The RYACW BIG Weekend is back!! Its return on the 11th-12th October 2025 at Plas Menai promises to deliver another fun filled packed programme. The weekend will bring people together from across sailing and boating to enjoy a host of different activities. From novice to professional, there's something to help you stretch or refresh your skills, and perhaps even tempt you to pursue a qualification?
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The BIG Weekend is part of the RYA Connected Events so there are some FREE sessions including:
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Create or Develop Your Safety Management Systems
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Learning the Lessons
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ClubZone
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RYA Network
Save The Date! 10th-11th October 2026
How the weekend works...
Who can attend?
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Anyone aged 15 and above can attend the BIG Weekend- but please check age and pre-requisites for each session.
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Under 15s can attend the Youth Multi Activity Sessions for £25 per day.
What do i do?​
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Take a look at the Agenda and Session Info below
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Book your sessions- either select an all day activity, or one morning and one afternoon activity each day. Weekend tickets start at £17.
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Add your add ons- lunch and dinner is provided at an extra cost.
Where can I stay?
Accommodation is available on site at Plas Menai, please call them on 0300 300 3112 to make a booking at the discounted price for the BIG Weekend.
Plas Menai accommodation options:
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Bed & Breakfast in Centre Single Occupancy/ Sharing Twin Room.
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Self-Catering on site houses (sleeps up to 6).
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Campervans non-electric hook up only to park in the general car park and make use of the facilities @£11pppn.​
What do I need to bring?
Plas Menai has plenty of kit that you can borrow, but, if you own any it might be a good idea to bring:
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A wetsuit
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Wetsuit boots
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Footwear suitable for cruising (non marking soles)
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Waterproof/ windproof clothing
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Buoyancy aid
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Towel
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Hat
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Sunglasses
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Sun cream
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Water bottle
2025 Big Weekend blog
Some Extra Info
Tea & coffee will be available throughout both days
Lunch is available to purchase at the time of booking- you will need to bring a water bottle with you. If you do not want to purchase a packed lunch, please make sure you bring your own.
A Saturday evening meal is available to purchase when booking- please make sure you fill in the order form attached to the confirmation email.
Getting There
Centre Address:
Plas Menai, National Outdoor Centre, Caernarfon, LL55 1UE
​Nearest train station is Bangor
RYA Cymru Wales Green Scheme
Our RYA Green Scheme remains in place:
The RYA recognises that the protection of the environment is an integral part of our business. This Green Scheme is designed to encourage delegates attending this event to share rides or take public transport, therefore reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-responsibility. This is open to Welsh residents only.
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Those travelling by public transport to claim up to 50% of their travel costs to the event with a maximum claim of £75. To qualify you must register attendance at the event, present evidence of travel (receipt) and complete a claim form.
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Those offering lifts- bringing two or more people in your car (inc Driver), mileage up to a maximum of a round trip of 325 miles will be paid at a rate of £0.45p per mile! You and your passengers must register attendance at the event. The claimant must show proof of address and complete a claim form.
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