Junior Summer Programs
Hands-on learning, sailing, science, and adventure on the water
Still Looking for a Last-Minute Summer Camp Adventure?
Limited summer camp spaces are still available at The WaterFront Center!
CHOOSE YOUR SUMMER PROGRAM
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Marine Explorers Camp
Full day | 9am – 4pm
This camp blends marine education and sailing into a full waterfront adventure. Campers rotate through hands-on sailing, science, and outdoor exploration.
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Marine Education Programs
Grades 1 & 2: Half day
Grades 3 - 12: Full dayThematic learning, enriched by stories, crafts, and outdoor exploration, focuses on marine life with activities including seining and STEM programs.
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Sailing Programs
Full day & Half day
Sessions are tailored for beginner to advanced sailors. Programs focus on skill development, confidence, and fun on the water. -
Fishing Camp
8:30am – 2:30pm
Learn to fish, practice catch-and-release techniques, and explore the marine environment aboard the historic Ida May. -
Pond Yacht Woodworking
Half day | 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 4pm
Use hand tools to design and build a wooden model sailboat while learning craftsmanship and maritime tradition.
More Information
SKILLS CAMPERS BUILD
Across all programs, campers develop:
Confidence on and around the water
Teamwork and communication
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Environmental awareness and stewardship
Scientific observation and data collection
Independence and resilience
HOW OUR SUMMER PROGRAMS WORK
Junior Summer Programs offer age-appropriate, outdoor learning experiences for children and teens ages 6–18. Programs combine marine science, sailing, STEM exploration, and environmental stewardship in a fun, supportive waterfront setting.
What families should know:
Programs run Monday–Friday
Camps are offered as two-week sessions, except for the first session and some specialty programs, which are one-week programs.
Activities are adapted for weather and group needs
Campers bring a packed lunch unless otherwise noted
WHO OUR PROGRAMS ARE FOR
Our Junior Summer Programs are ideal for children who:
Enjoy being outdoors and learning by doing
Are curious about the ocean, sailboats, and nature
Thrive in hands-on, experiential learning environments
Are beginners or experienced sailors — no prior experience required for most programs
Programs are grouped by age to ensure activities are developmentally appropriate, confidence-building, and fun.
WHICH SAILING PROGRAM FITS MY CHILD?
Discover Sailing
Ages: 6–7
Boat Type: Sonars
Best for: First-time sailors
Discover Sailing offers a gentle introduction to sailing in a supportive, instructor-led environment. Campers sail on Sonars (Keelboats), building comfort, confidence, and familiarity on the water.
Opti Sailing
Ages: 8–12
Boat Type: Dinghy (Optimist)
Best for: Campers learning sailing techniques and rules
Opti Sailing focuses on foundational sailing skills. Campers sail independently in one-person boats while learning steering, sail trim, points of sail, and basic sailing rules.
Beginner Sailing
Ages: 8–16
Boat Type: Opti Sailing, Adventure Sailing, or C420 Open
Best for: Campers learning sailing techniques and rules
Our brand new Beginner Sailing class is the perfect introduction for sailors ages 8-16 who are just starting out this Summer. With small class sizes and an emphasis on fun, this program helps sailors build confidence on the water while learning the basics of sailing aboard several types of boats, including Optis, Fevas, and Sonars.
Adventure Sailing
Ages: 12–18
Boat Type: Hobie Wave & Hobie Getaway
Best for: Campers who enjoy teamwork and an adventurous sailing experience
Adventure Sailing emphasizes group sailing and shared responsibility. Campers work together on Hobie catamarans in a fun, fast-paced environment that builds teamwork and confidence on the water.
C420 Open
Ages: 12–18
Boat Type: Dinghy (Club 420)
Best for: Older campers who are new to sailing or those with prior experience
C420 Open focuses on sailing techniques, rules, and teamwork. Campers sail in pairs, rotating between skipper and crew, and develop more advanced boat-handling skills.
Sailing Race Teams
Race Teams are designed for experienced young sailors who are ready for a competitive, full-day training environment focused on advanced boat handling, strategy, teamwork, and regatta preparation.
