Youth Summer Programs

SailMaine offers a wide variety of programs for Junior Sailors on Casco Bay. With our fleet of four different types of sailboats, we run programs for ages 5-17. Scroll down to learn more!

If you’re a junior sailor, we can provide a path for you to become a skilled recreational sailor or racer. We offer programs to prepare you for college sailing so you can set your sights on that horizon.

Program Registration FAQ! (info on how to register online)

Summer program intro letter - packing list, drop-off info, and more!

New Registration
Returning Registration

SailMaine has scholarships to keep waterfront access affordable for everyone. We offer scholarships from $25 up to 100% coverage.

Scholarship Info

Session Dates 2026:

Portland - all programs are 2-week sessions EXCEPT Little Luffers (1-week sessions). 8 weeks total; session dates below

  • Session 1 (6/22 – 7/2) (CLOSED FRI JULY 3)

  • Session 2 (7/6 – 7/17)

  • Session 3 (7/20 – 7/31)

  • Session 4 (8/3 – 8/14)

  • Little Luffers every Monday starting 6/22 & has one bonus week, 8/17-8/21.

  • Little Luffers can only choose morning or afternoon, not both

Centerboard Yacht Club (South Portland) - All sessions are 1-week, 8 weeks total, starting June 23.

Belgrade Lakes - Belgrade Rec Dept has taken over management of their program

Class Descriptions

  • AGES 5 & 6

    This weekly class is for our youngest sailors looking to have fun on and around the water. Your child will be introduced to the basics of sailing with a focus on improving comfort and confidence in sailboats while developing respect for our marine environment. Classes will primarily be taught on our stable fleet of J/22s, giving sailors a great introduction to Casco Bay as they learn how to operate a boat. This 3-hour class meets every morning and afternoon, M-F.

    NEW: Afternoon sessions 1-4pm. Sailors can pick AM or PM, but not both. (but can mix and match: e.g. AM one week and PM another)

    One-week sessions: 9am-12pm and 1-4pm

    Session Cost: $289 (1/2 day, 1 week)

  • AGES 7-8

    This two-week class is for beginner sailors looking to take the helm. The classic Frosty is the perfect boat for your child to develop independence and confidence out on Casco Bay. This class stress safety, fun and learning! Our 3-hour morning or afternoon sessions run for two weeks so that these little sailors have plenty of time to get comfortable, learn new skills, and create friendships that can last a lifetime. Students can do morning, afternoon, or the full day

    Two-week sessions: 9:00-12:00, 1:00-4:00 or all day

    Session Cost: Full day $890
    Half day $445

  • AGES 8 TO 12 (AND 110 LBS. OR LESS)

    Optimists are small sailboats that are typically sailed solo. Our classes are designed to accommodate all ability levels and your sailor will be placed in a group that will be best fitted to their experience. Trips to local islands and Fort Gorges are highlights of the session! Classes are offered in the morning, afternoon, or full day.

    Two-week sessions: 9:00-12:00, 1:00-4:00, or all day (9:00-4:00). Monday – Friday.

    Session Cost: Full day $890
    Half day $445

  • AGES 10 – 13 (AND 110 LBS. OR LESS)

    This class is designed for experienced Opti sailors who are ready to take their skills to the race course. Participants will focus on boat handling, tactics, and racing rules as they prepare for a few local regattas.

    Prerequisite: at least two previous sessions at SailMaine or similar program and the desire to learn how to race.

    Two-week sessions: 9:00 – 4:00. Monday – Friday.

    Session Cost: Full day $890

  • AGES 10 – 14 (AND 110 LBS. OR LESS)

    This class is designed for experienced Opti sailors who are focused on racing in local regattas. Our most advanced group of Opti sailors will continue to develop their boat handling, boat speed, and tactics throughout the summer.

    Prerequisite: Must have previous race experience at SailMaine or similar program.

    Two-week sessions: 9:00 – 4:00. Monday – Friday. 2 session minimum.

    Session Cost: Full day $890

  • AGES 12 – 17 (AND OVER 100 LBS)

    Our 420 class for 12-17 year olds is designed for all ability levels. Students are put into groups with similar experience levels as they master the fundamentals of sailing. Beginners and returners welcome!

    Two-week sessions: 9:00-12:00, 1:00-4:00, or all day. Monday – Friday.

    Session Cost: Full day $890
    Half day $445

  • AGES 13 – 17 (AND OVER 100 LBS)

    This class is designed for experienced 420 sailors and former Opti racers who are ready to learn how to use trapeze harnesses, fly spinnakers, and develop their racing skills! This group will also have the option of sailing Lasers, a single handed dinghy, and to learn more advanced skills on J/22s.

    Prerequisite: at least two previous sessions at SailMaine or similar program and the desire to learn how to race.

    Two-week sessions: 9:00 – 4:00. Monday – Friday.

    Session Cost: Full day $890

  • AGES 13 – 17 (AND OVER 100 LBS)

    This class is designed for experienced racers who are focused on participating in out of state and local regattas. Our most advanced group of Club 420 sailors will continue to develop their boat handling, boat speed, and tactics throughout the summer. Sailors will travel often!

    Prerequisite: at least two previous race sessions at SailMaine or similar program and desire to compete in local and out of state regattas.

    Monday – Friday, 9:00-4:00
    2 session (4 week) minimum, ideally back-to-back session

    Session Cost: $890

  • AGES 12 – 17

    This is a class for adventurous teens who want to experience the thrill of all things nautical! Sailors will focus on navigation, boat handling, spinnaker work, and seamanship while promoting the broader knowledge of the sport. This two-week class is designed for sailors of all ability levels, will cover a wide range of topics. Full day program.

    Two-week sessions: 9:00-4:00
    Monday – Friday.

    Session Cost: Full day $890

  • AGE 15 AND UP

    This program is a perfect opportunity for junior sailors to experience teaching classes, get guided instruction using a powerboat, and practice their sailing skills throughout the summer. Apprentices are expected to support the instructors in every way possible by acting as role models, demonstrating on-water drills, and working with sailors one-on-one. This summer’s apprentices will not only learn the ins and outs of what it takes to be a sailing instructor, but will become stronger sailors, too!

    There will be 2 optional pre-season training afternoons in June. There may also be some post-season powerboat practice opportunities. Must hold a valid NASBLA certificate.

    Potential apprentices will be reached out to, after registration, and asked to submit a one-page essay on the following questions: Why do you want to join SailMaine as an apprentice? How will your skills help support staff and students?

    Prerequisites: must have previous sailing experience at SailMaine

    Four-week sessions: 9:00 – 4:00.

    Sessions 1&2 (6/26-7/21)

    Sessions 3&4 (7/24-8/18)

    Full Summer (6/26-8/18)

    All sessions require training days prior to start!

    Half Summer Cost: $300 (4 weeks)

    Full Summer: $500 (8 weeks)

  • AGES 8 – 12

    CYC in South Portland is a great option for busy summer schedules that need flexibility. CYC offers one-week sessions. Students will have fun on the water while learning the language of sailing, rigging, boat handling and steering in JY Trainers, Optimists, and the occasional J/22 keelboat!

    One week sessions: 9:00 – 12:00, 1:00 – 4:00, or all day.

    Session Cost: Full day $578
    Half day $289

  • Great Pond YC is now handling this program directly; click here for more info

    Based out of the Belgrade Center for All Seasons, Classes for beginner and intermediate sailors on Great Pond in 420s and RS Teras.