Adaptive Sailing!

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.

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.

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)!

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!

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

• Greeters and escorts
• Hansa Access Dinghy Riggers
• 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! 

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.

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.