WINNER ANNOUNCED
Haven Knox-Johnston
Volunteer of the Year 2025

In association with the Royal Naval Sailing Association

Two volunteers in shorts and polos stand by a Royal Navy flag, holding a clipboard and paperwork.

The votes are in!

Over the summer people have been nominating a worthy member of the RNSA, who they think merits recognition to win the Haven Knox-Johnston Volunteer of the Year Award.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who submitted nominations to help us identify a volunteer who has truly gone above and beyond their remit.

We’re excited to announce that our winner is…

Richard Farrington CBE

Congratulations!

Commodore (Ret’d) Richard Farrington CBE has been named the Haven Knox-Johnston Volunteer of the Year in recognition of his tireless commitment, energy and vision in support of the Association and its members.

Who is Richard Farrington CBE?

Richard joined the RNSA in 1980 and has been a regular racer, cruiser and volunteer ever since. Over the years he has served as Portsmouth Branch Captain and as RNSA Chairman, and in 2024 he took on the key role of Rear Commodore Cruising. This position brings together a large proportion of the Association’s membership, whether they sail in local waters or across the globe. Richard has been determined to increase participation and raise ambition by putting new support frameworks in place, improving the cruising elements of the RNSA website, refreshing the network of Honorary Local Officers, and organising a programme of winter talks to help prepare members for the season ahead.

2025 marks RNSA’s 90th anniversary, and Richard’s initiative, drive and vision placed the ambitious Round Britain Cruise at the heart of the celebrations. His idea of a Great British Cruise brought together serving personnel on a MOD yacht alongside members in their own craft, sailing in ten legs between May and July. The endeavour demanded immense time and energy to deliver, but was a resounding success: a unique opportunity for challenge, fun and friendship, while also raising the profile of both RNSA and sailing more widely. It also embodied the Navy’s and RNSA’s shared values, showcasing the best of service and civilian seamanship side by side.

Black and white illustration of a volunteer in a suit, hands in pockets, standing and facing forward.
Three men stand indoors; the center volunteer holds a framed certificate and an award before a green leafy backdrop.

Alongside this, Richard has been spearheading his ‘Cruising Pathways’ initiative. Designed to make yachting more accessible by breaking down perceived blockers, the programme will help members build miles, gain qualifications, meet and sail together, and achieve new challenges afloat. This focus on inclusivity and accessibility is already increasing numbers at cruising events and will continue to grow in the years ahead.

Even while leading these major projects, Richard found time to take part in a cruise to the north Brittany coast and a family cruise to northern Spain, reflecting his personal love of sailing and exploration.

This award is a richly deserved and reflects a genuine recognition of his tireless commitment to support RNSA members in their many and varied sailing journeys. It was presented by Paul Knox-Johnston at RNSA’s end of season party on 26 September. With Richard’s extensive cruising plans, there is no doubt that the GoPro prize will be put to very good use.

About the RNSA

Founded in 1935, the Royal Naval Sailing Association (RNSA) has a wide membership including serving personnel and veterans. It’s purpose is to encourage sailing and in so doing improve the military efficiency of the Royal Navy. Over the years, thousands of members have generously volunteered their time and skills to support this work and we are delighted to partner with the RNSA to recognise these efforts. One way we do this is by sponsoring the Volunteer of the Year Award, as we look forward to doing so again next year!

For enquiries, call us:
+44 (0)1732 223 650
For a boat insurance quote:

Related News

Why insure your boat with HK-J?

A person on a boat reaches out to another person standing on the riverbank, both smiling, with a river and hills in the background.
Great client loyalty scheme
Friendly Boat Loving Crew
Friendly, boat-loving crew
Boat Insurance Is In Our DNA
Boating’s in our DNA