Yes, being a competent swimmer is a prerequisite of our sailing programs.
Yes, participants are invited to bring their own Coast Guard-approved life jackets, but we have plenty for them to use for the duration of the program.
Yes, depending on timing, if your program starts at noon or later, lunch should be eaten before the start. Always bring a snack to the program. DBMS is a nut-free program, pack a nut-free snack or lunch. If you pack nut-free butter please write a note that lets us know what it is.
All participants must wear closed-toed shoes, shoes must be worn at all times including swimming and at the beach. Examples include Crocs, old sneakers, or water shoes.
We have merged beginner and experienced course titles to ease the registration process. It will allow us to better allocate instructors to the group size of each experience level.
Learn to Race and Advanced Race Team are for the sailor who is ready to take their sailing to the next level. Participants are expected to sail in a wider variety of conditions, spend some time learning tactics in the classroom, and spend more time on the water participating in race focused drills and scrimmages.
Each day at DBMS begins with excited chatter as sailors gather, ready to dive into a mix of adventure and learning. After a warm welcome and a quick review of safety rules, the group ties knots and discusses the day’s objectives. On land, the energy builds with chalk talks, rigging practice, and lively games like Captain’s Coming. Then, it’s off to the water, where sailors hone their skills with drills, capsize practice, and thrilling games like Capture the Flag. The day wraps up with a debrief, sharing highlights and lessons learned, leaving everyone eager for the next adventure on the bay.
Things to Bring
- Bathing suit (please come with it on if possible)
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Extra sunscreen
- Rain jacket
- Warm, dry change of clothes
- Towel
- Life jacket – we have plenty on hand if you don’t bring one from home
- Nut-free snack
- Sweatshirt
- Change of clothes
- Extra pair of shoes (flip flops are fine – this is just in case we lose a pair in the mud!)