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SCHOLASTIC
SAILING
RESOURCES

High school sailing is a demanding, fun, and challenging sport. Predominantly co-ed, sailors race around the country in fleets of identical boats. Join us for hard core racing, or even just if you're interested in an after school club experience. 

DOCKSIDE

  • What do sailors need to bring?
    Anything they need to be in, out, and on the water for the day! Essentials for all lessons: - A USCG approved life jacket - Water compatible shoes - Sunscreen - Sun protection (think sleeves, hat, and sunglasses) - Dress for the weather - Water bottle + Youth Camps: - Swim suit - Towel - Spare Clothes - Warm layers - Rain jacket or spray gear - snacks + Full Day Classes: - Bag lunch (full day courses) Never Recommended: Not recommended: Expensive electronics Toys Candy
  • Where do I park? Where do I drop-off / pick-up?
    Drop-off / Pick-up Map Limited parking is available directly adjacent to our building. For summer camps and instructional programming, most camps DO NOT drop off or pick up at our building. Adults, adaptive sailors, race students, HS students, and evening lessons may utilize this parking when available. In general, please use the gravel lot located at 1100 Eastman Lane. Classes may have specific drop off locations, including in offsite lots or directly at other nearby lakes/fishing locations. Please check your email for instructions (generally sent the Friday before your camp begins) for updated specific information.
  • What happens on rainy or stormy days?
    Rain by itself doesn’t stop us from sailing, so dress and be prepared! If we have lightning, severe wind, or inclement weather we will enact our severe weather plan or cancel class. This may include moving to tornado shelters if necessary. Our program continually monitors weather throughout the day to make sure your student is safe. WEATHER CANCELLATIONS Due to limited site capacity indoors, classes may be cancelled preemptively for days when sheltering indoors may be necessary. This decision will be made at the exclusive direction of the Executive Director. Class cancellations will be issued on the following stoplight system: 1. RED LIGHT WEATHER indicates class cancellation will be or has been made. Calls, emails, and texts will be sent to email on file. 2. YELLOW LIGHT WEATHER indicates unstable weather and only students that can be picked up within 2 hours of an unscheduled weather cancellation will be allowed to participate. Be ready for a potential RED LIGHT. 3. GREEN LIGHT WEATHER indicates there is no expected cancellation.
  • Is there a good place for me to stay and watch my child?
    Absolutely! Each class is a bit different in timing, placement, and student needs due to weather and class composition. In general, one hour before pickup is normally a great time to arrive early and watch from your car, or outside the designated site boundary. The public dock on Arlington circle is frequently the best place! Please do not interact with students or the class. Staying out of view keeps our studens on track! If you’re interested in viewing your student during class, please reach out to your instructors. Staff are happy to accommodate requests and can suggest times and places to view from that will help you see the action while minimizing any potential for distraction. Weekly we do our best to provide a flyby opportunity to see your kids sailing from the dock. Keep an eye on your email for times and locations!
  • Where is Wayzata Sailing located?
    Our instruction and sailing site is located at 456 Arlington Circle South, Wayzata, MN 55391. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 768, Wayzata, MN 55391
  • Are boats provided?
    Boats are provided for all camp and adventure classes. However, in some racing classes you may see a class split into two registration pools. For example, our Laser racing class is split into “(BYO Laser)” or “(WS Laser)”. This means a class has a sign-up for the provided boats (WS Laser) and a sign-up for those that need to provide their own (BYO Laser). If you’re passionate and progressing we always suggest that you consider purchasing your own boat. This not only speeds up your learning but opens our equipment back up for new folks!
  • Do I need to be able to swim to attend?
    Because your child will not be in or around water at any time without a properly secured life jacket, we do not require unassisted swimming skills. For sailing safety, we do require that your child be comfortable around the water and with swimming at least 40 yards in their life jacket.
  • Where do I find racing/event information?