Parent Tip
If your child is new to sailing, Discover Sailing or Opti Sailing are great places to start.
If your child is ready for team-based sailing or starting at an older age, Adventure Sailing or C420 Open may be the best fit.
2026 Summer Program Schedule & Tuition
Programs are offered in weekly or two-week sessions, depending on program type. Session 1 is a one-week session. Sessions 2–4 are two-week sessions unless otherwise noted.
2026 Summer Program Discounts
New for Summer 2026! Discounts apply to select programs and are automatically applied at checkout. No discount codes required.
Multi-Session Discount (Per Child)
Available for Full Day Marine Explorers, Marine Education, and Fishing Programs.
- 5% off when a child is registered for 2 sessions
- 10% off when a child is registered for 3 sessions
- 15% off when a child is registered for 4 sessions Best Value
Full-Day AM + PM Discount
Available when registering for Bay Buccaneers / Discover Sailing AM + Bay Buccaneers PM
(full-day combination).
$50 off for Session 1 | $100 off for Sessions 2–4
Full Summer Race Team Discount
$600 off when registering for Session 1 and Session 2 of a Race Team.
Important Notes:
• Sibling discounts are not available.
• Discounts cannot be combined. The greatest eligible discount will be applied.
Not eligible for discounts: Half Day Sailing and Pond Yacht Programs.
Full-Day Camps | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Full-day programs are immersive, hands-on waterfront experiences. Dates are grouped for easier planning.
Marine Explorers (Full Day • Marine Education & Sailing)
Multi-session discounts apply when registering for 2–4 sessions.
Session 2: July 6 – July 17 (2 weeks)
Session 3: July 20 – July 31 (2 weeks)
Session 4: August 3 – August 14 (2 weeks)
$1,700 (Sessions 2–4)
Marine Education Program (Full Day • No Sailing)
Multi-session discounts apply when registering for 2–4 sessions.
Session 2: July 6 – July 17 (2 weeks)
Session 3: July 20 – July 31 (2 weeks)
Session 4: August 3 – August 14 (2 weeks)
$1,700 (Sessions 2–4)
Half-Day Programs
Half-day options available: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Marine Explorers (Half Day • Marine Education & Sailing Options)
Half-day marine science (AM or PM)
Session 2: July 6 – July 17 (2 weeks)
Session 3: July 20 – July 31 (2 weeks)
Session 4: August 3 – August 14 (2 weeks)
$900 (Sessions 2–4)
Enroll in both AM + PM to create a full day of Bay Buccaneers or AM Discover Sailing and PM Bay Buccaneers for a full-day experience. Full-day AM + PM discount available. Applied automatically at checkout (no codes).
Session 2: July 6 – July 17 (2 weeks)
Session 3: July 20 – July 31 (2 weeks)
Session 4: August 3 – August 14 (2 weeks)
$1,700 (Sessions 2–4)
Sailing Program (Half Day)
This program is not eligible for summer discounts.
Half-day sailing (AM or PM)
Session 2: July 6 – July 17 (2 weeks)
Session 3: July 20 – July 31 (2 weeks)
Session 4: August 3 – August 14 (2 weeks)
$900 (Sessions 2–4)
Half-day Opti sailing (AM or PM). Enroll in both AM + PM to create a full day. This program is not eligible for summer discounts.
Session 2: July 6 – July 17 (2 weeks)
Session 3: July 20 – July 31 (2 weeks)
Session 4: August 3 – August 14 (2 weeks)
$900 (Sessions 2–4)
Sailing Teams | Full-Day Training
Season-based programs for experienced sailors. Participation requires prior sailing experience and instructor approval.
Session 2: July 20 – August 14 (4 weeks)
$2,500 (4-week session)
$3,800 for both sessions
Session 2: July 20 – August 14 (4 weeks)
$2,500 (4-week session)
$3,800 for both sessions
Reel Explorers Fishing Camp | 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM
One-week sessions focused on fishing skills, marine ecosystems, and stewardship.
Multi-session discounts apply when registering for 2–4 sessions.
