Sailing School 2026

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.


2027 Sailing Classes

Check out our Instagram to see pictures from last season and look out for sign-ups in 2027! You can register interest here.

Session Dates (TBC):

Intro to Watercraft Session A: late June 2027

Intro to Watercraft Session B: late June 2027

Session 1: Early July 2027

Session 2: Mid to late July 2027

Session 3: Early August 2027

Let Them Sail (TBD): Mid August 2027

Adult Sailing Class: Session A - July 2027; Session B - August 2027

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.

 

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.

Questions? Concerns? Need help?

Email info@sherbornyachtclub.org

We’ll get back to you ASAP, usually within a day of your email.