Richard Hayden received a Lifetime Commitment Award after being nominated by his club and selected by The association’s Honours and Awards Panel.
Princess Anne, who is President of the association, presented him with the accolade at One Great George Street in London.
The Mariners encourages people with physical disabilities and the able-bodied to sail together on an equal basis.
Richard is one of the founder members of the club, which started with a single Challenger dinghy in 1989.
The Royal Yachting Association [RYA] said: “He remains the mainstay of the organisation, having introduced countless disabled and non-disabled people to sailing with the conviction that everyone getting out on the water together is the best way to promote the sport.
“A selfless, professional team player, he has always been keenly involved with operations and management and has held most committee roles as well as being chair for many years.
“Now a trustee, his knowledge of national regulations and best practices has kept the Mariners compliant and legal.”
The RYA added: “He continues to provide active support at all events and sailing days, and to nurture social camaraderie within the organisation.
“No task is too small for Richard, whether it is repairing a boat, taking someone nervous out on the water for the first time, or organising rotas.
“He is there helping, encouraging, putting the hours in and making the Mariners a really worthwhile organisation to belong to.”
Richard said: “I am honoured to have been nominated, and delighted to have been presented this award.
“It was a privilege to spend a lovely day amongst people from all parts of the UK who are equally passionate about sailing.
“Receiving an award for my contribution over the past 30 years to our integrated sailing club, Mariners of Bewl, was wonderful.
“I look forward to many more years’ involvement and enjoyment sailing with other members, irrespective of any physical disability or ability, on our reservoir.”