Session 2: July 27 – July 31
All Ages: August 24 – August 28
Session 2: August 10 – August 14
All Ages: August 24 – August 28
Build a Pond Yacht (Woodworking) | Half-Day
A hands-on woodworking program where campers build a model sailboat using hand tools and traditional techniques.
This program is not eligible for summer discounts.
MARINE EXPLORERS CAMP
Full-Day: 9am - 4pm | Extended Day Options Available: 8:30am - 9am, 4p - 5pm
Program: Session 1 (1-week) | Sessions 2–4 (2-weeks)
A full-day blend of marine science, sailing, ecology, and hands-on exploration.
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Sailing: Campers will sail, steer, and explore the harbor aboard WaterFront Center sailboats including Optis, C420s, and Hobies.
Highlights:
Sailing fundamentals
Kayaking and harbor exploration
Themed Hands-on marine science activities
Explore local habitats, marine ecosystems, and STEM based projects.
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Sailing: Campers will sail, steer, and explore the harbor aboard WaterFront Center sailboats including Optis, and Hobie Catamarans.
Highlights:
Marine ecology projects
STEM-based waterfront challenges
Team activities foster an appreciation for the natural world while encouraging new friendships, teamwork, and skill-building.
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Sailing: Campers will sail, steer, and explore the harbor aboard WaterFront Center sailboats including Optis, C420s, and Hobies.
Highlights:
Advanced marine science and chemistry
Sailing, fishing, dredging
Data collection and field research
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Sailing: Campers will sail, steer, and explore the harbor aboard WaterFront Center sailboats including Keelboat Sailing, C420, and Hobies.
Highlights:
Mariners explore the estuary on kayaks and SUPs and discover new frontiers with underwater ROVs.
Oceanography and Marine Biology Lessons
Field Studies and Research Topic discussions
SESSION THEMES
Each week features new themes based on the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy. Sessions are designed as complete learning experiences. Campers enroll for the full session to allow learning to build in depth and complexity.
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Dates: June 29 – July 3
Learn about the ocean as Earth’s most defining feature. Campers explore freshwater vs. saltwater, density, glaciers, and the water cycle through hands-on STEM investigations.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Water properties and density
Freshwater vs. saltwater systems
The water cycle and climate connections
Glaciers, sea level change, and Earth formations
Hands-On Experiences
Water density experiments
Water cycle and watershed activities
Water cycle diorama projects
Temperature and density challenges
Best for campers who enjoy: experiments, exploration, and hands-on discovery
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Dates: July 6 – July 17
This two-week session blends coastal geology with weather and climate science. Campers investigate erosion, tides, storms, and renewable energy while exploring Long Island’s beaches.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Coastal erosion and landforms
Weather systems and climate change
Renewable energy and human impact
Hands-On Experiences
Beach walks & sediment studies
Dam and coastline engineering
Hurricanes in a bottle
Wind turbines & renewable energy
Ocean currents & climate models
Best for campers who enjoy: building, problem-solving, and environmental science
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Dates: July 20 – July 31
From plankton to sharks, campers explore marine life, food webs, and habitats. This session includes an extended celebration of Shark Week with immersive science activities.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Marine biodiversity and food webs
Plankton, habitats, and ecosystems
Shark science and conservation
Signature Activities
Plankton tows & microscopes
Species identification
Shark science labs & fossils
Coral reefs & estuaries
ROVs, dissections, and ecosystem design (older groups)
Best for campers who enjoy: animals, biology, and discovery-based learning
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Dates: August 3 – August 14
Campers explore how humans interact with the ocean before diving deep into the mysteries of the seafloor. From conservation to deep-sea exploration, this session inspires stewardship and curiosity.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Human impacts on ocean health
Conservation and sustainability
Deep-sea science and exploration
Exploration Highlights
Water quality & microplastics
Fisheries and conservation science
ROV building & testing
Bioluminescence & deep-sea adaptations
Navigation, sampling, and ocean chemistry
Best for campers who enjoy: engineering challenges, exploration, and advanced science
A DAY AT CAMP
While each Marine Explorers Camp session is tailored to campers' age and activities, a typical full-day camp schedule includes:
Morning check-in and icebreaker activities
On-the-water sailing time, where campers sail on program-appropriate boats such as C420s, Optis, Sonars, or Hobies, learning to work as skippers (captains) or crew
Lunch and supervised free time (Lunch is not provided; campers should bring a packed lunch each day.)
