Youth Sailing Program

A free sailing program for students ages 8 to 13



The Youth Sailing Program is divided in two parts; instructional and ongoing. The instructional portion starts in early summer when the students are taught to sail prams. Classes are open to children of Club members, the City of Gulfport, and the wider community based on availability.

The ongoing portion runs after the instructional portion is over based on instructor's availability. Sailors participate in activities such as “boat tag,” sailing around Boca Ciega Bay, sailing to Cat’s Point to explore the estuary, or sailing to Gulfport Beach for a swim. The enjoyment of sailing, boat handling skills, and safety are emphasized over racing. There is no cost to the student for participating in the program but it does fill up quickly.

This is one way Boca Ciega Yacht Club promotes sailing!

Youth Sailing 2024

Boca Ciega Yacht Club announces the Youth Program for the summer of 2024. This year the summer instructional program, where we teach the basics of sailing, will begin on June 10th and run approximately to June 28th. The classes will meet Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00 AM until noon. There may be additional days added at the end of the scheduled classes for days that we can't sail for weather reasons.

 

We cover a lot of material in a short period of time and it's difficult to make up lost days. We ask, for that reason, that when you register your child, you dedicate them for those hours, to the class.

 

A parent or guardian must fill out and sign the permission and emergency medical forms which MUST be turned in on the first day of class (Monday, June 10th) in order to participate. 


Youth Sailing Permission Form.pdf

 

By the end of the program students should be able to sail a pram and understand the principles and mechanics of sailing. The age of the students, however, will control the depth of this understanding. The very basic concept of sailing is difficult for most children under 8. We, therefore, require children to be at least 8 years old, and they should be a mature 8, an no older than 13. They must also pass a swim test which consists of treading water for 5 minutes, donning a life jacket in the water, and swimming on their back while wearing a life jacket. They must also demonstrate an at ease demeanor in the water.

 

Students must wear Sunscreen, hat or visor and water shoes. Flip-flops are not acceptable water shoes. They must be secured to the feet. Sneakers, water shoes or boat shoes that can get wet are fine. If your child has a life jacket they may bring their personal life jacket. Type III life jackets are worn in the boats.

 

Any parents interested in volunteering to help out or for specific questions, please email our Youth Sailing group at youthsailing@sailbcyc.org




 ~ Save the Date ~

June 10 - June 28, 2024





Click Here to Register
Open to members on April 1st

Open to non-members on May 1st


Past Summer Program Photos














Got Questions? Want to volunteer? Contact youthsailing@sailbcyc.org