CLICK HERE for photos from the ‘modified’ junior sailing program 2020
The Junior Sailing Program offers basic through advanced sailing instruction to youth ages 8 and older. Instructors are certified in First Aid and CPR. Instruction takes place on the protected waters around Beaufort.
This exciting program teaches the arts of rigging, sailing and seamanship, and introduces the students to maritime traditions and history. It is designed to teach the basic skills of sailing to beginners and to hone the skills of more advanced students, using a combination of time in the classroom and on the water.
The program helps participants develop self-esteem, responsibility, and sportsmanship, as well as knowledge of and respect for the forces of nature. An awareness of boating safety is emphasized throughout the program.
Register Online for 2021 starting: tba.
CLICK HERE to register.
The Junior Sailing Program uses the two classes of sailboats which are commonly used in sailing and racing programs through the U.S., see below for details about each class of sailboat.
PARTICIPANTS IN ALL SESSIONS MUST:
- Be at least 8 years old when classes begin (NO EXCEPTIONS).
- Be able to successfully demonstrate his or her ability to swim.
- Have parent complete and return the Student Medical and Liability Release Forms.
- Bring a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket (PFD).
- In addition, student should bring suitable clothing and accessories, including water shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water bottle.
Registration and Cancellations
Reservations cannot be made via e-mail and are confirmed only after payment is processed. Registration costs, less a 10% fee, are refunded when the Museum receives cancellation notice at least two weeks before the start of a program. There is no refund within two weeks of the start of a program.
Two Classes of Sailboats
International Optimist Dinghy (IOD or OPTI)
The IOD is recognized worldwide as the sail-training and competition boat for youth ages 8-15 and is the ideal craft for teaching sailing to beginners. It has a single, sprit-rigged sail and is 7 feet and 9 inches long. The Junior Sailing Program uses 18IODs, all built at the Museum’s Watercraft Center and maintained by staff and volunteers. The maximum student weight in the Opti is 130 lbs.
Junior Sailing Program participants often get started in an Opti like this one.
Flying Junior (FJ)
The FJ is 13 feet 3 inches long and has two sails, a mainsail and a jib. It carries a two-person team. Each crew member will learn to rig, launch and sail this fun and fast daysailer. Racing fundamentals, tuning techniques and proper boat handling will be covered. The program has four FJs. Students wishing to participate in the Flying Junior class must have sailing experience and knowledge, preferably from at least one session of the Museum’s Junior Sailing Program. Participants must weigh at least 100 lbs.
Older students and students with more experience will enjoy learning to sail the Flying J.
Sessions
Two-week session for Optis and FJs are offered, with one group session in the morning from 8:30 am until noon and another in the afternoon from 1 pm until 4:30 pm.
A Regatta Week Session meets for one week, Monday through Friday, beginning August 6, from 12:30 pm until 5 pm. On Saturday, August 11, students participate in the Hoop Pole Regatta. The purpose of this is session to gain familiarity with the boats and to prepare for racing in a regatta.
The Regatta Week registration fee includes lunch and dinner on Saturday. It is expected that a parent or guardian will accompany each student to the regatta.
Download important documents here:
JUNIOR SAILING PROGRAM SCHOLARSHIPS
Limited need-based financial assistance is available for the Museum’s Junior Sailing Program. Typical awards result in 50% discount on program tuition.
Mail letter from candidate stating desire to attend the Program and letter from parent/guardian stating financial need to Brent Creelman, 315 Front Street, Beaufort, NC 28516.
For questions about scholarships call 252-728-2762 or email brent@maritimefriends.org.
