Sailing School 2025
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 this season, email us at instruction@sherbornyachtclub.org.
Please note we cannot be flexible with grade requirements, thank you for understanding.
Intro to Watercraft • Mariners • First Mates • Skippers • Let Them Sail • Adult Class
Overview
Read on to learn more about group instruction. Members get a discount of 20% — please check your membership confirmation email for the discount code!
To sign up for membership, look here.
| Class | Member Rate | Non-Member Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Intro to Watercraft | ||
| Mariners | ||
| First Mates | ||
| Skippers | ||
| Mariners PM (12+) | ||
| Let Them Sail | ||
| Adult Sailing Class |
2025 Sailing and Watercraft Classes
Classes have capacities based on the current number of instructors and spots in boats. If the class you have planned to join is full, please fill out this form to be added to the waitlist. We will inform you if a cancellation opens up a spot for you!
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.
Mornings (9-12) June 23 - June 26 - FULL, waitlist
Afternoons (1-4) June 23 - June 26 - ONE spot left!
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.
Session 1 (June 27 - July 11, no class 7/4)
Session 2 (July 14 - July 25) - few spots left!
Session 3 (July 28 - August 8) - few spots left!
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.
Session 1 (June 27 - July 11, no class 7/4) - FULL, waitlist
Session 2 (July 14 - July 25) - FULL, waitlist
Session 3 (July 28 - August 8) - FULL, waitlist
One week sessions available - contact instruction@sherbornyachtclub.org for more info:
July 21 - 25
July 28 - August 1
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.
Session 1 (June 27 - July 11, no class 7/4) - few spots left!
Session 2 (July 14 - July 25) - FULL, waitlist
Session 3 (July 28 - August 8) - FULL, waitlist
Skippers
(Advanced, rising fourth graders and above) 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.
Session 1 (June 27 - July 11, no class 7/4) - FULL, waitlist
Session 2 (July 14 - July 25) - FULL, waitlist
Session 3 (July 28 - August 8) - FULL, waitlist
One week sessions available - contact instruction@sherbornyachtclub.org for more info:
July 7 - July 11
July 21 - July 25
July 28 - August 1 (2 spots)
Let Them Sail
Formally known as Sailing Week of Fun
(Intermediates, rising third graders) Join us for an extra week of sailing school filled with activities and independent sailing! For five days, sailors 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 are confident in their sailing abilities. Themes for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday to be announced!
Rising third graders and up with prior sailing experience.
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. Meeting for four weeks each on Tuesdays from 5-7pm, this is a perfect way to get into (or back into!) sailing on Farm Pond in our RS Quests.