    Information regarding the structure of events is linked fairly directly to which race class or session you're registered for! For High School programs: Dockside For Summer Race programs: Summer Dockside For Tuesday Night programs: Summer Dockside For College programs: Please contact your team leaders directly.
  • Are scholarships available?
    Scholarships are available for both outreach groups and individuals on a first come first serve basis. Please submit an application before registering and we’ll get back to you right away. We strive to make attendence possible for all our courses. Please submit an application before registering! Often we ask for a small copay to ensure scholarships are used and attended.
  • What can scholarship funds be used for?
    Scholarship funds are generally only available for covering main course fees. If you select a racing course (Like HS or summer race teams) we're happy to provide support, but we are not able to cover individual costs and entry fees to external events. We'd be happy to discuss options. Get in touch!
  • What happens on rainy or stormy days?
    Rain by itself doesn’t stop us from sailing, so dress and be prepared! If we have lightning, severe wind, or inclement weather we will enact our severe weather plan or cancel class. This may include moving to tornado shelters if necessary. Our program continually monitors weather throughout the day to make sure your student is safe. WEATHER CANCELLATIONS Due to limited site capacity indoors, classes may be cancelled preemptively for days when sheltering indoors may be necessary. This decision will be made at the exclusive direction of the Executive Director. Class cancellations will be issued on the following stoplight system: 1. RED LIGHT WEATHER indicates class cancellation will be or has been made. Calls, emails, and texts will be sent to email on file. 2. YELLOW LIGHT WEATHER indicates unstable weather and only students that can be picked up within 2 hours of an unscheduled weather cancellation will be allowed to participate. Be ready for a potential RED LIGHT. 3. GREEN LIGHT WEATHER indicates there is no expected cancellation.
  • Are PFDs provided? Do I need to Purchase my own?
    Any USCG type III PFD will work, but obviously some are better for enjoying our sport than others! Most sailors prefer sailing or kayaking oriented life jackets due to their range of motion and higher fit chest which allows sitting more comfortably. We always have life jackets available for loan, but many folks prefer to bring their own. To test your life jacket put it on and sit down at the dinner table. A comfortably fit PFD should not ride up when they sit down, and have enough room and flexibility to eat dinner with silverware. If you can’t sit at the table or eat comfortably, you’ll probably have the same frustrations in the boat! We suggest trying on a few at a local shop like Midwest Mountaineering, West Marine, or REI.
  • When are PFDs required?
    We require PFDs to be properly secured at all times when in or around the water. This includes wading, swimming, docks, powerboats, sailboats, on paddle boards, while winging/foiling, and any other activity near the water. Our only exceptions are footbridges to our site and to the island.
  • Do I need to be able to swim to attend?
    Because your child will not be in or around water at any time without a properly secured life jacket, we do not require unassisted swimming skills. For sailing safety, we do require that your child be comfortable around the water and with swimming at least 40 yards in their life jacket.
  • What certifications do staff hold?
    Wayzata Sailing is an accredited US Sailing Community Center, which means we value equity and inclusion alongside meeting a higher educational and training standard than typical sailing schools. As part of that, US Sailing requires Wayzata Sailing staff to hold instructor certifications on a wide range of teaching, instruction, sailing, safety, and powerboat skills. Our instructional staff are certified as US Sailing Level 1 Small Boat Instructors. The highest trained staff on site is currently Level 3 Small Boat Coach instructor Trainer, a certification to provide instructor training for other instructors across the state and country. In addition to instructional and powerboat skills, US Sailing requires certified staff to also have completed and maintain current SafeSport, CDC Headsup, CPR/FA, and watercraft safety certificates.
  • Are you a sailing school or a community sailing center?
