Yes, we expect that all paddlesports participants are comfortable swimming while wearing a lifejacket. Any time a participant is on or near the water, we wear a life jacket.
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, we recommend that students bring a snack to the program. DBMS is a nut-free school, sp pack a nut-free snack.
All participants must wear closed-toed shoes, shoes must be worn at all times including swimming and on the docks. Examples include Crocs, old sneakers, or water shoes.
Students should arrive already wearing a bathing suit and with sunscreen applied. Other items to bring along include:
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Extra sunscreen
- Towel
- Life jacket – we have plenty on hand if you don’t bring one from home
- Nut-free snack
- Sweatshirt or jacket
Programs run rain or shine so please dress accordingly. If wind and water conditions are not ideal for being on the water, we will offer land based activities. It is typically colder here on the water so layers are best. Please send your child in lightweight athletic-type clothing that dries quickly. If there is rain in the forecast, please send your child with a raincoat and a change of warm clothes (towel, sweatpants, & a sweatshirt).
Our paddlesports programs launch from DBMS docks and venture out into Duxbury Bay. Most classes will travel along the shoreline depending on wind and tide conditions. In rare instances, we are unable to launch due to weather and we will transport students to another beach or dock location in the bay using our Carolina Skiff powerboats.
Students ages 6+ can pair Paddlesports with our new Marine Science Ecology program! It will be offered bi-weekly, and each class will feature a new topic. Examples of lessons include lobsters, marine mammals, invertebrates, and cartilaginous fish! Bi-weekly the options include our traditional 4 hour Marine Science class for ages. Students ages 11+ can also look for a matching Rowing program.
No, our 6-9 groups are designed for students who have already been through a year of school.
No, we are unable to bring your child back to DBMS before the end of programs. Often the participants are actively paddling far from campus and it takes significant time and resources to bring them in. We can only accommodate emergency early dismissals.
Pick-up and drop-off is in front of the rowing center. Please stay in your car at all times. We will greet your child at the car. Have participants ready to hop out of the car to help keep the line moving!
At DBMS, our goal is to make your child’s program experience a positive and educational one where they feel supported and included in daily activities. In support of this goal, is there anything we should know about your child that would help them be more successful in their program at DBMS? Please give us a call at (781) 934-7555.