A fun, confidence-building introduction to life on the water for our youngest sailors.

First Mates is designed for children ages 5–7 to become comfortable on boats and in the marine environment while learning the basics of sailing, safety, and seamanship.

Sailors spend time both on land and on the water, sailing with an instructor aboard and participating in engaging activities such as knots, parts of the boat, nautical crafts, beach combing, crabbing, and waterfront games. Sessions may also include kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

All water activities are weather dependent, with safety always the top priority. Participants are not required to complete a swim check for this program.

Medical Release & Liability Waiver

All First Mates must bring their own properly fitted life jacket. Life jackets are required at all times when on a boat, on the water, on the pier, and on the docks. Please be sure the life jacket fits appropriately for this summer.

We recommend labeling all gear with your child’s name.

ADDITIONALLY, CHILDREN SHOULD HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

• Life jacket
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Closed-toed boating shoes (bare feet are not permitted)
• A snack (no food is provided)
• Towel
• A change of clothes
• Layers for cool or rainy weather
• A refillable water bottle

It is often cooler on the water, and sailors will sail in light rain. Children will not sail if there are thunderstorms or if storms are within a 20-mile radius; however, classes are held regardless of weather.

To reduce plastic waste, sailors are required to bring their own water bottle. Refill stations are available in the junior room.

Cancellations made prior to June 1 will receive a refund less a $35 administrative fee. Cancellations made on or after June 1 are non-refundable.

A dynamic full-day experience combining time on the water with structured tennis instruction.

New for 2026, the Extended-Day Pilot Program offers a members-only opportunity for children ages 5–12 to enjoy a well-rounded day of sailing and tennis at CYC.

Participants begin their morning in First Mates or Beginner Sailing, building confidence and foundational skills on the water. After lunch and a waterfront activity, the group transitions to the Racquets Facility for afternoon tennis instruction. Children will have time to change before walking to the courts, accompanied and supervised by instructors throughout the transition.

On the courts, participants focus on essential fundamentals including hand–eye coordination, balance, agility, teamwork, and court awareness in a fun and encouraging environment.

This new full-day program keeps children active, engaged, and excited to learn across both sports. Space is limited as we launch this offering for the first time.

Participation in the extended-day program requires enrollment in the morning First Mates or Beginner Sailing session for the same week.

EXTENDED DAY SCHEDULE
9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Sailing at the CYC Waterfront

12:00 – 12:30 PM
Lunch at the CYC Waterfront

12:30 – 1:00 PM
Change and supervised walk to the CYC Racquets Facility

1:00 – 3:00 PM
Tennis at the CYC Racquets Facility

For Extended-Day Tennis Add-On Participants:

• Lunch (nut-free)
• Tennis whites
• Tennis shoes 

The Extended-Day Pilot Program is registered as an add-on to First Mates or Beginner Sailing.

To enroll:

1. Click the registration link for First Mates or Beginner Sailing.
2. Select your desired week.
3. Add the “Tennis Add-On” option for that same week.

Participation in the Extended-Day Program requires enrollment in the corresponding morning session for the same week.

For questions related specifically to tennis instruction or court programming, please contact:

Mike Michaud, USPTA
Director of Tennis
[email protected]