Welcome to ACCESSAIL!

At DBMS, we believe in making maritime activities and learning accessible and available for all individuals. Yet for those with varying physical and/or cognitive abilities, getting into a boat may seem out of the question. That’s why we created Accessail: an educational and recreational sailing program specifically geared for those who live with varying physical and/or cognitive abilities. Since 2001, Accessail has provided access to the Bay for many who before did not have the opportunity!

FREE

1.5 hour sail in a Marshall 22′ Catboat

Available resources: Wheelchair access to boat, Hoyer Lift, 5-Point harness seats for trunk support. More information on booking for 2024 dates coming soon!

Participants have the opportunity to bond with the natural environment and gain a sense of freedom while having fun. Our program has had participants with Autism, Down Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Parapalegia, Quadriplegia, and a variety of other challenges including Blindness.

Accessail also offers the challenges of competition and the chance to be liberated from the confines of a disability. Our objective is to serve as many handicapped individuals as our boats and budget allow. US Sailing Presented Accessail with its “Outstanding Program for Disabled Sailors” award.

How it Started…

ACCESSAIL Student to Aid Minimum Ratios
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:

Wheelchair Participant: One Participant per One Capable Aid*
*Capable Aid definition is a person who has the capability to provide major assistance in moving the student into and out of the sailboat.

Mobile Student: Two Students/Aid
*Mobile Student definition is that person who has the capability of getting into and out of the sailboat with minimal assistance

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.