    Community Sailing Centers are sailing schools that have been accredited by US Sailing (our sport’s national organizing body) for their safety and teaching standards, quality of staff and instruction, professionalism, equity and inclusion, and how the center offers access and enjoyment of sailing to the public. This includes regular Quality Assurance Assessments by US Sailing to ensure that we meet the standard. Wayzata Sailing is the only currently accredited sailing center in Minnesota, but we’re working hard with our local community to help them reach the standard as well!
  • Can my child attend a partial session?
    You’re welcome to attend as much or as little of a session as you’d like, but unfortunately Wayzata Sailing is not able to prorate our session fees or provide make up days or lessons.
  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
    Please review the documentation in your account confirmation for specific information as policies vary from class to class. Subject to availability and proper notice, we’re happy to reschedule sessions for times that work better for you and your family for a small $10 change fee to cover our accounting costs. Refunds for cancellations are available up to two weeks prior to the class start date, minus a $30 cancellation fee for to cover administrative and scheduling costs. Missed classes or sessions and late cancellations (inside of two weeks) are not subject to refunds or credits. All requests to change a registration (cancellations or session changes) must be made in writing (office@wayzatasailing.orgl). A Wayzata Sailing staff member will contact you promptly to confirm or complete the change to your record.
  • How early should we sign up?
    Many classes fill up early, if you’re looking for a specific week we recommend registering as soon as our registration opens January 1st. Some classes like group camps and adult lessons will not open for registration until Mar/Apr. You can always change your registration for a small fee if the dates do not work out later on! The best way to keep track of our sign-up dates is to register for our newsletter (usually about once or twice a month). The best way to stay abreast of openings is join our mailing list (signup is available on our contact page).
  • Is a membership required to register?
    Absolutely not! Everyone is welcome, including those needing financial assistance.
  • What ages are allowed to attend?
    We provide programming for all ages, but each program is designed around specific age ranges. Day camps are provided for students over the age of 5. Unfortunately, students under the age of 4 must attend with a parent through a private lesson. If you are outside the age range to register please consider another course or request an accomodation directly. In general, assessments of a student's behavior or maturity have little to do with determining if a student may attend outside an age range. Material, class sizing, structure, length, safety, equipment, social dynamics, and required independence are the primary determinations for our set age ranges.
  • What do sailors need to bring?
    Anything they need to be in, out, and on the water for the day! Essentials for all lessons: - A USCG approved life jacket - Water compatible shoes - Sunscreen - Sun protection (think sleeves, hat, and sunglasses) - Dress for the weather - Water bottle + Youth Camps: - Swim suit - Towel - Spare Clothes - Warm layers - Rain jacket or spray gear - snacks + Full Day Classes: - Bag lunch (full day courses) Never Recommended: Not recommended: Expensive electronics Toys Candy
  • Where do I park? Where do I drop-off / pick-up?
    Drop-off / Pick-up Map Limited parking is available directly adjacent to our building. For summer camps and instructional programming, most camps DO NOT drop off or pick up at our building. Adults, adaptive sailors, race students, HS students, and evening lessons may utilize this parking when available. In general, please use the gravel lot located at 1100 Eastman Lane. Classes may have specific drop off locations, including in offsite lots or directly at other nearby lakes/fishing locations. Please check your email for instructions (generally sent the Friday before your camp begins) for updated specific information.
  • What happens on rainy or stormy days?
    Rain by itself doesn’t stop us from sailing, so dress and be prepared! If we have lightning, severe wind, or inclement weather we will enact our severe weather plan or cancel class. This may include moving to tornado shelters if necessary. Our program continually monitors weather throughout the day to make sure your student is safe. WEATHER CANCELLATIONS Due to limited site capacity indoors, classes may be cancelled preemptively for days when sheltering indoors may be necessary. This decision will be made at the exclusive direction of the Executive Director. Class cancellations will be issued on the following stoplight system: 1. RED LIGHT WEATHER indicates class cancellation will be or has been made. Calls, emails, and texts will be sent to email on file. 2. YELLOW LIGHT WEATHER indicates unstable weather and only students that can be picked up within 2 hours of an unscheduled weather cancellation will be allowed to participate. Be ready for a potential RED LIGHT. 3. GREEN LIGHT WEATHER indicates there is no expected cancellation.
