Guppies (ages 5-7.5)
Hands on class focusing on helping kids feel comfortable in and around boats. Lots of activities and some pond science will be intermingled with an introduction to Kayaking (mini sit-upon Kayaks), SUP and Sailing, all with the goal of FUN! A simple swim ‘check’ with their own personal flotation device (PFD) will be administered. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
Seamen (ages 7 ½ – 11) Beginner/Intermediate
This class is for students who have little or no experience in small sailboats. The class covers the fundamentals: how to rig and de-rig, care for boats and equipment, capsize recovery, understanding wind, and tacking and gybing. These classes are taught using Bugs. Sailors often remain in this class until requirements are met, as a one-week class scratches the surface of the skills. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
Mates (ages 12-18) Beginner/Intermediate
For sailors looking for an introduction to dinghy sailing or to brush up on skills learned last year: how to rig, de-rig, care for boats and equipment, capsize recovery, and tack and gybe. These classes are taught using our collegiate FJ’s (Flying Juniors). Sailors often remain in this class until requirements are met. Students learning or brushing up on double-handed boats, coordinating the jib and main rig, and capsize recovery (a favourite) often need several weeks to strengthen their skills before moving on to stronger breezes and more advanced skills. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
Ensigns (ages 7 1/2–11) (pre-requisite Seaman class or equivalent)
Ensigns build on the basics with an emphasis on learning finer points of boat handling and sail theory. Other topics may include an introduction to advanced boat handling and boat prep. Students will sail Bugs and occasionally RS Teras and Sunfish. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
Mariners (ages 8-11) (pre-requisite Ensign class or its equivalent)
This program focuses on creating competent, confident sailors. Students are introduced to both small and larger boats. Popular with students who are interested in learning advanced boat handling skills, possibly with a future interest in racing. Students will sail RS Teras, Bugs, Sunfish and other boats. Students will have the opportunity to travel to regattas with MSST on a select basis. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
Skippers (ages 12-18) (pre-requisite Mates class or its equivalent)
Covers advanced boat handling, tuning and sail trim. These classes are taught using FJ’s and 420’s with an introduction to bigger boats. Popular with students who are interested in learning advanced boat handling skills. Students interested in learning to race can use this class to begin to develop those skills. Students will be using FJ’s, Sunfish, Blue Jays and other boats with the goal of developing a variety of skills.
MSST – Junior Racing Team (ages 12-18) (pre-requisite Skippers class or its equivalent).
Designed for experienced sailors interested in developing and refining racing skills. Sailors learn advanced techniques and kinetics, as well as racing tactics and strategy in both fleet and team racing.
Travel to weekly events is part of this class. Advanced MSST sailors will travel to additional regattas. Boats used are single, double and triple-handed. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
Kayaking (ages 8 – 18)
This class is designed to introduce and increase paddling skills in kayaks. Paddlers will learn proper strokes, rescue techniques, wet exits, and re-entry. Games and lake exploration are part of the program. Kayakers mentor the Guppies with their mini-Kayaks each week. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.
SUP (Standup Paddleboarding) (ages 8-18)
This class is designed to introduce and improve paddling skills on stand-up paddleboards. Paddlers will learn to use proper strokes and rescue techniques for both themselves and others. Games and lake exploration are part of the program. Paddlers mentor the Guppies on their paddle boards each week. Please see the FAQ page for additional information to help your child succeed.