Medway Yacht Club is located at Lower Upnor on the northern bank of the tidal River Medway, just downriver from Chatham Dockyard.
Situated 35 miles from Central London, it operates in a region of reaches and bends that provide protection in all but the most challenging weather. The traditional clubhouse sits in an elevated position, offering south-facing panoramic views of the river. It is a major hub for racing and cruising, providing access to the Thames Estuary. For wingers, it offers a sheltered environment perfect for high-performance river sessions in a strategic gateway location.
SW, S, SE, W (South-facing views and prevailing wind alignment)
15-25 knots is the sweet spot for most; 4-5m wings in lighter air.
Best at High Tide (+/- 2 hrs) for optimal depth and to avoid the stickier mud near the shore.
14 Day - Tide Calendar for Medway Yacht Club →River chop and occasional boat wake.
Overall
Great for river exploration.
Vibe & Crowds
Welcoming and active. A mix of traditional yachting and modern dinghy/wind-sport interests. Moderate. Can be busy with yacht moorings and racing fleets at weekends.
Suitable For
The protective reaches are great for learning, but currents require awareness.
Negatives & Hazards
Moored vessels in the reaches; heavy commercial shipping lanes nearby; strong tidal flow on the ebb; submerged mudflats.
Medway Yacht Club
Open in Google MapsVia membership or guest fees. Clubhouse features a restaurant, bar, and veranda. Ample parking.
Concrete slipways and silty river bed.
Spring and Autumn; summer sea breezes can funnel up the Medway.
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Wind and weather forecasts for Medway Yacht Club are provided to help you plan your sessions. Conditions at this coastal location can change quickly, so always check the actual conditions when you arrive and trust your judgment. These forecasts are for recreational planning—always prioritize safety and verify conditions yourself before heading out. Tidal predictions for Medway Yacht Club are based on the nearest primary station at GRAVESEND (11.74km away). Local conditions can vary from these predictions due to coastal topography and weather effects. Always verify tidal conditions on arrival—these predictions are for planning purposes only, not for navigational use or critical safety decisions.