  • Is there a good place for me to stay and watch my child?
    Absolutely! Each class is a bit different in timing, placement, and student needs due to weather and class composition. In general, one hour before pickup is normally a great time to arrive early and watch from your car, or outside the designated site boundary. The public dock on Arlington circle is frequently the best place! Please do not interact with students or the class. Staying out of view keeps our studens on track! If you’re interested in viewing your student during class, please reach out to your instructors. Staff are happy to accommodate requests and can suggest times and places to view from that will help you see the action while minimizing any potential for distraction. Weekly we do our best to provide a flyby opportunity to see your kids sailing from the dock. Keep an eye on your email for times and locations!
  • Where is Wayzata Sailing located?
    Our instruction and sailing site is located at 456 Arlington Circle South, Wayzata, MN 55391. Our mailing address is P.O. Box 768, Wayzata, MN 55391
  • Are boats provided?
    Boats are provided for all camp and adventure classes. However, in some racing classes you may see a class split into two registration pools. For example, our Laser racing class is split into “(BYO Laser)” or “(WS Laser)”. This means a class has a sign-up for the provided boats (WS Laser) and a sign-up for those that need to provide their own (BYO Laser). If you’re passionate and progressing we always suggest that you consider purchasing your own boat. This not only speeds up your learning but opens our equipment back up for new folks!
  • Do I need to be able to swim to attend?
    Because your child will not be in or around water at any time without a properly secured life jacket, we do not require unassisted swimming skills. For sailing safety, we do require that your child be comfortable around the water and with swimming at least 40 yards in their life jacket.
  • Where do I find racing/event information?
    Information regarding the structure of events is linked fairly directly to which race class or session you're registered for! For High School programs: Dockside For Summer Race programs: Summer Dockside For Tuesday Night programs: Summer Dockside For College programs: Please contact your team leaders directly.
  • Are scholarships available?
    Scholarships are available for both outreach groups and individuals on a first come first serve basis. Please submit an application before registering and we’ll get back to you right away. We strive to make attendence possible for all our courses. Please submit an application before registering! Often we ask for a small copay to ensure scholarships are used and attended.
  • What can scholarship funds be used for?
    Scholarship funds are generally only available for covering main course fees. If you select a racing course (Like HS or summer race teams) we're happy to provide support, but we are not able to cover individual costs and entry fees to external events. We'd be happy to discuss options. Get in touch!
  • What happens on rainy or stormy days?
    Rain by itself doesn’t stop us from sailing, so dress and be prepared! If we have lightning, severe wind, or inclement weather we will enact our severe weather plan or cancel class. This may include moving to tornado shelters if necessary. Our program continually monitors weather throughout the day to make sure your student is safe. WEATHER CANCELLATIONS Due to limited site capacity indoors, classes may be cancelled preemptively for days when sheltering indoors may be necessary. This decision will be made at the exclusive direction of the Executive Director. Class cancellations will be issued on the following stoplight system: 1. RED LIGHT WEATHER indicates class cancellation will be or has been made. Calls, emails, and texts will be sent to email on file. 2. YELLOW LIGHT WEATHER indicates unstable weather and only students that can be picked up within 2 hours of an unscheduled weather cancellation will be allowed to participate. Be ready for a potential RED LIGHT. 3. GREEN LIGHT WEATHER indicates there is no expected cancellation.
  • Are PFDs provided? Do I need to Purchase my own?
