Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need any prior sailing experience?

No prior sailing experience is necessary. Most participants have never sailed before and that’s okay. Our skippers and instructors will guide your camper every step of the way.

What age group is the camp geared towards?

The program is geared for children ages 9-15. Kids on the low end of the age range should be considered mature for their age. Participants are grouped by age. Teenagers age 16-18 are encouraged to contact us about applying to be junior instructors.

How many students to a boat are there?

We limit each boat to 6 campers in order to provide the best sailing education possible. This small size affords students the hands on experience and personal attention that is paramount in our program. We have a student to counselor ratio of 5:1.

How long do the camp sessions run?

Each camp session is two weeks in length and meets from 9:00 to 4:00 Monday through Friday. Early Drop-off and Late Pick-up is available.

What are the Pick-up and Drop-off locations?

Parents can drop their children at our docks at the 79th Street Boat Basin or on the NW corner of West 79th Street and Riverside Drive in Riverside Park.

What happens on rainy days?

Rain storms generally pass over the area very quickly and rarely affect our sailing, if the weather does becomes unpleasant campers enjoy a number of indoor activities. Some may travel with our staff to the South Street Seaport and the Museum of Natural History to learn about the history and science of sailing while others will spend the day on board learning below decks. We will seek indoor shelter if the weather becomes dangerous.

Are lifejackets mandatory?

Yes, we provide high quality properly fitting US Coast Guard approved lifejackets for all camp participants. They are required to be worn from the second he or she sets foot on the the docks and at all times aboard vessels. Please stress the importance of this rule with your camper.  

Is the program safe?

Yes. Safety is at our forefront. Activities are carefully planned and professionally overseen. We put a maximum of six campers on board each vessel and have a camper / counselor ratio of 5:1. This aids in supervision and leads to a safe, flexible, and fun summer. Our vessels are manned by professional mariners with years of experience in difficult situations. In the event emergency medical attention is required, our launches give quick access to shore based emergency personnel. The Atlantic Yachting Association fleet is always within range of radio and telephone contact with NY/NJ emergency services and also has a direct connection to the United States Coast Guard. We monitor harbor weather daily and should the need arise we have a full inclement weather plan, including the relocation to a land-based shelter if necessary. We have a 100% percent clean safety record and use all available means to keep your child safe and happy on the water.

Are the activities challenging?

If your child can swim and enjoys light physical exertion, all activities will be within their abilities. Our instructors will start off easy and progress as campers skills grow. All we ask is for your child’s readiness to try new things and participate fully in group activities. Each camper will have responsibilities and their willingness to perform them will allow the entire group to have an awesome summer.

What are the meals like?

The food is great, by far the best of any of the summer programs. Generally campers and staff prepare meals together but sometime in order to facilitate more sailing time we have lunch catered. Meals prepared on deck at the barbecue grill range from burgers or chicken to sandwiches. Servings are plentiful, served family style. Water and snacks are readily available. Special needs, kosher, and vegetarian diets can be accommodated.

Can my camper bring his or her own lunch or  drinks?

Yes, we provide nutritious meals and lots of cold water, but we understand that children often have unique tastes so if your child would be happier bringing his or her lunch or drinks this is fine. We do however ask do ask that you do not send any drinks with caffeine as they tend to dehydrate the campers and make them more susceptible to seasickness.

Are there any additional expenses?

No. Tuition is all-inclusive and covers all program activities, meals and equipment needs.

May campers sail in more than one session?

Yes. Consecutive voyages may be combined, allowing for additional breadth of experience and advanced education. Sail one session or sail all summer. A 5% discount will be allowed for repeat students. Do you offer discounts for referrals? Yes. Send us your friends and we’ll take $200 off when they register. Please make sure your friends fill out the appropriate referral section on the registration page.

What should my camper bring?

All necessary equipment is provided, including all supplies, safety gear, lifejackets and equipment. Just have him arrive with an open mind and desire to have fun, as well as a good pair of non-marking deck shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.

What kind of shoes does my child need? 

Shoes are a very important item aboard a boat as the provide traction on slick wet surfaces and they protect feet from impact with deck hardware. Shoes must have a soft non-marking sole and should be fast drying. Open toe shoes are not allowed. We  highly recommend these brands of sailing specific shoes - Sperry, Sebago, Docksiders, Harken, and Keen. They can be found online and in local stores (West Marine - 37th b/w 5th and 6th).

How can my child be reached during the day?

Our instructional staff carry cellular phones as well as ship to shore radio communication equipment. Parents can call the main Atlantic Yachting Association number 212-518-4604 at anytime to relay pertinent information or leave a message for a camper to return the call.

Do you have any scholarships or financial aid?

Yes, we have a limited number of scholarship opportunities available to those who have a financial need. Please email info@atlanticyachting.org for details.

How can I find out more?

Call or e-mail us, we are happy to discuss in detail all aspects of our camp. or 212-518-4604.