Wirral Watersports.
West Kirby Marine Lake
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Your child’s first time on the water: a parent’s guide

The marine lake is one of the gentlest places for a child to try watersports. Here’s what to expect and what to pack.

What age can they start?

Most of our junior courses and holiday camps start from around age 8. The RYA Youth Sailing Scheme usually starts around the same age, and RYA Level 1 Start Powerboating is open from 8.

Why the lake

It’s enclosed by a sea wall and shallow, with no tide, swell or boat traffic. Every session is run by qualified instructors, on the water with the children.

What to pack

  • Swimwear and a towel
  • Shoes that can get wet
  • A warm layer for afterwards
  • A packed lunch for camp days
  • A water bottle

Wetsuits, buoyancy aids, boats and boards are all included.

Certificates

RYA youth courses finish with an RYA certificate and a logbook entry your child can take to any RYA centre.

See kids and families for holiday camps, youth courses, school groups and birthday parties.

More from the blog

Be first on the water.

Courses, sessions and memberships go on sale before we open in spring 2027. Sign up and we’ll tell you first.