Three weeks of hands-on youth sailing at Southern Shores North Marina — from first tack to race-ready, coached by US Sailing Certified instructors.
Youth sailors are grouped by age so instruction stays relevant and fun. Both tracks run simultaneously across all three weeks, with skill level advancing each session.
Young sailors build confidence and core skills aboard the Optimist, the world's most popular youth racing dinghy. From rigging and basic boat handling in Week 1, through tacking, jibing, and points of sail in Week 2, to sailing independently and competing in Week 3.
Teens sail the 420, a high-performance two-person dinghy used in scholastic and collegiate racing nationwide. Instruction scales from first-time sailors in Week 1 through intermediate boat handling and racing tactics, culminating in preparation for the Manteo One Design Regatta.
Each week builds on the last. Register for one session or all three — every week is a complete program, and returning sailors will advance to the next skill level.
Introduction to sailing fundamentals — rigging, points of sail, tacking and jibing, water safety, and building comfort on the water. Perfect for first-time and beginner sailors.
Sailors deepen boat handling skills, learn racing concepts — start sequences, marks, and right of way — and begin informal racing. Intermediate sailors refine technique and boat speed.
Full racing preparation — tactics, starts, mark roundings, and fleet racing. Advanced sailors focus on boat speed and strategy. The week culminates at the Manteo One Design Regatta on July 26.
Week 3 culminates at the Manteo Summer One Design Regatta on Saturday, July 26. Sailors who complete Week 3 are encouraged to compete — the perfect first regatta experience on Roanoke Sound.
Each class is limited to 8 sailors. SSCA members receive priority placement — all others are added to the waitlist and confirmed as space allows. Register now while spots are open.
Southern Shores Civic Association members have priority placement through their session's deadline date. After that, remaining spots open to all registrants. Non-members are encouraged to register now — waitlist spots are confirmed on a rolling basis as space permits.
Hatteras Community Sailing is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. No child will be turned away for inability to pay — contact us about scholarship availability. EIN: 85-2684924.
Capacity shown is illustrative until live registration data is connected. Contact info@sailhatteras.org to confirm current availability.