Frequently Asked Questions About the GPYC Junior Sailing Program
Do I have to be a member of GPYC to participate in Summer Sailing? No, all Summer Sailing classes are open to the public! If you are interested in the earlier enrollment, reduced pricing, and many, many other benefits of membership at GPYC, please contact membership at (313) 884-2500.
How old does my child need to be to participate? Sailors must be 5+ years old to participate in the Kinder Sailing Class.
How do I know if I am enrolled in the class? When you submit your online registration form you will immediately receive an email response from us confirming the receipt of your application. We maintain an online roster through Team Snap which is updated approximately once a day during the week, so you may check this roster to see your placement.
What kinds of sailing apparel should I have for my child? Here's our Summer Equipment List. It’s pretty much like a day at the beach!
Where can I get sailing clothes? You can get sailing clothes at, Mikes Marine or our online store GPYC Gear Store. You should be looking for clothes that offer good skin coverage and dry quickly.
What types of sunscreen and sun protection should I use? There are many sunscreens to choose from at the local pharmacy. Sailors should buy waterproof sunscreen that is SPF 30+. It is important to find a sunscreen that doesn't burn the eyes. When children sweat sunscreen will end up in their eyes. Sailors should spare no money when they are buying sunscreen. Hats, clothing with good coverage, and sunglasses are just as important. Adequate sunglasses don’t need to be expensive and there is a high chance of loss, so please do not equip small kids with sunglasses you’ll be upset about losing or breaking. Polarized lenses are a plus, but still don’t need to cost too much.
When do I need to start thinking about buying a sailboat for my child? GPYC has a large supply of excellent charter boats to fit most needs, including all beginning Sabot sailors, and most doublehanded racers. High School Sailing is popular specifically because you don’t need to own the boat!As children progress through the ranks of the Sabot Racing Fleets they may benefit from having their own boat. When sailors enter the C2/C1 fleet ranks they should be thinking about how a private boat will help their performance and finish results. Summary: you don’t need (or want?) your own Sabot to get started. By the time you do need a boat, you’ll have a good read on the used market at the Club as older kids move on.
Can I come and watch my child learn to sail? Parents are welcome to observe their child's class from a distance. History has shown that many young sailors deal with the challenges of learning to sail best without the distraction of having a parent present.
Will my child be safe if there is inclement weather? We always practice safe procedures at the GPYC Junior Sailing Program. We do not cancel class on rainy days, but may if lightning, high winds, or other hazards exist. Sailors should be prepared to sail as usual and they should be equipped with appropriate clothing. Please bring a change of clothes!
Do I have to own a boat to be in the program? No. Some classes use only club boats which are included in the class fee.
How well does my child have to swim? They need to be secure and comfortable in the water. Swim test is 75 ft swim any stroke, 2 minute tread water, and putting a life-jacket on in the water. This is done in cold, bay water (68º) with low visibility, usually at “The Race Dock” at the end of E Dock. If you or your sailor has concerns about the swim test, practice in the weeks before the program is a great idea. We ask that parents not be present for the actual swim test during the program. We will try every motivational trick we know, but don’t worry, we’ll never force a child into the water.
We live far away. Can we get in a car pool? Nothing is formally organized. We will be happy to provide you with a list of addresses. You are responsible for making contacts and arranging rides.
I lost my... ? Could you let me know if you see it? Yes, if it is clearly marked with your name and phone #. Clothes and especially life-jackets should have full name and phone # in a conspicuous place. Sailing gear should be labeled with the sail number using an etcher or die punch. You should also label your name on gear with indelible ink. Lost & Found boxes are located in the Marine Activity Center.
Can I leave my children at the Yacht Club while they are not in class? In most cases, no. Junior Members and/or Junior Courtesy Members (children of members) older than 10 may stay but will not be supervised and will be asked to leave the club if they are disruptive. Non-members and/or their children may not stay at the Yacht Club after sailing class unless they are a guest of a member who is also present. All children under the age of 10 must be accompanied by a parent member unless they are participating in sailing class.
Is there a snack bar? Yes, in the Harbor Grill by the pool. Members can use their member number. Non-members will need to leave a credit card You can also bring lunch or snacks from home. The MAC has a refrigerator.
