Wetwheels Foundation has reported its highest annual activity to date for the period 1 October 2024 to 30 September 2025, delivering accessible powerboating experiences across the UK.
During the year, the Wetwheels fleet completed 1,404 inclusive trips. In total, more than 11,000 disabled participants and family members took part. Of these, 5,931 people – representing 54 per cent – experienced time on the water for the first time. The charity recorded 3,920 ambulant disabled participants and 1,826 wheelchair users.
“Every statistic represents a moment of freedom, confidence and connection on the water,” says Trevor Phillips, chair of the Wetwheels Foundation. “We’re not just offering boat trips – we’re opening up the sea to everyone, regardless of ability.”
Operations were supported by volunteers and trustees, who contributed more than 2,500 hours over the year. Wetwheels’ expansion activity was recognised by HRH The Princess Royal during a visit to Devon in October.
The organisation is planning further growth, with proposals to establish two additional regional hubs – in Wales and Northern Ireland. The foundation says these hubs will extend access to communities not currently served by the existing fleet.
Wetwheels has launched a fundraising appeal to support the introduction of the new boats and associated infrastructure. Further details are available via its website.
Founded by Geoff Holt, Wetwheels is a UK charity providing accessible powerboating experiences for disabled people of all ages and abilities. It operates a fleet of wheelchair-accessible boats nationwide.
In 2024, Holt became the first quadriplegic sailor to complete a circumnavigation of the UK. The journey took 26 days and covered some 1,880 nautical miles.
The post Wetwheels participation tops 11,000 in record year appeared first on Marine Industry News.