Our Programs
Sailing education for every age, ability, and aspiration
Program Overview
All programs are led by US Sailing certified instructors and follow rigorous safety protocols. Financial aid is available for all fee-based programs.
Youth Sailing Academy
Our flagship program introduces children ages 8-17 to the fundamentals of sailing, boat handling, water safety, and teamwork. Through a progression-based curriculum, students advance from basic boat control to independent sailing and introductory racing.
- Ages 8-17, grouped by experience level
- Summer camps (weekly, June-August)
- After-school sessions (September-May)
- Boats: Optimist, Sunfish, 420
- Student-to-instructor ratio: 6:1
- Scholarships available for qualifying families
Eligibility: Open to all youth in Collier and Lee Counties. No prior experience required. Swimming ability strongly recommended.
Adult Learn-to-Sail
It is never too late to learn. Our adult program offers beginner through advanced instruction in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Whether you dream of chartering in the Caribbean or simply want a new weekend hobby, we will get you on the water with confidence.
- Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced levels
- Weekend intensive courses (2 days)
- Evening classes (6-week sessions)
- Private and semi-private lessons available
- Coastal cruising certification preparation
- Women-only sessions offered quarterly
Eligibility: Open to adults 18+. No prior experience required for beginner courses.
Adaptive Sailing Program
Sailing is for everyone. Our adaptive program uses specialized equipment—including the Martin 16 with electronic joystick control and pontoon-supported access platforms—to provide independent sailing experiences for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities.
- Serves individuals with physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities
- Trained volunteers and medical support staff on-site
- Veterans program in partnership with VA Healthcare
- Special Olympics training pathway
- Free of charge to all participants
- Family and caregiver welcome aboard option
Eligibility: Open to individuals with documented disabilities. Medical clearance required. Caregiver attendance encouraged.
Racing & Performance Clinics
For sailors ready to compete, our racing program offers advanced boat handling, tactics, rules knowledge, and physical conditioning. The Pelican Bay Racing Team competes in local, regional, and national regattas.
- Advanced tactics and strategy workshops
- Regatta preparation and travel teams
- High School Sailing Team support
- College sailing recruitment guidance
- Guest coaching from Olympic and collegiate sailors
- Winter training series (November-March)
Eligibility: Completion of Intermediate Youth or Adult program, or instructor approval. Ages 12+ for youth team.
Upcoming Program Dates
Register early—space is limited and scholarships are awarded on a rolling basis.
Fall Youth Session
Dates: September 8 - November 14
Schedule: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:00-6:30 PM
Location: Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs, FL
Cost: $450 (scholarships available)
Adult Weekend Intensive
Dates: October 11-12
Schedule: Saturday & Sunday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs, FL
Cost: $325 (includes materials)
Adaptive Sailing Open House
Dates: November 8
Schedule: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Location: Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs, FL
Cost: Free (registration required)
Winter Racing Clinic
Dates: January 10 - February 28
Schedule: Saturdays, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Location: Bonita Bay, Bonita Springs, FL
Cost: $395 (team members $295)