Accessible Paddle Sports
In response to the popularity of our accessible sailing program, ACCESSAIL, the Duxbury Bay Maritime School is proud to offer supportive and adaptive paddlesports. With the support of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, we are able to expand this offering this coming summer to help all explore Duxbury Bay this summer and fall.
Adaptive & Supportive Kayaking (Tuesdays 3-4:30)
This program provides a supportive environment for kayakers ages 15+ and their caregivers or families (if needed or desired) to experience the peacefulness of Duxbury Bay while learning the fundamentals of paddlesports. Past participants have had developmental disabilities, Autism, or some mobility challenges. With an instructor-to-student ratio of 1:3 students must be able to transfer into a kayak on a dock with minimal support. Students must possess adequate trunk support and be comfortable paddling independently or in a double kayak with a caregiver. DBMS is committed to providing access to paddlesports for all, so new this spring, we have more adaptive equipment including lighter paddles, supportive seating adjustments, and a kayak launcher. To inquire about specific equipment or if this program is a good fit, contact peter@dbms.org.
Senior Supportive Kayaking (Wednesdays 3-4:30)
This program provides a supportive environment for seniors to explore Duxbury Bay on a kayak and learn the fundamentals of paddlesports. Class sizes are small, with 6 students and 2 instructors. Participants have access to supportive equipment such as lightweight paddles, transfer boards and a kayak launcher to ease getting onto the water, and supportive seating. Participants must be able to transfer into a kayak with assistance, sit with a supportive seat, and paddle independently or in a double kayak with a caregiver. Senior centers or groups of seniors are welcome to sign up for a 6-person class. Please contact peter@dbms.org to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our campus is entirely ADA compliant. We have accessible restrooms and changing areas. We have two handicapped accessible parking spots suitable for Vans or small buses.
Yes! Our dock is equipped with a hoyer lift and optional seats equipped with 5 point harnesses. To request a 5 point harness and seat for any participant, please see the email you received after booking.
To keep ACCESSAIL’S safety standards at their highest level and provide the maximum comfort level to our students, ACCESSAIL insists on the following Student to Aid Ratios. See ACCESSAIL “Student to Aid Minimum Ratios” details below for ratio details!
Click the button above to choose a date and time to sail. After booking, be sure to check your email for a form, this form will allow you to include any specific accommodations you may need!
No, safety is our number one priority. Wind over 20 knots, lightning, and other unpredictable conditions may cause us to cancel. A DBMS staff member will contact you via telephone with as much notice as possible in the event of a cancellation.
No, each boat will be sailed by two trained staff members. Aids, Parents and Friends are welcome to join us on board if spaces allow. Reserve a seat to be sure there is space! Remember, each boat accommodates 6 guests.