Adaptive Sailing!

Access-ability Sailing Saturdays

The Access-ability program is an open house sailing event for anyone with a disability. Sailors are welcome to come to the Downtown Sailing Center (DSC) to be coached and supported by a tireless group of volunteers, friends and family. Check in starts at 9:45 am, and sailing time is from 10:00am until 12:00pm.

The DSC's docks are equipped with accessible ramps, Hoyer lifts and plenty of shaded space. This is a no-cost, volunteer-supported program that allows individuals with disabilities to experience the freedom of sailing. We provide all safety equipment, including life jackets.

Three smiling sailors wearing life jackets in the cockpit of a Sonar 23 sailboat

Therapeutic Recreation

Relax and let us do all the work! One of our experienced skippers and crew members will take your group (up to 4 people) for a fun sail around the harbor in one of our Sonar keelboats. This boat is easily adapted and boasts a roomy cockpit for comfort.

Two sailors laughing and having fun while learning to sail

Sailing Instruction

Participants who wish to get an introduction to sailing fundamentals have a chance to help our experienced skipper and crew member sail one of our Sonar keelboats. You can haul in a line or two and even take a turn at the helm (steering the boat)!

Two adaptive sailors in Hansa Dinghies strategizing before a race.

Hansa Dinghy Sailing

The Hansa 303W can hold 1-2 people and is designed specifically for adapted sailing. You may sail a Hansa on your own or bring a guest. Participants 18+ can consider joining our Hansa Racing Team! No experience necessary!

Upcoming Events

Registration opens one month before each event.

America/New_York
Volunteer Registration: Access-ability Saturday

12 Jul 2025 9:00 AM

Downtown Sailing Center "A" Dock
America/New_York
Volunteer Registration: Access-Ability Saturday Event

26 Jul 2025 9:00 AM

Downtown Sailing Center "A" Dock
America/New_York
Participant Registration: Access-Ability Saturday Event

26 Jul 2025 10:00 AM

Downtown Sailing Center "A" Dock
America/New_York
Pathfinders for Autism: Access-Ability Saturday Event

09 Aug 2025 10:00 AM

Downtown Sailing Center "A" Dock

View full calendar »

Volunteers Needed!

Our Adaptive program is supported by volunteers, and we welcome all types of help.

Greeters and escorts
Hansa Dinghy Rigging
Sonar Skippers
Sonar Crew
Safety boat operators
Hansa Adaptive Racing Committee
Hoyer lift transfer assistance (training req.)

Sailing experience is not required for greeters and escorts; just compassion, a willingness to learn, and a desire to have fun!

 Volunteer Handbook  Volunteer Background Checks

Frequently Asked Questions

When is it?
The events are held every other Saturday morning from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM. We start sailing in mid-April and events end in the Fall.

How much does it cost?
This even is free to anyone with a disability.

Are you going to ask me what my disability is?
We do not need to know what type of disability you have; however, we will ask what accommodations you believe you may need to sail with us. We want to ensure that you can safely access our docks and boats with as much support we can offer while removing potential barriers.

Who will be helping out at the sailing events?
We have an amazing team of dedicated and experienced volunteers who help get you ready with a PFD (lifejacket) and provide assistance on and off the boat. While we do conduct background checks on all volunteers, we do not require them to have CPR training.

What if I haven't sailed before?
Not to worry! Each boat has an experienced skipper and crew to handle the boat and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable time.

What if I don't like it and want to go back to land?
Don't hesitate to let your skipper know that you would like to go back!

How do I get in and out of the boat?
If you need transfer assistance, we have a team of experienced volunteers who can provide that help. We own a manual Hoyer lift at the dock for the keelboats and dinghies, or we can provide minimal manual assistance, as directed by you, or verbal instructions.

Can your volunteers provide medical assistance?
None of our volunteers are able to provide any medical assistance. If you are in need of medical assistance in any way while you are sailing with us, you will need to provide your own accommodations for this, including bringing your own caregiver. We do, however, keep an AED available for safety purposes.

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