Club Night - Stars to Steer By- Tuesday 10th March 2026
“The sea doesn’t care what gender you are … but other people do. Or did”
An entertaining and inspiring cruise through the lives of women sailors”
A long-overdue celebration of women’s independence through sailing
The maritime world has long been dominated by men, with ships called “she” but actual women all but invisible. Stars To Steer By shines a long-overdue spotlight on the lives of some outstanding women, from the 19th century to the present day.
In Julia Jones’ usual tone, entertainingly informative, we are introduced to some fascinating stories. Spanning from the 19th century to today, Julia dives into the lives of an array of incredible and unconventional women: we meet single-handed sailors, wealthy explorers, long-suffering wives and penniless chancers with a thirst for adventure. Each had to face down barriers of official exclusion, family-imposed restriction, social disapproval and often a resulting lack of self-belief.
Today's sailing legends such as Tracy Edwards and Ellen MacArthur compete with men on equal terms, but they stand on the shoulders of many women before them, who had to challenge preconceptions, prejudice and even the law in their wish to sail.
It is my great honour to feature in this book together with such luminaries, and I am proud that it shines a light on the Little Ship Club, who admitted full lady members before we actually had full voting rights.
Duty Officer : tba
New Members Officer : tba