sailboat summer

7 Best Sailing Summer Camps 2024

By: Author Martin Soto

Home » Sports » 7 Best Sailing Summer Camps 2024

Sailing camps are a fantastic way for middle school, high school, and college students to experience sailing in beautiful landscapes. Students learn how to sail from experts, whether they have previous experience or not.

The opportunities for gaining certifications in scuba diving and sailing are also a possibility, plus learning marine biology from professionals in the field. For kids or teenagers who are looking to enhance their sailing skills during the summertime, here are some of the best sailing camps for you. 

Some of the programs are hosted overnight in tropical places within the United States while others take you to some of the most clear water places in the Caribbean.

Top Sailing Summer Camps

Sail caribbean.

Established in 1979, Sail Caribbean is a fantastic adventure summer camp for teens. This teen sailing camp focuses on leadership, learning, and personal growth. For over 40 years, Sail Caribbean has been offering sailing and diving programs during the summer break in the beautiful waters of the British Virgin Islands.

There’s no need for any prior sailing knowledge, students with zero or little sailing experience are encouraged to join. Each year, students take command of a single-hull 50-foot sailing yacht or 45-foot catamaran and return home more confident and self-reliant after this amazing experience.

At Leeward and the British Virgin Islands, teens experience a fun sailing adventure with crewmates in the Caribbean waters. These destinations have the best sailing conditions and host a variety of cultural and natural wonders. With qualified staff and friendly Island residents, Sail Caribbean shows teenagers all that those beautiful islands have to offer. The yacht is their home and transportation.

Their sail camps also have a diverse range of activities such as scuba diving, marine biology, island exploration, snorkeling, waterskiing, kayaking, and windsurfing.

LAMI TopSail Summer Camps

LAMI TopSail Summer Camps are hosted on the Southern California coast. Children ages 6-17 can have an enjoyable summer of sailing and learn about things like island ecology, marine science, and maritime history. All steps of the sailing process are taught, starting from how to leave the dock to living on the boat.  

Campers get to participate in land and sea activities throughout their day and spend the night out at sea. They have a day camp for kids 6-10 where children spend time on the dock for a week with an optional choice for sleeping on a boat at sea at the end of it. This overnight sailing camp has two different sessions that last 5 and 12 days for older kids 10-17.

Here children will learn everything about sailing and the educational topics mentioned above while observing the beautiful night sky and making friends along the way. Campers don’t need any previous sailing experience, making it a perfect option for beginners to learn to sail.

SeaTrek BVI

SeaTrek offers summer adventure camps for junior, high school, and college students interested in everything from sailing, scuba diving, marine biology, and other water sports. Sailing through the British Virgin Islands and other Caribbean islands, this summer program can be a great opportunity for hands-on learning, personal growth, and meeting new friends.

The voyages on a 48-foot catamaran include sailing instruction, learning how to dive, and introductory courses to marine science. Students of similar age get to live aboard a yacht that’s well-equipped with safety and on-board technology. Led by highly-qualified and experienced sailing instructors and staff, students learn in a very nurturing and safe environment.

No prior sailing skills are necessary to join this sailing camp. They offer 2-3 week sessions at five difficulty levels ranging from Trek 1-5. SeaTrek’s marine biologist also introduces the island’s tropical ecology and wildlife to students.

Campers also have a choice to indulge in community service and earn academic credits. Moreover, students at SeaTrek summer sea camp can play, swim, and relax while participating in all kinds of watersports on the beautiful islands and beaches.

Broadreach is another of the top teen sailing camps that offer incredible Caribbean sailing adventures. Founded in 1993, Broadreach offers teen summer programs to learn actively, build skills, and explore. The students are divided into small groups and given charge of a 40 or 50-foot catamaran.  

A crew of boys or girls of the same age rotate through a roaster of onboard responsibilities working independently and as a team to keep their boat moving. Students learn to sail from each other as well as from instructors. The entire experience encourages teamwork, inclusivity, relationship building, responsibility, and growth while sailing.

Its suitable for novice or advanced sailors — Broadreach offers both advanced and beginner level camps. Although sailing and diving are a core part of their programs, kids can also enjoy other fun activities. Students learn to do all kinds of small boat handling, skiing, surfing, wakeboarding, kayak expeditions, community service, and get advanced certifications. Since living aboard is a lot different than land life, Broadreach prepares the students for boat life aspects beforehand.

There are three adventure programs for middle school students and three advanced programs for high school students. After learning how to helm a boat in the first phase, students then focus on island exploration and decide where to go in the second and third phases.

ActionQuest

For more than 40 years, ActionQuest has been operating fun adventure sailing summer camps for young adults. The sailing program challenges students in every aspect, from sailing, scuba diving to general teamwork on board. Under the guidance and instructions of sailing experts and licensed ActionQuest staff, camp members get their hands on the helm of a 50-foot wind-powered sailboat.