Hands-on marine science or STEM exploration connected to the marine environment
Afternoon-themed activities, projects, or team challenges
Reflection, cleanup, and dismissal
Schedules are intentionally flexible and may be adjusted based on weather, tides, safety considerations, and group needs to ensure the best possible experience on and off the water.
New for 2026
MARINE EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Grades 1 & 2: Half-day | Grades 3 - 12: Full-Day
Program: Session 1 (1-week) | Sessions 2–4 (2-weeks)
What’s the difference between Marine Education Programs (Summer) and Marine Explorers Camp?
The main difference is how the day is structured and the depth of sailing instruction.
Marine Education Programs (Summer) are a full-day educational experience. Campers spend the day engaged in thematic marine learning, enriched through stories, crafts, outdoor exploration, seining, and hands-on marine science and STEM activities.
Campers may also spend time kayaking and take a trip per session aboard one of our historic vessels, weather and schedule permitting.Marine Explorers Camp offers a balanced sailing-and-science camp experience. Campers spend half the day on the water sailing and half the day on land.
While sailing, campers learn to work as a team as skippers (captains) or crew, sailing on vessels such as C420s, Optis, Sonars, and Hobies, building real sailing skills and confidence on the water.
The land-based portion of the day focuses on hands-on marine science or STEM exploration.
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Half-Day Options:
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM – 4:00 PMExtended Hours Available:
Early Drop-Off: 8:30 – 9:00 AM or 12:30 – 1:00 PM
Late Pick-Up: 12:00 – 1:00 PM or 4:00 – 5:00 PM
Program Description
Bay Buccaneers discover and explore beach habitats while meeting marine animals and developing an awareness of the coastal ecosystem around them. Each week features new themes inspired by the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy, encouraging curiosity and environmental stewardship.
Through thematic, hands-on learning enhanced by stories, crafts, and outdoor exploration, campers dive into marine life and coastal science. Activities may include seining, marine scavenger hunts, and age-appropriate STEM-based programs.
Each session also includes a special sailing experience aboard Christeen, our historic oyster sloop, or the oyster dredge Ida May, giving campers a unique connection to our maritime heritage.
Program Pairing Option:
PM Bay Buccaneers may be combined with AM Discover Sailing or AM Bay Buccaneers. Activities differ between morning and afternoon sessions, so campers enjoy a varied experience. -
Program Description
Sound Swashbucklers explore the estuary by kayak while engaging with marine animals and building a deeper understanding of the coastal ecosystem. Each week features new themes inspired by the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy, fostering curiosity, confidence, and environmental awareness.
Through hands-on, outdoor learning, campers take part in STEM-based activities that may include water quality investigations, alternative energy exploration, and windmill blade building, all designed to connect science with real-world marine systems.
Each session also includes a special sailing experience, such as an oceanography sail aboard Christeen, our 1883 historic oyster sloop, or the oyster dredge Ida May, offering campers a memorable connection to Oyster Bay’s maritime history.
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Program Description
First Mates build on their scientific foundation through immersive, hands-on STEM experiences both on land and on the water. Campers explore Beekman Beach, construct and test Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), and kayak to different locations throughout Oyster Bay, expanding their understanding of local marine environments.
Each week features new themes inspired by the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy, encouraging curiosity and environmental responsibility. While sailing aboard Christeen or Ida May, First Mates learn about harbor health, water quality, and ways to keep the ecosystem clean and thriving. Activities such as dredging and plankton tows highlight the diversity of habitats within the harbor.
Games and collaborative group activities round out the experience, fostering teamwork, confidence, and a lasting appreciation for the natural world—all while having plenty of fun and building new skills.
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Program Description
Skippers gain a deeper understanding of the marine environment through hands-on experiments that dive into oceanography, marine chemistry, and wildlife ecology. Each week features new themes inspired by the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy, encouraging inquiry, critical thinking, and environmental stewardship.
