For over 25 years, hundreds of students have completed this fun-filled summer sailing program! The approved curriculum is used. Students learn a sport for life and continue to enjoy either recreational sailing or exciting competitive racing Some havebeen recognized as collegiate or national racing champions. The Charleston Yacht Club Junior Sail Program is available to all 7 to 14 year olds. Parents need not belong to the Charleston Yacht Club, however, they are certainly invited to inquire about membership
Boats are provided for all participants. The current fleet consists of 10 Optimist Dinghies and 4 420's. Younger students begin in the Opti, pictured on the left.
As students gain skills and experience, they advance to the 420. The 420's provide opportunity to advance skills in handling 2 sails and team sailing. A 420 is pictured below.
Students will have the opportunity to participate in local regattas using club boats. Participation will be as space is available.
The Approach
A parent-student orientation will be held before the start of each class. This provides an opportunity to meet the instructors and learn more about the program. The program is fun and safe. Both theory and practice are stressed. Each student is required to wear a Type III PFD while on the docks or on the water and demonstrate the ability to swim. Safety boats are always on the water to supervise and assist students.
The Instructors
The training team includes a Program Director, a Lead Instructor, several Senior and Junior Instructors. All instructors are U.S. Sailing Association Cerfified, with current Red Cross CPR and first aid certification. The program is closely supervised by the Program Director and the Charleston Yacht Club Advisory Committee.
