JPYC SAILING SCHOOL
The Jackson Park Yacht Club Sailing School (JPYC Sailing School) is an Illinois nonprofit corporation whose purpose is to provide the outreach, education, training, support and resources necessary to engage young people in boating and other activities on and around the water, including non-traditional participants in boating activities. The JPYC Sailing School is the non-profit affiliate of the Jackson Park Yacht Club (JPYC).
Junior Sailing Programs
The JPYC Sailing School offers multiple programs throughout the summer for both member and non-member children. The classes are held in two-week sessions (Monday through Friday from 9AM – 3:30PM) during June, July, and August.
Students receive both classroom and on-the-water instruction. Classes are taught by US Sailing certified instructors and US Sailing REACH/Stem instructors. Instruction is completed on 420s, Bugs and/or RS Feva XL sailboats.
Students perform a sailing demonstration at the end of each session, wherein parents can take photographs and videos of their junior sailors. The demonstration is followed by an awards ceremony and dinner, which can be purchased at an additional cost (financial assistance available if needed).
Youth classes are geared to the students’ different sailing abilities and interests. Please note that the JPYC Sailing School reserves the right to select the appropriate class level in order to ensure that children are in the best level for their age, size and experience.
Due to COVID-19 and social distancing requirements, if inclement weather, classes may be cancelled.
Participation Requirements
- Swim Check: Swimming is recommended, but not required. However, all students must be comfortable in the water. Instructors conduct a swim check on the first day of class. The swim check requires that each child be able to swim 50 feet fully clothed with a life jacket on and then tread water. Bring a towel and a change of clothes to every class. Please note that the Chicago Park District offers affordable swimming lessons.
- Life Jackets: All students must wear a US Coast Guard Approved Type III Vest PFD (Life Jacket) at all times. We provide the life jackets. However, you may purchase one for your child to wear if you would like.
- Bring to Class Every Day: Closed Toed Shoes, Sunscreen, Suitable Sailing Attire, Change of Dry Clothes and Lunch
Please click on the sailing program below to expand and learn more.
JUNIOR PROGRAM
A 2-week sailing camp taught by US Sailing certified instructors and US Sailing REACH/Stem instructors. Students of all levels receive both classroom and on-the-water instruction.
Ages: 8 -18
2025 Session Dates:
Monday – Friday — 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
Session 1: June 16th – June 27th
Session 2: July 7th – July 18th
Session 3: July 21st – Aug 1st
Session 4: Aug 4th – Aug 15th
Cost:
JPYC Members $425 per session
Non-JPYC Members $525 per session
Discounts: A 10% discount is available for enrolling: (1) two siblings in the same session, (2) enrolling the same child in multiple sessions, or (3) both of the above (siblings/multiple sessions).
Become a JPYC member for discounts on youth sailing programs. Join now.