The best summers are on the water!
The SYC provides group instructional sailing programs for all levels. Programs are tailored for sailors starting with first grade (Intro to Watercraft) up to high school or advanced sailing techniques (Skippers). Our curriculum is divided into two-week sessions during which students generally progress to the next level after two sessions of the same level, but varies by person.
If your sailor has completed an SYC program in the past and would like advice on what level they should participate in next year, email us at instruction@sherbornyachtclub.org.
Please note we cannot be flexible with grade requirements, thank you for understanding.
2025 Sailing Classes
Check out our Instagram to see pictures from last season and look out for sign-ups in 2025! You can register interest here.
Tentative Session Dates:
Intro to Watercraft: June 23 - June 26, 2025
Session 1: June 27 - July 11, 2025 (no class 7/4)
Session 2: July 14 - July 25, 2025
Session 3: July 28 - August 8, 2025
Week of Fun: August 11 - August 15, 2025
Adult Sailing Class: Session A - July 8, 15, 22, and 29, 2025; Session B - August 5, 12, 19, and 26, 2025
Intro to Watercraft
(Rising first graders and above) Introduces students to the joys of boating! They will learn the ins and outs of paddling, rowing and sailing in a super-fun environment during this one-week course in the preseason before our summer sessions begin. This class is great for kids who are new to the feeling of independence at the waterfront.
AM and PM classes available, but please note we do not have staff available between so we ask that students are signed up for one or the other, not both.
Mariners
(Beginners, rising second graders and above) This two-week sailing class will include a series of friendly fun on-the-water and on-shore activities designed to introduce students to the sport of sailing. Knowledge of the boat, rigging, basic sailing, water safety and confidence in handling all points of sailing are emphasized. Two sessions and instructor recommendation from the skill check are recommended before moving to more advanced classes. Classes run Monday-Friday, 9am-noon.
Mariners PM
(Beginners, rising sixth graders and above) Our Mariners class, but held in the afternoons for older beginners who are new to sailing. The class will follow the same Mariners curriculum but at a quicker pace and with more independence. Classes run Monday-Friday, 1pm-4pm. Please note we cannot be flexible on this grade requirement, thank you for understanding.
First Mates
(Intermediates, rising third graders) This two-week sailing class will move quickly through the curriculum with a concentration on upwind sailing. Special emphasis will be placed on making sailors comfortable with all aspects of sailing including skippering and crewing. Two prior sessions of Mariners are required and two sessions of First Mates and instructor recommendation from the skill check are recommended before moving to Skippers. Classes run Monday-Friday, 1pm-4pm.
Skippers (formerly Race Team)
(Advanced, rising fourth graders) This program will build on skills learned in previous levels with a focus on fleet racing skills such as wind direction & shifts, starting, types of courses, boat speed, boat handling, and tactics. Sailors will sail a combination of O'pen Skiffs, RS Zests, and RS Quests based on age, size, and ability.
Sailors will have an opportunity to skipper and crew. It is perfect preparation for sailors considering joining a High School Sailing Team or participating independently in any races or regattas. There will be opportunities to participate in racing events at the SYC. Must have completed sessions of First Mates or prior sailing experience. Classes run Monday-Friday, 1pm-4pm.
Sailing Week of Fun
(Intermediates, rising third graders) Join us for an extra week of sailing! During this week of sailing fun, campers will enjoy theme days, a race day, and a final Great Burgee Race. Open to sailors who have completed a session of First Mates or Skippers and MUST be able to sail on their own. No new content will be taught, but techniques learned during other sessions will be used.
Adult Sailing Class
(Beginners/Intermediates, ages 18+) Need a brush up on your sailing skills? First timer? This is the class for you! Our team of instructors will help meet you at your skill level and get you to the point of sailing on your own. This is a perfect way to get into (or back into!) sailing on Farm Pond in our RS Quests. Classes run for four weeks on Tuesdays from 5pm-7pm.