Students explore new frontiers through underwater ROV investigations, paddle-based excursions, and guided research activities that build a comprehensive understanding of the estuary. Each session also includes time aboard Christeen, our historic oyster sloop, or the oyster dredge Ida May, offering real-world context and a meaningful connection to Oyster Bay’s maritime heritage.
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Program Description
Mariners explore the estuary by kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) while discovering new frontiers beneath the surface with underwater ROVs. Each week features new themes inspired by the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy, deepening campers’ understanding of marine systems and their connections.
With increased responsibility and leadership opportunities, Mariners engage in hands-on research activities and field studies that promote critical thinking, teamwork, and environmental stewardship. Each session also includes time aboard Christeen, our historic oyster sloop, or the oyster dredge Ida May, giving campers firsthand experience with Oyster Bay’s maritime heritage while expanding their understanding of the marine environment.
SESSION THEMES
Each week features new themes based on the 7 Principles of Ocean Literacy. Sessions are designed as complete learning experiences. Campers enroll for the full session to allow learning to build in depth and complexity.
-
Dates: June 29 – July 3
Learn about the ocean as Earth’s most defining feature. Campers explore freshwater vs. saltwater, density, glaciers, and the water cycle through hands-on STEM investigations.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Water properties and density
Freshwater vs. saltwater systems
The water cycle and climate connections
Glaciers, sea level change, and Earth formations
Hands-On Experiences
Water density experiments
Water cycle and watershed activities
Water cycle diorama projects
Temperature and density challenges
Best for campers who enjoy: experiments, exploration, and hands-on discovery
-
Dates: July 6 – July 17
This two-week session blends coastal geology with weather and climate science. Campers investigate erosion, tides, storms, and renewable energy while exploring Long Island’s beaches.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Coastal erosion and landforms
Weather systems and climate change
Renewable energy and human impact
Hands-On Experiences
Beach walks & sediment studies
Dam and coastline engineering
Hurricanes in a bottle
Wind turbines & renewable energy
Ocean currents & climate models
Best for campers who enjoy: building, problem-solving, and environmental science
-
Dates: July 20 – July 31
From plankton to sharks, campers explore marine life, food webs, and habitats. This session includes an extended celebration of Shark Week with immersive science activities.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Marine biodiversity and food webs
Plankton, habitats, and ecosystems
Shark science and conservation
Signature Activities
Plankton tows & microscopes
Species identification
Shark science labs & fossils
Coral reefs & estuaries
ROVs, dissections, and ecosystem design (older groups)
Best for campers who enjoy: animals, biology, and discovery-based learning
-
Dates: August 3 – August 14
Campers explore how humans interact with the ocean before diving deep into the mysteries of the seafloor. From conservation to deep-sea exploration, this session inspires stewardship and curiosity.
What Your Child Will Learn:
Human impacts on ocean health
Conservation and sustainability
Deep-sea science and exploration
Exploration Highlights
Water quality & microplastics
Fisheries and conservation science
ROV building & testing
Bioluminescence & deep-sea adaptations
Navigation, sampling, and ocean chemistry
Best for campers who enjoy: engineering challenges, exploration, and advanced science
YOUTH SAILING PROGRAMS
Half Day | 9am - 12pm or 1pm - 4pm
Opti Sailing Full Day | 9am - 4pm
Program: Session 1 (1-week) | Sessions 2–4 (2-weeks)
Program Ages, Schedule, and Details
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Description: Discover Sailing is the perfect introduction for our youngest sailors! With small class sizes and a focus on fun, this program builds confidence on the water while teaching the basics of sailing aboard Sonars (keelboats). Sailors can enroll in multiple sessions until they are ready for or have aged into Opti Sailing.
Schedule:
AM Class: 9:00am – 12:00pmProgram Pairing Option:
Can combine with Bay Buccaneers PM (Marine Education) -
Description:
Sailors are evaluated and grouped by skill level.Opti Sailing is designed for children ages 8–15, from those learning to sail through advanced Opti levels. The program builds strong foundations in safety, seamanship, and sportsmanship, with an emphasis on fun, variety, and skill development. Sailors learn capsize prevention and recovery, boating vocabulary, and core sailing skills through games and hands-on activities on the water.
