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Sailing School

 

 

The WDYC Sailing Program is designed to meet the needs of all of those (young and old) that have the desire to sail, enhance their sailing skills to a new level and to enjoy the fun, competition, friendship and camaraderie that comes from belonging to one of the finest sailing programs on Cape Cod.

 

For further information, contact the WDYC Sailing School at 508-760-9933 or contact the West Dennis Yacht Club at 508-398-9757 or sailingdirector@wdyc.org.

 

Mission Statement:

The West Dennis Yacht Club Junior & Adult Sailing Program seeks to instill in its students the joys and skills of sailing by providing quality instruction, information, safety and encouragement at all levels. Students who complete all levels of the program will understand the fundamentals of sailing theory, demonstrate proficiency in handling a small sailboat in various conditions including the fun of racing and be aware of the safety issues surrounding boating.

 

Classes:

The sailing program has many different classes suited for each age and ability level.  If you are unsure which class is best for your child, please speak with one of the instructors.

 

Click to download a copy of the 2008 Sailing Brochure, 2008 Sailing School Information and Registration packet, 2008 Parent Handbook, Medical Form, or Adult Sailing Information  packet.

 

Program Overview:

The West Dennis Sailing Program offers a variety of sailing classes.  There are classes designed for all age ranges and abilities.  The program uses mainly Optimist dinghies, Club 420’s, and Capri’s for instructions.

The program’s main goals are threefold.  The first, and most important, that we provide a SAFE environment to help students abilities grow unhindered by fear.  In order to provide this safe environment, the club hires excellent veteran instructors who have demonstrated this quality. Our second goal is that students continue to improve their abilities throughout the summer, and be assessed on selected criteria that demonstrate their growth. No program would be complete without our last goal (the most important to the students), which is having FUN!!!  In order to accomplish this goal, the program uses interactive games that help reinforce the objectives being taught.

As a community based program, it's important that we provide the best quality instruction, at an affordable cost, in order to make a memorable experience for everyone.

Adult lessons are also available for all levels.

 

Class Descriptions:

WDYC Pre Sailor: Offers children ages 5 to 8 a well-rounded experience that emphasizes safety, fun, and a love of sailing. Sailors are taught by professional instructors and longtime sailing enthusiasts. WDYC Pre Sailor maintains a low ratio of sailors to instructors, which will enhance your child's learning and development. Pre Sailor session is limited to 10 students.  (Includes lunch)

Beginner Opti: This class is designed for children between the ages of 5 and 12.  This is an introductory class that seeks to get them comfortable with boats and terminology. They will utilize various boats ranging from Knockabouts to Prams. Seamanship and learning based games are strongly stressed.

Intermediate Opti: For children at least 9 years old who will sail Optimists.  This class is where they learn the basics to sailing. Becoming comfortable with skippering, crewing, knot tying, rigging, basic rules of ways and safety are just some of what will be taught. (Must own an Opti)

Opti Advanced: This course builds on what sailors have learned in the Intermediate Optimist group, and will enhance their skills using the Optimist to become more comfortable sailors. (Must own an Opti)

420 Beginner: For older children at least 12 years old who will sail mainly 420s.  This class will cover the basics to sailing along with skippering, crewing, knot tying, rigging, basic rules of ways, and safety.

420 Int.: This course builds on what sailors have learned in the Optimist groups and 420 Beginner group. Sailors will sharpen their skills with advanced drills and enhance their knowledge of right of way rules, spinnaker/trapeze, and navigation.

Race Team B: This class is offered in either the Optimist or 420.  This is where sailors sharpen their boat handling and are introduced to racing tactics.  Here they will learn the basics of racing and improve their knowledge of racing rules.

Race Team A: This class is offered in either the Optimist or 420.  Sailors will be assigned to the WDYC Race Team A according to ability. Entrance into this level is only per the sailing director. Sailors must sign up for Race Team B

Adult Basic Night: This is for the older sailor, where they will learn the basics to sailing 420’s and Capri’s.  They will become comfortable with all the components basic to sailing.