This course is designed exclusively for the Jackson Park Yacht Club Foundation, only approved candidates may apply, or will be accepted.

The course is designed to be a bridge between small boat sailing, and keelboat sailing. Participants will learn the basic ins and outs of keelboat sailing, including but not limited to: Basic safety on a keelboat, basic helm control, basic sail theory and handling, parts of a keelboat focusing on the differences and how they relate to small boats. This is a hands on course, participants will be going out with an instructor to learn. As such, we are weather dependent and may not always go out. We also can not guarantee an exact return time as we are dependent on the wind, and will be operating in the open waters of Lake Michigan. We suggest you create plans with your children to accommodate such fluctuations. We will make every effort to return on time. 

Classes will be held every Wednesday from 4:30P - 8P (Weather permitting) with the exception of the last class where students will race in Jackson Park Yacht Clubs Wednesday night club race, which will begin at 7P and end around 9:30P (Class will still begin at 4:30P, just run longer to accommodate for the race.). Parents are invited to the last class to meet the students at the dock, and hear the race results. (Depending on how fast students grasp keelboat concepts, theory and skill, we may do two race days. We will keep you informed a this time approaches.)

Class WILL be canceled IF the wind is greater than 20 knots, the waves are greater than 3', or there is inclement weather. 

Students should bring the following to class:

sailing gloves, water bottle./ sports drink. Life vests will be provided.

Lastly, if you have not done so, please fill out the following waivers and either return with your child, or email them back at [email protected]