What is a typical day like at Sail Camp?

Everyday starts with a stretch, introductions, hydration, and sun protection session. After that we have a weather report led by a Junior Camp Leader. Our Interns will then introduce the learning targets for the day in a session we call “Chalk Talk”. We will then do a team building exercise, land drill, and/or skill demo. Rigging is usually started by 10am for a 10:30/11am appearance on the water. Lunch is typically around 12:30. Depending on the weather our groups are usually off the water de-rigging and debriefing by 3pm. Mondays are all about introductions and can typically have a much slower morning on shore.

Do I need to pay to enter Lake Nighthorse for drop off and pick up?

Yes. It is $10/day/vehicle. Even if its just to drop off. Please contact us for discounted pass options, and carpooling opportunities.

In which level should my child enroll?

Level 1 courses are all about fun and skill acquisition! During Level 2 courses we teach groups to race, voyage, and/or navigate. Many of our participants do multiple Level 1’s before they are interested in focused sailing. Please contact us directly as often times our Level 2 sessions have mixed ability enrollment.

What if it there is foul weather?

We adjust our sails! We are sailors, afterall. If there is lightening we remove children from the water immediately using our safety boat. If there is high wind, we assess the skills of our group. Often times our Interns and Leaders are excited to sail in heavier conditions. If it is safe, we will pair eager students with an instructor, Intern or Leader. Less eager sailors will ride on Sharkie and observe tactics. In the event of a lightening storm that should last longer than one hour, the session may be cancelled for the day.

What kinds of boats are in the fleet?

We sail primarily on Sunfish and Lasers. We introduce the use of a headsail with our RS Quba (which also can be sailed without the headsail using its Pro Sail), and our Precision 16’ Keelboat. We also have a Banshee fleet.

What if my child is scared?

While we encourage sailing, we also aim to inspire a love for boating and teach prudent seamanship. If a child needs a break from a sailboat, they are invited aboard Sharkie to assist the instructors, rehydrate, rewarm, sit in the shade and observe. It may look and feel like a break, but we believe some learners benefit from observation. Aboard Sharkie, our instructors are actively discussing weather, tactics, wind speed, directions, and critiquing sail trim. Your sailor is benefiting from the exposure and the experience of being on the water. We also ask parents to address concerns with our instructors so we can lend a personalized approach to ensuring the comfort of the sailor.

What is “Sharkie”?

Sharkie is our safety boat! Sharkie circles the sailboats, leads the sailboats and serves as an on the water aide station. She is our rescue vessel! Sailors are instructed to stay within 10 boat lengths of Sharkie at all times. When there are sailboats on the water, Sharkie is near by!

My Child LOVES your program. What is next?

This is our goal achieved! Please contact us about Afterschool Sailing Clubs in Fall and Spring. Also, please visit our Junior Leadership page.