Rosslare Harbour include classroom spaces, boat storage, and a launch area for on‑water activities.
Community and activities
- In addition to formal courses, Glenans Ireland organizes sailing trips, regattas, and social events for members and alumni.
- The organization emphasizes safety, environmental stewardship, and the promotion of sailing as an inclusive sport.
Historical note
- The Irish branch was established in the early 2000s to extend the Les Glénans educational model to sailors in Ireland, complementing existing domestic sailing schools.
For further information, Glenans Irish Sailing School maintains a website and provides contact details for prospective students and partners.