Schedule:
• AM Classes: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
• PM Classes: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
• Build a full day by adding AM & PM sessions together. Activities differ between morning and afternoon sessions, so campers enjoy a varied experience. -
Our brand new Beginner Sailing class is the perfect introduction for sailors ages 8-16 who are just starting out this Summer. With small class sizes and an emphasis on fun, this program helps sailors build confidence on the water while learning the basics of sailing aboard several types of boats, including Optis, Fevas, and Sonars.
AM & PM Sessions are available. Sailors may enroll in multiple Beginner Sailing sessions until they feel ready to progress into Opti Sailing, Adventure Sailing, or C420 Open.
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Description:
Adventure Sailing teaches the fundamentals of sailing, safety on the water, and good seamanship in a casual, fun setting. This class taught on Hobie Waves and Getaways, is ideal for children who want time on the water exploring Oyster Bay Harbor while learning the fundamentals of sailing. Sailors will rotate between skippering and crewing to learn all aspects of seamanship.Schedule:
• AM Classes: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm -
Description:
This program is ideal for beginner and intermediate sailors alike. The C420 introduces the fundamentals of double-handed dinghy sailing. Participants will learn and develop their skills as both skipper and crew, providing a well-rounded sailing experience. After mastering the basics of C420 sailing, sailors will continue to refine their rigging, boat handling, and tactical skills.Each sailor may enroll in multiple sessions until they are ready to join the WFC c420 Race Team.
Schedule:
PM Classes: 1:00pm – 4:00pm
Sailing Race Teams
Full Day - Experience Required
Program Ages, Schedule, and Details
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Description:
Upon successful completion of Opti Sailing, and with the Sailing Director’s approval, sailors are ready to jump into our premier youth racing program. This program focuses on developing racing skills and techniques, which include race starts, strategy, tactics, advanced sail trim, and advanced boat handling. Sailors can advance onto our Opti Race Team and compete in the Green, White, Red, and Blue fleetsAt age 15, over 120 lbs and/or over 5ft 5in, sailors should move into the Club 420. They can either take c420 Open or jump right into the c420 Race Team.
Note: We believe that in order to train successful sailors, junior sailors should train in an Opti as long as possible. Please help us with that goal by encouraging your child to sail an Opti. The Opti is not only the largest sailing class in the world; it is the most competitive class for ages 15 and below.
Schedule:
• Full-Day Class: 9:00am - 4:00pm (Lunch period included; food not provided) -
Description:
Upon successful completion of the c420 Open and the approval of the Sailing Director, sailors can join the c420 Race Team. This program focuses on developing racing skills and techniques, including race starts, strategy, tactics, spinnaker trim, how to trapeze, and advanced boat handling. You may sign up as a team (skipper and crew) or individually. If you sign up as an individual, we will pair you with someone who meets the competitive crew weight (260-270 pounds) and your skill set. Boat ownership is not required.Schedule:
• Full-Day Class: 9:00am - 4:00pm (Lunch period included; food not provided) -
Description:
Learn to race on our J/105s, a proven blue-water racer, that is the most successful one-design keelboat class in the world. Our top coaches will take your child's competitive sailing to the next level. The J/105 is the most prolific one-design keelboat class over 30' in the USA, with over 680 boats sailing worldwide.Returning or Experienced Sailors Only Enrolled sailors need to be reviewed based on their skill level and boating experience. Registrations will not be finalized until approved by the Sailing Director/Head Coach. Refunds will be issued if the sailor can not be reassigned to a proper skill-level class.
Schedule:
• Monday: 5:00 -8:00 pm
• Wednesday: Race Night 5:00pm - Dark
• Navigation practice one extra day a week
*ATTENTION NEW SAILING PARTICIPANTS: Registration is not guaranteed. To ensure that participants are enrolled in the correct class, all entrants will be reviewed by the Sailing Director and will not be finalized until approved. Refunds will be issued if the sailor cannot be reassigned to a proper skill-level class. If you are unsure about the appropriate sailing class for your child, please give us a call.
