Adaptive Sailing (formally Accessail) offers free 90-minute sails throughout the spring, summer, and fall, inviting everyone to experience the beauty of Duxbury Bay. Our fully accessible campus features a dock equipped with a Hoyer lift and boats with 5-point harness seats for trunk support, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
This inclusive program provides a chance to soak up the sun, build connections, and learn the basics of sailing. It also fosters a spirit of competition and a sense of freedom for individuals with disabilities, including Autism, Down Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy, Paraplegia, Quadriplegia, Blindness, and more.
Recognized by US Sailing with the “Outstanding Program for Disabled Sailors” award, we are committed to serving as many participants as we are able to. Join us to bond with nature, have fun, and discover the joy of sailing.
What To Bring
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from glare and enjoy the view!
- Hat: Keep the sun off your head—like a baseball cap, wide-brimmed hat, or warm beanie for cooler weather.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, regardless of the season.
- Extra Sunscreen: UV rays are strong year-round, even on overcast days.
- Layers and/or Rain Jacket: Be prepared for any conditions—dressing for the weather makes even sailing in the rain enjoyable!
- Towel: Handy for drying off, sitting on, or staying comfortable.
- Nut-Free Snacks: Great for an energy boost and allergy-friendly.
- Optional Life Jacket: We have lightweight life jackets available, but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
- Optional Hoyer Lift Sling: Not necessary, as we have slings available, but feel free to bring yours for convenience.
Student-to-Aid Minimum Ratios
To ensure the highest safety standards and maximum comfort for our participants, adaptive sailing adheres to the following Student-to-Aid ratios:
- Wheelchair Participant: One participant per one capable aid. A capable aid is someone who can provide significant assistance in moving the participant into and out of the sailboat.
- Mobile Student: Two students per one aid. A mobile student is someone who requires minimal assistance to get into and out of the sailboat.
FAQ
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 adaptive sailing’s safety standards at their highest level and provide the maximum comfort level to our students, adaptive sailing insists on the following Student to Aid Ratios. See adaptive sailing “Student to Aid Minimum Ratios” details above for ratio details!
Click the season above to choose a date and time to sail. In the form you will be able to include any specific accommodations you may need! Please include any caregivers in your registration so we have an accurate headcount for space on the boat.
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.
Each boat typically accommodates 6 people and is operated by two trained staff members. Depending on the size of the participants and whether harness seats are needed, we may be able to accommodate up to 8 people. Aides, parents, and friends are welcome to join you, as space allows. Please be sure to reserve a spot for anyone who plans to accompany you so we can plan accordingly.
Our registration is open to individuals and groups so we can fill each boat. You may be sailing alongside participants from other families or organizations, and a private sail is not guaranteed. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive experience for everyone on board!