CA reflects on a year of change and development at 2026 AGM

The Cruising Association held its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 11 November 2026 at CA House in Limehouse, London, with members attending both in person and online.

Members were welcomed by Robin Baron, CA President and retiring Chair of Council, Nick Nottingham, alongside fellow Council members.

The AGM provided an opportunity to reflect on a year of change, progress and new initiatives, as outlined in the CA's 2025–2026 Annual Report.

Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and challenges facing membership organisations, the report highlighted the CA's renewed focus on attracting and retaining members, strengthening engagement and enhancing the services and resources available to cruising sailors and motorboaters.

Key developments included new membership initiatives, such as Young Cruiser membership for under-35s, the establishment of a Member Engagement Group and an expanded programme of online and hybrid lectures, making CA events more accessible to members wherever they are.

Significant progress was also reported in the development of the CA's digital services, with including an upgraded website and an enhanced version of CAptain's Mate, alongside continued development of the Cruising Almanac.

The report also highlighted the CA's ongoing work representing cruising sailors on regulatory, technical and safety matters, including the Lobster Pot Campaign, guidance on lithium battery installation and monitoring orca interactions.

Looking ahead, the CA's priorities include growing membership, strengthening its cruising community and continuing to develop its role as a trusted source of information, advice and support for cruising sailors.

Recognition and thanks were extended to the many volunteers whose dedication, knowledge and expertise underpin the CA's activities and support its extensive cruising network.

The AGM also included the election of Officers and Council members, with Robin Baron standing for a third term as President.

The elected CA Officers and Council members are:

• President: Robin Baron
• Chair of Council: Ann Crome
• Vice-President: John Burbeck
• Vice-President: Bob Slay
• Council: Malcolm Davidson
• Council: Clare Harland
• Council: Camilla Herrmann
• Council: Michael Lithgow
• Council: Trevor Page
• Council: James Parnell
• Council: David Rush
• Council: Samantha Steele
• Honorary Treasurer: Nick Clayton
• Honorary Solicitor: Jennifer Bowes

Back row l-r: Trevor Page, Bob Slay, Michael Lithgow
Middle row l-r: Clare Harland, John Burbeck
Front row l-r: Robin Baron, Ann Crome, David Rush
Not pictured: Camilla Herrmann and Samantha Steele

CA members can view the AGM papers by logging into your account.