Class Descriptions:

Where to start? Level 1 is appropriate for absolute beginners or even somewhat experienced sailors who want a refresher, or for anyone who has some experience sailing other kinds of boats but not the 420 dinghies JYS uses .

Repetition: We strongly recommend repetition of classes because practice time is vitally important. Almost no one takes Level 1 just once and then goes straight to Level 2. Kids under 13 especially are discouraged from doing this. They need more than just four days on the water. Similarly, a person who has taken Level 2 once is nearly always better-off taking Level 2 again before trying Level 3. Ask your student, they're probably a good judge.

How critical is this anyway? Classes are are taught in a group setting, but we try to tailor coaching and individual instruction to each student as much as possible. Your goal in placement should be to put your child with students of similar age, maturity, and experience level. We don't want them to be bored with old material, but we also don't want kids to feel overwhelmed. Not putting kids in classes that are too advanced is more imporant than not putting kids in classes that are too easy, because practice is the most important part of this process.

Level 1 Classes
-are for youths 12-17 years old (usually 14 or under). Pairs of sailors operate their dinghy under the supervision of JYS instructors in motorized safety boats. This class focuses on fully introducing students to the mechanics of sailing and boating, with emphasis on tacking and jibing, boat-handling, and seamanship, as well as situational awareness, efficiency, and teamwork. (Drop off between 8:15 and 8:30, and pick up between 4:00 and 4:15.)

Level 2 Classes
-are for youths 12-17 years old (usually 13-15) who have graduated Level 1 or who are already experienced sailors. Most students (especially the yougest) need to take Level 1 at least twice or more before trying Level 2. This class focuses on independence, refinement of skills, windless and rudderless sailing, tips and tricks, and perhaps some Level 3 ideas and racing. (Drop off between 8:15 and 8:30, and pick up between 4:00 and 4:15.)

Level 3 Classes
-are for youths 12-17 years old (usually over 14 or 15) who have taken Level 2 at least once (twice or more is better) and who feel pretty good about their boat-handling. Most students are 13-15. This class focuses on further refinement of skills, dry-capsizing, synchronization and roll-tacking, as well as racing theory, spinnakers, and trapeze harnesses. (Drop off between 8:15 and 8:30, and pick up between 4:00 and 4:15.)

Adult Classes
-are for Adults 18 and over. They are one-day, all-day intensive courses. They are beginner classes, but coaching is tailored to the needs of students as much as possible. Parent/Guardian-and-teenager combinations are just fine. Adult classes are all-day 9:00 to 3:00, usually on a Saturday. They are not held often. Click here to learn more about adult classes.