Sailing School Frequently Asked Questions

What is the schedule for sailing school, can we register for just one week?

Sailing School runs for 8 weeks from late June through mid-August. While the program is best enjoyed by participating in as many consecutive weeks as possible, students may sign up for any weeks.


What should my child wear to Sailing School?

Students should come to Sailing School with sunblock applied and a bathing suit under a dry-wick or rash guard shirt suitable for getting wet and quick dry shorts. Please do not send your children in cotton clothing. Closed toe shoes like Keens, water shoes or Crocs (with the back strap on) are a must to protect their toes. Students may not wear flip-flops or have bare feet at any time. Sunglasses and a hat are also a plus.

The most important and necessary item is a US Coast Guard approved life jacket. All students are required to have their life jacket when they arrive at the Club. Many life jackets look alike, so please make sure your child's name is clearly marked on his or hers.


Where are some good places to purchase sailing gear?

Locally: West Marine (Hyannis and other locations), Nauset Sports (Orleans)

Online: Team One Newport


Where do I look for notification of class cancellations or early dismissal due to weather?

Class is held regardless of weather unless parents are notified. You will also see a notice on the white board outside the Club about any class cancellations. 

 

Swim Tests

At the end of the first day of Sailing School, all new students must take a swim test. The swim test requires a sailor, without a life jacket, swim approximately 30 feet, tread water for one minute and float on their back.

 

Where can I park at the Club? 

Parking is at a premium around the Club. There are a few parking spots on the Club side of Champlain Road between Port Fortune Lane and the Club. If you have a town beach parking sticker you can park on the grass lot across from the Club next to the Harbor Master’s storage garage. There are also some open spots at the parking lot next to the Harbor Master’s Building.  Please avoid parking where you see cones. These are designated reserved parking spaces and/or pick up and drop off areas.

We encourage members and students to ride bikes to the Club. We have several bike racks on the beach. Don't forget a helmet!

 

What Types of Boats are sailed during SailingSchool? 

The Sailing School uses Sprites, Optis, 420s, O'PEN Bics and Day Sailers during classes. The Club will provide sailors with boats. Private boat ownership is not necessary, though some students do keep privately owned boats at the Club to use for classes, races and recreational sailing.


How do I sign my child or myself up for private lessons?

Please see our Private Lesson page. 

 

Can our family friend/cousin join my child for sailing school one day?

Due to space constraints we do not allow guests to attend class. You are welcome to bring visitors to observe the beginning or end of class; however, an adult should accompany any minors.

 

Why don't you have the "answers" to the advancement qualifications written down somewhere?

All students (children and adults alike) have different learning styles. We believe our sailing curriculum should be accessible to all. We believe giving students a list of definitions and diagrams of parts would defeat the purpose of attending sailing school. To this end, please let us know of any information about your child's learning profile that would be helpful for us to best understand your child's approach to learning.


Do we need to let you know if our child will be absent from Sailing School? 

It is important that your child checks in at the beginning of each class, but it is not necessary to report an absence. 


What class should I sign my child up for?

Please review the Program Guide to better understand where your child aligns in one of our programs. 


Where can I find SHYC apparel?

Follow this link to our SHYC Merchandise website!


When do I register my child for sailing school? 

Registration opens March 1. We encourage people to register early so the Sailing School can best prepare for the season, but understand that schedules change. We allow changes on any registration at any time and refunds are given before JUNE 1st. 

Students who withdraw prior to JUNE 1st may receive a full refund of Sailing School/Race Team fees paid. Students withdrawing on or after June 1st will receive no refunds.