Learn to Sail ,Recreational Sailing & Home School Sailing

Learn to Sail Programs with SYS
Sarasota Youth Sailing is excited to announce our Learn to sail and Recreational Sailing Programs.

These programs were created with children ages 6-15 in mind who would like to learn to sail at their own pace, without the competition of race teams.

Questions? Call or TEXT 941.504.4236

Learn to Sail (Opti 1)

Join Sarasota Youth Sailing coaches for Sunday morning introductory Optimist sailing lessons!

This course is geared towards youth sailors ages 6-12 who are interested in learning the basics of Optimist sailing, and are perhaps interested in joining our Green Fleet Race Team in the future!

Time: This 2 week class taking place Sunday morning from 9am-12pm.

Spring 2026 DATES : Feb 22-April 19 (no class March 1, 29 and April 5)

Time: This 6 week class taking place Sunday morning from 9am-12pm that can also be taken in 2 week sessions.

Session A – Feb 22 & March 8

Session B – March 15 & March 22 

Session C – April 12 & April 19

Cost: $120 for a 2 week session. A one day “drop In” rate $70.

Register for Learn To Sail

No regattas fees or additional fees, charter included.

Each class registration has a minimum of 4.  If we have less the minimum sailors registered, we reserve the right to cancel class.

What to bring: Please wear clothes or swim gear that you can get wet, a change of clothes, closed toed shoes that will protect your feet from rocks, sun protection (sunblock, hat, sunglasses, sun protective hooded or long sleeved shirt if possible), life jacket, refillable water bottle with a clip or hook to attach to your boat.

Questions? Call or TEXT 941.504.4236

Recreational Sailing
​The Recreational Sailing Program offers a fun and unique opportunity for sailors to explore the water at their own pace.
Participants will have fun learning and sailing recreationally on the skiffs and more boats. The participants will sail on RS Zests and possibly be introduced to other boats (c420, Waves, and optis).
This program offering is geared towards recreational youth sailors who are interested in learning about the sport of sailing and our marine waters without the competition of race teams.

Cost:

$420 for 6 week session

Each class registration has a minimum of 4.  If we have less the minimum sailors registered, we reserve the right to cancel class.

Student Age Recommendation:

4th – 9th Grade in school

(please reach out with age or experience level questions)

Sundays 1pm-4pm

6 week session

Spring 2026 DATES:

February 22-April 19 (No class March 1, 29, and April 5)

Time: This is a 6 week class.

Register for Rec Sailing

No regattas fees or additional fees, charter included.

What to bring:

Please wear clothes or swim gear that you can get wet, a change of clothes, closed toed shoes that will protect your feet from rocks, sun protection (sunblock, hat, sunglasses, sun protective hooded or long sleeved shirt if possible), life jacket, refillable water bottle with a clip or hook to attach to your boat.

Questions? Call or TEXT 941.504.4236

 

Home School Sailing

Our Home School Sailing Program will continue this spring season.  Using the RS Zests (and similar boats) this program will teach both beginner and intermediate levels of sailing.  We strive to help students reach their goals, weather it be learning to sail as a beginner, build confidence on the water, or even joining a a race team.  The SYS Home School Program offers a unique opportunity to learn hands on in beautiful Sarasota Bay.

Students will learn;

  • Water and Boat Safety
  • Wind Conditions
  • Knot Tying
  • Boat Rigging
  • Sailing Lingo and Tactics

Classes will be held on the water and in the classroom.  This is a great way to make friends, practice teamwork, and build independence.

This will be a 6 week course. Classes will be held every Wednesdays from 9:30am-12:30pm.

Course dates for spring 2026:

February 25-April 1

Recommended ages 8-14.

Cost: $360 for the 6 week session

Register for Homeschool Sailing

Each class registration has a minimum of 4.  If we have less the minimum sailors registered, we reserve the right to cancel class.

What to bring: Please wear clothes or swim gear that you can get wet, a change of clothes, closed toed shoes that will protect your feet from rocks, sun protection (sunblock, hat, sunglasses, sun protective hooded or long sleeved shirt if possible), life jacket, refillable water bottle with a clip or hook to attach to your boat.

Parking: You may drop off your sailor at Sarasota Youth Sailing, but parking inside the club is reserved for Sarasota Sailing Squadron members. Memberships are always avaialble and recommended for parents.