    Any USCG type III PFD will work, but obviously some are better for enjoying our sport than others! Most sailors prefer sailing or kayaking oriented life jackets due to their range of motion and higher fit chest which allows sitting more comfortably. We always have life jackets available for loan, but many folks prefer to bring their own. To test your life jacket put it on and sit down at the dinner table. A comfortably fit PFD should not ride up when they sit down, and have enough room and flexibility to eat dinner with silverware. If you can’t sit at the table or eat comfortably, you’ll probably have the same frustrations in the boat! We suggest trying on a few at a local shop like Midwest Mountaineering, West Marine, or REI.
  • When are PFDs required?
    We require PFDs to be properly secured at all times when in or around the water. This includes wading, swimming, docks, powerboats, sailboats, on paddle boards, while winging/foiling, and any other activity near the water. Our only exceptions are footbridges to our site and to the island.
  • Do I need to be able to swim to attend?
    Because your child will not be in or around water at any time without a properly secured life jacket, we do not require unassisted swimming skills. For sailing safety, we do require that your child be comfortable around the water and with swimming at least 40 yards in their life jacket.
  • What certifications do staff hold?
    Wayzata Sailing is an accredited US Sailing Community Center, which means we value equity and inclusion alongside meeting a higher educational and training standard than typical sailing schools. As part of that, US Sailing requires Wayzata Sailing staff to hold instructor certifications on a wide range of teaching, instruction, sailing, safety, and powerboat skills. Our instructional staff are certified as US Sailing Level 1 Small Boat Instructors. The highest trained staff on site is currently Level 3 Small Boat Coach instructor Trainer, a certification to provide instructor training for other instructors across the state and country. In addition to instructional and powerboat skills, US Sailing requires certified staff to also have completed and maintain current SafeSport, CDC Headsup, CPR/FA, and watercraft safety certificates.
  • Are you a sailing school or a community sailing center?
    Community Sailing Centers are sailing schools that have been accredited by US Sailing (our sport’s national organizing body) for their safety and teaching standards, quality of staff and instruction, professionalism, equity and inclusion, and how the center offers access and enjoyment of sailing to the public. This includes regular Quality Assurance Assessments by US Sailing to ensure that we meet the standard. Wayzata Sailing is the only currently accredited sailing center in Minnesota, but we’re working hard with our local community to help them reach the standard as well!
  • Can my child attend a partial session?
    You’re welcome to attend as much or as little of a session as you’d like, but unfortunately Wayzata Sailing is not able to prorate our session fees or provide make up days or lessons.
  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
    Please review the documentation in your account confirmation for specific information as policies vary from class to class. Subject to availability and proper notice, we’re happy to reschedule sessions for times that work better for you and your family for a small $10 change fee to cover our accounting costs. Refunds for cancellations are available up to two weeks prior to the class start date, minus a $30 cancellation fee for to cover administrative and scheduling costs. Missed classes or sessions and late cancellations (inside of two weeks) are not subject to refunds or credits. All requests to change a registration (cancellations or session changes) must be made in writing (office@wayzatasailing.orgl). A Wayzata Sailing staff member will contact you promptly to confirm or complete the change to your record.
  • How early should we sign up?
    Many classes fill up early, if you’re looking for a specific week we recommend registering as soon as our registration opens January 1st. Some classes like group camps and adult lessons will not open for registration until Mar/Apr. You can always change your registration for a small fee if the dates do not work out later on! The best way to keep track of our sign-up dates is to register for our newsletter (usually about once or twice a month). The best way to stay abreast of openings is join our mailing list (signup is available on our contact page).
  • Is a membership required to register?
    Absolutely not! Everyone is welcome, including those needing financial assistance.
  • What ages are allowed to attend?
    We provide programming for all ages, but each program is designed around specific age ranges. Day camps are provided for students over the age of 5. Unfortunately, students under the age of 4 must attend with a parent through a private lesson. If you are outside the age range to register please consider another course or request an accomodation directly. In general, assessments of a student's behavior or maturity have little to do with determining if a student may attend outside an age range. Material, class sizing, structure, length, safety, equipment, social dynamics, and required independence are the primary determinations for our set age ranges.
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