Helensburgh has strong connections with the Clyde and the sea beyond. As such there are excellent opportunities for sailing and other water sports and water-based activities.

Helensburgh Sailing Club is a Royal Yachting Association recognized teaching establishment offering sailors from beginner to expert the opportunity to sail in a beautiful part of Scotland in the safe yet exciting inshore waters of the upper Firth of Clyde.

For those intending bringing their own boats, Rhu Marina is a short walk westwards along the shore.

For something less active, there is the PS Waverley, the last sea going paddle steamer in the world. It sails from Helensburgh Pier on a regular basis to destinations such as Dunoon, Tighnabruaich and Rothesay. Or can be joined at Glasgow for additional destinations and excursions to the islands.

The history of the Clyde and it’s links with the sea can be explored at the Scottish Maritime Museum with its sites at Dumbarton and Braehead in Glasgow.