SAILING CLASS FAQ

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Q: What types of boats are used for instruction?

Optimists (Optis for short) are small, one-person sailing dinghies. The Optimist Class is the largest class of boats in the world. Optis are unique in that they are ideal beginner boats, but also a class for competitive racing. Sailors can compete in Opti regattas through the year in which they turn 15. Sailors are encouraged to stay in Optis as long as they are comfortable in the boat. Optis are the best boats to learn in, and Opti sailors go on to be among the best sailors around.

Club 420s are larger dinghies with two sails, a mainsail and a jib. 420s are sailed by two people, one person (the skipper) steering the boat, and another (the crew) managing the jib and controlling weight placement. The safe and effective sailing of a 420 requires a certain combined weight in the boat, so for small, light sailors Optis are more appropriate and better vehicles for learning. 420s are among the boats commonly used on high school and college sailing teams.

The Bulls Eye, used in both youth & adult sailing classes, is well suited for both an evening sail as well as competitive one-design racing. The boat is very stable and perfect for family racing. 

Q:  Are there rules we should know?

  • Your child's safety is our highest priority. You will be given drop-off and pick-up procedures on the first day of class; please follow these procedures and avoid allowing children to walk in the parking lot. Please pick your child up promptly.

  • Life jackets that are appropriate for sailing and properly sized are required at all times on dock, floats and boats. Life jackets must have waterproof whistles attached by a short tether (whistles are available for purchase from the Club Store).

  • Closed toed shoes, please. No bare feet or flipflops are permitted.

  • Every child must pass a swim test on the first day of class.

  • Safe behavior on docks, floats and boats is required: no pushing or rough play will be tolerated.

 Q: What kind of clothing and equipment do we need?

Life jackets are required. Students should bring a duffel or backpack with a towel, bathing suit, change of clothing and jacket or slicker. Label all personal items! Hats and eyeglasses should be secured. Sailors must accept responsibility for lost personal items. It can be chilly on the water. Please make sure that your child has the appropriate clothing for each day, especially the day of the swim test and capsize drill.

Q: How about snacks & water?

Rowers should bring a snack and drink in a labeled, reusable container to class each day. All sailors should bring their own labeled, re-usable drink containers. It is very important to stay well-hydrated during class. Fresh water fills and re-fills are available at the sailing school. Please make sure that all snacks are nut-free.

Q: Is class held on rainy days?

Sailing class will NOT be canceled due to inclement weather! However, classes may be conducted on shore at the discretion of the Head Instructor.

Q: Are there other KSEA events?

Watch the calendar for events like the Long Island Family Picnic and Pirate Day.