With the British Virgin Islands’ idyllic setting, teens wake up to a brand new view every day. ActionQuest offers an empowering and unique summer camp experience. This summer program also emphasizes learning preliminary marine science, navigation, water sports, and community service. Learners can also get internationally-recognized sailing and scuba certifications.

Teens live aboard and sail together with 11 other potential friends while exploring the Caribbean islands. Their adventure programs are non-competitive. They offer a perfect environment for developing communication skills, leadership skills, a sense of self-discovery, teamwork, and leadership.

Odyssey Expeditions

Odyssey Expeditions is a leading teen adventure camp operating extraordinary sailing, scuba diving, and  marine biology training  programs for more than 25 years. Other activities include island exploration, watersports, and community service. Teens receive hands-on learning aboard sailing catamaran travel, develop leadership skills, build confidence, and make friendships.

Sailing across the most heavenly British Virgin Islands, this dream destination allows students to view breathtaking scenery each day. Working as a team, each student learns to sail a 40-foot sleek yacht. 

At the end of this educational adventure summer camp, students should know most general sailing knowledge. That includes vessel parts, sail points, sailing theory, and terminology. Skills like sail trim handling, powerboat handling, and seamanship skills are a core part of the sailing program. Students also learn the art of navigation, such as course-plotting and hazard recognition.

Tall Ships Adventure

Tall Ships Adventure offers youth 12-18 years of age, the opportunity to learn how to sail an authentic tall ship while developing necessary life skills like independence, self-reliance, and courage. They experience personal growth while having the time of their lives and making lifelong friends.

They offer three different adventures based on age. Children between ages 12-14 can join either the 5-day adventures aboard the tall ship Black Jack sailing out of Ottawa or the 5-day, 4-night island adventure split between the tall ship Black Jack and the island base camp tucked away on the Ottawa River.  

The Island-Hopping Adventure sailing camp is perfect for ages 14-18, aboard the tall ship Fair Jeanne. Exploring The Thousand Islands and Lake Ontario, this adventure is an opportunity to explore one of the world’s most magical freshwater archipelagos.

Trainees of all ages aboard each of the voyages will receive authentic sail training, take responsibility for making critical decisions with real-world consequences, and most importantly, they are going to have boatloads of fun.

• Life Aboard

Study Abroad & Gap Year Voyages at Sea

The semester abroad that puts you miles ahead.

If you are ready to do something exceptional, join our team and embark on an educational voyage of discovery and adventure.

Embark on a voyage of discovery, circumnavigating the world, follow our vessels while they sail the world's oceans, ranging in length from 20 to 90 days, our spring, fall and summer educational semesters span the globe..

Enrollment is open to all college and gap year students, as well as high school graduates. Aside from an adventurous spirit and willingness to give it your all, no previous experience is necessary to join our team.

Experience Life Aboard

Follow the Experience

Watch our 3-part series as the student crew crosses the atlantic from the mediterranean to the caribbean, docuseries episode 1: sea legs, docuseries episode 2: rite of passage, docuseries episode 3: anchors down, meet s/y vela, our newest sea|mester vessel.

After two years of preparation, planning, and construction S/Y Vela was launched in mid-July 2020! Her first compliment of student crew joined Vela in the Maldives for an epic Indian Ocean adventure to Cape Town, South Africa. Marking Sea|mester’s 20th anniversary, the decision to build our third vessel was an exciting and exhausting event. Vela has an incredibly bright future ahead, yet our build blog will remain on our site as a testament to those that made the creation and birth of our newest floating classroom possible.

Check Out Vela’s Build Blog

Featured Voyages

Caribbean to mediterranean: 70 day.

via British Virgin Islands, Azores, Gibraltar, Spain, Italy

This summer is your opportunity to do something truly remarkable and sail across the Atlantic Ocean from the British Virgin Islands to Rome, Italy. Voyage emphasis? Bluewater sailing, and lots of it, yet students will also earn 9 college credits in Oceanography, Nautical Science and Student Leadership from USF.

Bali to South Africa

via Komodo, Christmas Island, Cocos Keeling, Mauritius

This voyage is a once in a lifetime opportunity to sail aboard one of our 112-foot schooners, S/Y Argo or S/Y Vela, from Bali in Indonesia, across the Southern Indian Ocean to Cape Town via Christmas Island and Mauritius. The voyage offers a full complement of academics, allowing students to earn 12 college credits. Additionally, […]

Discover Your Passion for Learning

While studying abroad with Sea|mester gives unique opportunities to travel the world, discover new cultures and take part in the adventure of a lifetime, the backbone of the experience is a comprehensive academic curriculum, accredited through the University of South Florida (USF).

