Guppy, Youth Sailing, Kayaking, SUP Classes

Guppies (ages 5-7)  

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!  Must be able to pass a simple swim ‘check’ with their own personal flotation device (PFD) on. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

Seamen (ages 7 ½ – 11)  Beginner/Intermediate

This class is for students who have little or no experience in small sailboats. Class covers the fundamentals: how to rig, de-rig, care for the boats and equipment, capsize recovery, understanding the wind, and tack and gibe. These classes are taught using Bugs. Sailors often remain in this class until requirements are met, as a one week class scratches the skills surface. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

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 gibe. These classes are taught using FJ’s (Flying Juniors).  Sailors often remain in this class until requirements are met. Students learning or brushing up on double handed boats, coordinating jib and main rim and capsize recovery (a favorite) often need several weeks strengthening skills before moving on to stronger breeze and more advanced skills. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

Ensigns (ages 7 1/2–11)  (pre-requisite Seaman class or equivalent)

Ensigns builds on the basics with an emphasis on learning finer points of boat handling and sail theory. Other topics may include introduction to advanced boat handling and boat prep. Students will sail Bugs with race sails. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

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. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

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 technique 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 additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

Kayaking  (ages 8 – 18)

This class is designed to introduce and increase paddling skills in kayaks.  Paddlers will learn to use correct 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 on Wednesdays. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.

SUP  (ages 8-18)

This class is designed to introduce and increase paddling skills on stand-up paddle boards.  Paddlers will learn to use correct strokes, rescue techniques, both self and others. Games and lake exploration are part of the program. Paddlers mentor the Guppies on their paddle boards on Thursdays. Please see additional information for your child to be successful on the FAQ page.