A free sailing program for students ages 8 to 13

Youth Sailing 2025

Gulfport Youth Sailing Inc. and Boca Ciega Yacht Club announce the Youth Sailing Program for the summer of 2025. This year the summer instructional program, where we teach the basics of sailing, will begin on June 9th and run approximately to June 27th. 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 9th) in order to participate. 

Youth Sailing Permission Form

Youth Sailing Medical Form

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