home summer camp faqs
Does my child have to know how to sail?
No, children do not need any prior experience on boats to participate in the SoundWaters Opti sailing program. The Opti program is designed to teach beginners and intermediates sailors the joys of sailing while on Holly pond. They will learn basic sailing skills, safety, environmental themes and sail theory.
The SoundWaters Pixel program is for advance sailors that have already mastered smaller boats. The campers in the Pixel program will spend their day sailing on Long Island Sound improving their skills and enjoying the fun of a two sail, 13’9” boat.
Do I need to pack my child a lunch?
Yes. SoundWaters does not provide meals. Children must also come with their own water bottle with their name written on it.
Will my child be wearing a life jacket?
Yes, all children in any small boat sailing program are required to wear a life jacket at all times. SoundWaters will provide a life jacket for all sailing campers.
What type of certifications do the staff members hold?
All staff members are CPR and First Aid certified. A US Sailing certified instructor is on the water at all times.
Does SoundWaters offer a payment plan?
Yes. We will devise a payment schedule that suits your needs. A $200 deposit is required for each session and final payment must be made 2 weeks prior to the start of your camper's program.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. SoundWaters offers scholarships to those that are eligible for free or reduced lunch according to the State of CT. Applications are available here.
What is a typical day like?
The activities vary depending on weather and session. Below you will find a basic daily schedule.
Daily Schedule (subject to change):
| 9:00 am |
Campers arrive and sign-in at Cove Island Park |
| 9:15 am |
Morning Circle, discuss day activities, record weather and temperature observations, knots, chart a course. |
| 9:30 am |
Ready boats for day(ex. Rig sails, learn lines, check boats) |
| 10:15 am |
Launch boats |
| 10:30 am |
Sailing, practice tacking and jibing, buoy course, point of sail, wind direction, races |
| 12:00 pm |
Dock boats on shore, Lunch |
| 12:45 pm |
Swim Call |
| 1:30 pm |
Afternoon sailing (sail to Holly Pond salt marsh, look for horseshoe crabs, sailing drills |
| 4:00 pm |
Arrive back on land. Ready boats for bed (clean up sails, wash boat, de-rig for night) Snack |
| 4:45 pm |
Closing Circle- Discus and share what you learned throughout day, what you would like to learn tomorrow. |
| 5:00 pm |
Parent sign-out at bridge |
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