In the Sea|mester environment, combining academics with the experience allows students to truly interact with their education. It brings your education to life, adding relevancy and practical application to the material as well as never-ending opportunities to learn.

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Community Boating Inc. 21 David G Mugar Way, Boston MA 02114

Phone: (617) 523-1038

Email: [email protected]

Summer Junior Program

Your child can enjoy an active, fun-filled summer with the Junior Program. Kids from all walks of life come to experience the joys of sailing while making lifelong friends. We offer additional opportunities for paddling, windsurfing, and even leadership development — our sliding cost scale makes this affordable for all.

Youth can learn to captain a sailboat in our two-week beginner class, while taking advantage of additional programming throughout the day. They love our open paddling and sailing program where they can explore our monitored area of the Charles river outside of class while improving sailing skills, and gaining independence. Our Instructor-in-Training Program, Race Team and STEM classes promote teamwork, leadership, volunteerism, sportsmanship and responsibility.

Sign up below to get emailed updates on registration and new class offerings.

Junior Program Mailing List

• Name First Last

• 941.504.4236
• [email protected]

JOIN US and LEARN TO SAIL this summer on beautiful Sarasota Bay!

Dates: June 3rd – August 2nd, 2024 

Full Day – One Week session M-F 9-4 

Half Day – Two Week session M-F 9-12

Sarasota Sailing Squadron  –  1717 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL

Welcome to Summer Camp at Sarasota Youth Sailing!

We are gearing up for yet another amazing season!  Our summer camp is the longest running water sports camp in Sarasota with many of our parents, grandparents, and instructors growing up in the program. Please know that we do  hold camp rain or shine. If there is inclement weather, we host activities within our sheltered areas. Our summer camp is held during the hurricane season. If we are forced to close due to hurricane or tropical storm conditions, there will be no refunds, or make-up sessions.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us via e-mail, at  [email protected] , or by phone or text at the SYS number, (941) 504-4236.

What to bring to every class: Coast Guard approved Life jacket  that fits properly with a  whistle   attached to it, closed toed shoes, insulated water bottle with a clip or feature that allows your sailor to tie it to their boat, hat and/or sunglasses, sunscreen, and a towel. Change of clothes is recommended. Participants should also wear bathing suits, rash guards, and any other sporty clothes that can get wet. Life jackets are  not  provided, and sailors will not be able to participate without a life jacket. We recommend water sport helmets for all of our sailors. 

Full day campers need to pack lunches as well as snacks for the day. Refrigeration is not currently available. We require a WASTE-FREE lunch. This means no plastic zip lock bags, disposable food bags (like bags of chips), no candy or granola bar wrappers, juice boxes, anything that gets thrown in the garbage is not permitted. Here at SYS we are striving to be more eco-conscious, and are taking more responsibility for being the best stewards of the earth that we can be. Considering we have lunch OVER the water on the dock every day, we just can no longer take the risk of sailors using a large amount of trash all at once over our beautiful Sarasota Bay. Tuperware and paper bags are acceptable, any disposable plastics including straws are not.

REFUND POLICY

Sarasota Youth Sailing will provide a refund 24 hours before the class session’s start date only if there is a documented injury that prevents participation. A credible note from a medical professional will need to be provided. No refunds will be provided once the registered session begins. All refunds will incur a $50 cancellation fee. All refund requests must be submitted to the Program Administrator of SYS via e-mail at  [email protected]

Tadpoles Pre-Beginner Program

Pre-requisite: 5 years old by the first day of the session (no students older than 6 years old allowed in the class)

Age Guidelines: 5-6 years old

Tadpoles is a “pre-beginner” program designed to introduce younger children to formal sailing instruction.The Tadpole class is designed to challenge the cognitive abilities of children five to seven years of age. Children who have reached the age of five before May 31, and who are capable of functioning within a group, will be admitted (Please read and sign SYS Camp Essential Eligiblity Requirements Document). Tadpoles introduces children to the activities of SYS, rather than providing a broader “day camp” atmosphere. Children will be introduced to boats and water activities, including swimming, sailing, and basic sailing terms. Classes are taught on the SYS Mainecat which is a 22ft sruising multihull, perfect for fun rides on the bay!

Available sessions for Tadpoles

Full Day  – A one week session 9am to 4pm ($450 per session)

Half Day – A two (2) week session 9am-12pm ($450 per session)

Level 1 Optimist

Level 1 Optimist- Beginner

Pre-requisite : 7 years old by the start of the session – (Please read and sign SYS Camp Essential Eligiblity Requirements Document)

Student Age Recommendation: 7-12 years old.

