Roc City Sailing offers hands-on sailing classes for kids and teens ages 8 to 17. Our goal is to teach young sailors how to handle a boat safely and confidently while having fun and developing teamwork and respect for the water.
All programs are taught by US Sailing–certified instructors and junior counselors who emphasize safety, inclusion, and skill progression. Classes are held on Irondequoit Bay using Pram Dinghies, Sunfish, and JY15 sailboats.
All youth sailors are required to wear life jackets at all times. Boats and gear are provided; students should bring a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and clothing that can get wet.
Classes are kept small to ensure individualized instruction and safety. Parents will receive a confirmation email with class details and what to bring before the first day of lessons.
| Program | Price |
|---|---|
| Half-day programs (8:30a-12p or 1p-4:30p) | $235/week |
| Full-day programs (8:30-4:30p) | $420/week |
| *Financial assistance available – see Scholarships |
Class Descriptions
Youth Beginner
A fun introduction to sailing for kids ages 8–17. Students learn basic sailing skills including rigging, steering, tacking, gybing, and understanding the wind. Lessons include games, teamwork, and capsize recovery in a safe, supportive environment.
Youth Intermediate (Youth/Adult Intermediate)
Designed for sailors who already know the basics and can steer and control their boats. This class builds independence and introduces more advanced concepts and boat handling. Students gain confidence sailing solo and further develop the principles of upwind and downwind sailing.
Bridge to Racing (Youth/Adult Bridge to Racing)
For experienced sailors ready to try sailboat racing in a fun, low-pressure setting. Students learn about racecourses, basic rules, teamwork, and strategy before heading out to practice and run short, friendly races on the bay.
Race Clinic (Youth/Adult Race Clinic)
This advanced class is for sailors looking to improve racing performance. It focuses on boat speed, mark rounding, and tactical decision-making, with coaching both on and off the water.
Practice Sail (Youth/Adult)
Once you’ve learned the basics of controlling a sailboat, the thing that helps you progress most quickly is simply time on the water. Practice Sails give you that: relaxed, loosely structured sailing time to build comfort, try different conditions, and work on your maneuvers and confidence.
Instructors are on hand to offer coaching and tips based on where you are in your learning, and safety boats are always nearby to help. It’s low-pressure time to get more familiar with the boat, gain confidence, and log the hours that turn new skills into second nature.
Sailing Counselor in Training (Ages 14–16)
A leadership program for teens interested in becoming junior instructors. Participants work alongside staff to learn teaching techniques, communication, safety, and leadership skills. Some may earn certifications such as first aid or boating safety.