Sail Grapevine

Summer Sailing Camp is a fun safe environment for youth to learn the basic skills required for small boat sailing, as well as more advanced skills for those ready to ‘Level Up.”  Our camps develop personal growth, self-confidence, leadership, sportsmanship, and teamwork.  Our staff is dedicated to teaching the practical safety and skills, along with basic theory and knowledge which turns campers into sailors.  Even if you have you have never been on a boat/sailboat previously, after two weeks campers are able to sail themselves and family  around our harbor, on their own.  Campers range from age 7-16, and are encouraged to return to see their new “lake friends” multiple years.

 

We offer two levels of sailing camp each summer.

 

Learn to sail or recreational camp.

Campers learn the joys of sailing and time at the lake.  It starts with ensuring that life-jacket is a proper fit, followed by a simple swim test.  From there campers will be taught the basic parts of a boat, how to care for, rig, and launch a small boat.  Learning basic “rules of the road water” right of way, knots, safety, and yes how to sail upwind.  These sessions are designed to accommodate a variety of camper levels from new to a 4th year return “old salt.”   Campers are required to bring a USCG approved life jacket and closed toes shoes.  You will even see some wearing protective head gear.

 

Introduction to Laser / Optimist – Pre-Race

Previous learn to sail camp, or prior sailing experience is a requirement for this one.  Campers will spend their time on either the “Opti” or Laser/ILCA class sailboat.  This camp is intended to be an introduction to the two classes of boats sailed and raced by youth world-wide.  Campers will learn more advanced boat rigging and tuning techniques; they should get comfortable in and launching/landing, sailing, and controlling a one-person boat.  An introduction to racing gives them further knowledge in the Sailing Rules, along with tuning, tactics, course/wind management, and more.  Completion of this camp sets them up to explore more adventures in sailing including the options of a junior race team.  -college scholarships, US Nationals, Olympic Teams-the door has been opened for those who put in the time.