Abstract
There are currently over 10 million disabled people in the UK, of which over 35,000 have learnt to sail through RYA
Sailability schemes. Sailing can potentially have positive health and psychological benefits for disabled sailors, as well
as encouraging social inclusion. However, there are still barriers to the full inclusion of disabled people in sailing due to
the design of the boats; this paper explores some of those barriers. The research has involved benchmarking of existing
boats, focus groups, observation and a questionnaire. The findings have led to design requirements; and the paper
demonstrates how the user research can be applied within the context of a sailing boat for a range of user capabilities.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | RINA, Royal Institution of Naval Architects - Marine Design, Papers |
Publisher | Royal Institution of Naval Architects |
Pages | 235-244 |
ISBN (Print) | 978-190902429-8 |
Publication status | Published - 2014 |