RYA Refer a Friend scheme proving popular

RYA stand at the PSP Southampton Boat Show © Paul Wyeth / RYA

Since its launch in June 2014 the RYA Refer a Friend scheme has proved popular, with 130 RYA members taking advantage of the scheme and between them introducing 51 new members to the association.

"We are delighted with how well the scheme has been received so far by our members and the feedback we have received; from the ease of taking part to the benefits being enjoyed by our new members, has been fantastic. Our referring members have also been delighted with their thank you gifts and we have had a number of members introduce multiple friends so they can claim both gifts", explained RYA Membership Development Manager, Conor Swift.

The RYA Refer a Friend scheme was introduced in the hope of introducing even more boaters to the wide ranging benefits RYA offers, from unlimited access to specialist and technical advice, news and bespoke support from our experts to countless money saving offers and discounts.

"There are no better advocates for the benefits of RYA membership than our existing members, and the scheme was our way of offering a special thank you to those members who went the extra mile in promoting the benefits of membership", added Conor.

The scheme offers new members 25% discount on the price of their chosen membership type; and once the friend or family member has signed up the referring member will receive a special thank gift of either an exclusive RYA branded umbrella or five litre RYA branded dry bag from Overboard.

Paul Phillips from Stourbridge, West Midlands has been both a referee and a refer and commented: "My friend put me forward as his Refer a Friend contact, so that not only could I gain my short range certificate assessors qualification but also enjoy a 25% discount on the joining fee, which was an added bonus.

"On joining I found the newsletter emails interesting and informative and I decided I would refer one of my friends. The gift I received for referring my friend (once they has signed up) was great quality and really useful. Having been on both sides as a referee and referrer; I would say that Refer a Friend is a great scheme and the benefits are great for both parties involved."

As well as a whole host of benefits, rewards, discounts and offers, every member that joins the RYA adds their voice to the existing 103,000 members in support of the work of the RYA does ensuring that legislators, regulators and other authorities understand and take account of recreational boating activity.

"The more members we have, the louder our voice to act on members behalf to protect their freedom to use the water responsibly, with the minimum of restrictions", Conor concluded.

Taking part in the new Refer a Friend scheme is really simple.

• Complete the referral form including the name and email address of your friend together with a reason why they should join the RYA.
• Select your referral gift.
• We'll invite your friend to join the RYA by email with a 25% discount.
• If your friend becomes a member, you receive your selected referral gift in the post, it's that easy

Love Boating? Then why not join the association that promotes and protects, safe, successful and rewarding British boating. Join today and support the RYA in protecting your boating rights and freedoms. Take advantage of free advice and support on all aspects of your boating, as well as enjoying a range of fantastic personal member offers. Find out more by calling 0844 556 9556, email or visit www.rya.org.uk