SPECIALTY CAMP
Reel Explorers Fishing Camp
What Kids Will Learn
Fishing Skills: Bait/rig selection, presentation, how to feel a strike, hook set, and angling Porgy, Black Sea Bass, Fluke, Bluefish, Snappers, and Striped Bass.
Techniques: Bottom fishing, chumming, drift fishing, trolling, and more.
Knots & Gear: Tie basic knots and use spinning or conventional tackle like a pro.
Marine Science: Explore tides, currents, and the local ecosystem with hands-on activities like dredging.
Outdoor Smarts: Understand weather’s impact and fishery regulations for future generations.
Sailing History on the Ida May: Step aboard the Ida May, a 1925 IDA MAY oyster dredge replicated in 2023, and learn how this working boat shaped Oyster Bay’s past while mastering fishing and teamwork on its deck.
Program Ages, Dates, and Details
Ages: 8–16
Schedule: 8:30am – 2:30pm
Program: 1-week sessions
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Focus: Beginner skills with different types of gear for fishing, plus marine science.
The Ida May cruises to prime spots, where up to 12 campers hone skills on a historic boat that once worked these waters, guided by experts who know the bay and Long Island Sound inside out.
Bay Masters
Session 1: June 29 - July 3
Session 2: July 27 - 31
All Ages
Session 1: August 24 - 28
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Focus: Advanced techniques (gear, tackle, rigging) and deeper ecosystem/history lessons.
Aboard the Ida May, up to 12 teens tackle big fish on a legendary dredge, blending modern fishing with lessons from its 1925 oyster-dredging days.
Pro Casters
Session 1: July 13 - 17
Session 2: August 10 - 14
All Ages
Session 1: August 24 - 28
SPECIALTY CAMP
Pond Yacht Woodworking
Ages: 10–15
Schedule: Half-day | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Session Dates: August 10 - August 21
Two-Week Session
Use hand tools to design and build a wooden model sailboat while learning craftsmanship and maritime tradition.
What: A hands-on, 2-week, half-day program where students aged 10-15 build a wooden model sailboat using hand tools.
Where: Building J, next to The WaterFront Center—home of the historic CHRISTEEN oyster sloop and IDA MAY oyster dredge.
When: August 10 - August 21 | Half-day 9 AM - 12 PM
Who: Led by an experienced shop teacher and qualified volunteers.
Sailing Option: Combine our 2-week Introduction to Woodworking program with half-day sailing sessions for a complete summer of building and sailing.
Cost: $750 for 2 weeks, all materials included
No prior experience needed.
Dress for a workshop: closed-toe shoes, comfy clothes.
Frequently Asked Questions
For your Camp Paperwork - Your Ankored login email is the same email address connected to your Amilia registration account. If you are having trouble logging in or accessing your forms, please call us at (516) 922-7245.
Rights and Responsibilities
Rights and Responsibilities of Camp Operators
BRUCE A. BLAKEMAN
NASSAU COUNTY EXECUTIVE
Irina Gelman, DPM, MPH, PhD
Commissioner of Health
NASSAU COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
NY State Sanitary Code Subpart 7-2 requires camp operators to provide parents with any enrollment application forms the rights and responsibilities of camp operators:
o To inform you and the local health department of any incident involving your child, including serious injury, illness, or allegation of abuse.
o To screen the background and qualifications of all staff and volunteers.
o To train staff about their duties.
o To provide supervision for all campers 24 hours a day at overnight camps, and during hours of operation for day camps.
o To maintain all camp physical facilities in a safe and sanitary condition.
o To provide safe and wholesome meals.
o To develop, follow, and share approved camp safety plans.
o To provide you written notification during enrollment that:
The camp is required to be permitted to operate by Nassau County Department of Health;
The camp is required to be inspected twice yearly; and
The inspection reports and required plans concerning such camps are available for review at: 200 County Seat Drive, Mineola, New York 11501