The goal of the Level 1 Optimist- Beginner class is for each child to have positive early experiences on the water and while sailing. Building confidence, ensuring safety, demonstrating respect, courtesy to others, and good teamwork are primary goals. Novice sailors learn basic nomenclature, seamanship, and sailing skills. Optimist Cubes are used for instruction. Fun sailing games and other skill-related activities are incorporated into the course. Upon completion students, should feel comfortable sailing alone in an Optimist cube.

• Parts of the Boat
• Points of Sail
• Upwind/Downwind Sailing
• Rigging/De-rigging
• Capsize/Recovery
• Knots/Lines
• Casting-off/Landing

Available sessions for Level 1 Opti

Level 2 Optimist

Level 2 Optimist – Skipper

Pre-requisite: Level 1 Optimist or Director’s Approval 

Student Age Recommendation: 8-12 years old

The Level 2-Skipper class is an extension of the Level 1 Optimist class that helps students develop skills while also building knowledge and confidence. Skipper class sailors focus on refining boat control, boat handling skills, and learn more safety practices (Please read and sign SYS Camp Essential Eligiblity Requirements Document) . Sailors will be introduced to sailing around a race course. Optimist dinghies are used for single-handed sailing.  As in the novice class, fun sailing games and other skill-related activities will be incorporated into the teaching.

• Wind Direction
• Tacking/Jibing
• Getting out of Irons
• Starting/Stopping
• Man Overboard Recovery
• Basic Rules of the Road

420 Basics and Beyond

Pre-requisite : Level 2 Optimist, O’Pen Skiff, or Director Approval (Please read and sign SYS Camp Essential Eligibility Requirements Document) Student Age Recommendation: 13-18 years old

The 420 Basics and Beyond class is designed for those junior sailors who want to experience sailing a double-handed boat while having a safe, fun, and educational time on Sarasota Bay!   Through demonstrations both on land and on the water, students develop an understanding of how to operate double-handed boats and work as part of a team. The class will focus on the introduction of a jib, proper sail trim, using a spinnaker, proper terminology, as well as a small introduction to sailboat racing.

• Terminology
• Using a spinnaker
• Introduction of Jib
• Proper sail trim

Adventure Sailing

Adventure Sailing -Full Day, 1 Week 

Pre-requisite: 4th – 8th Grade in school

Student Age Recommendation: 9-14 years old

Group sailing on Hobie Waves small catamarans . This is a very popular offering! Sailors pack lunches, and stay all day! 

This class is based off of the US Sailing STEM curriculum, called Reach.  Utilizing the sport of sailing, the students will explore and apply these academics to their sailing and exploring. Particpants will have fun learning about sailing, kayaking, fishing, and so much more with this full day one week camp!

O’Pen Skiffs

O’Pen Skiff/Bics

Pre-requisite : Optimist Level 2 (Please read and sign SYS Camp Essential Eligiblity Requirements Document) Student Age Recommendation: 9-16

The O’Pen Skiff class gives experienced sailors and Optimist racers an opportunity to further their education in a fun exciting boat.  Sailors will work on the basic points of sail while having fun and cruising around the bay!  Sailors receive on-shore chalk talks in preparation for on-the-water activities, and they are instructed on sail trim, boat speed and rules.

• Having Fun!

• Member Login

• Junior Associate Sailing Membership

All junior sailors aged 7 to 21 who are not children of current members must be Junior Associate Sailing Members . These $50 memberships allow sailors to participate in sailing events at CYC from the start of their membership through the end of the calendar year. This membership is required to attend any CYC sailing sessions.

Summer Sailing Programs

Summer sailing programs at CYC offer something for everyone! Ages 5 to 21 are welcome to join us in learning to sail, having fun in the water, conducting STEM experiments related to sailing, and so much more! 

CYC junior sailing and summer camps are designed to promote:

• A lifelong love for sailing and being on the water
• All types of sailing: racing & non-racing
• Water safety 
• Respect for the natural environment involved in sailing
• A skill development path for every participant 
• Experiences that build confidence and friendships

One Week Classes: 

• Sea Squirts: Sea Squirts is designed for our youngest sailors, ages 5 & 6, to ignite their passion for CYC, water safety, and gain more confidence in boats.
• Sound Sharks: Sound Sharks is designed for 7 & 8 year old sailors. This course involves more on the water time developing sailing skills as well as fun on and off the water.
• Cruise Control: Our ‘cruising’ sailors ages 9-13 that are interested in having fun and adventuring on the water. Whether the sailors are cruising a sunfish, 420, or opti cube, they will have a great time! This is a great class for sailors who have prior or no prior experience.
• Race Teams Coach Clinic: We bring in a High Level Coach who specializes in coaching this class of boat of 420's and or Opti. The guest coach will be providing feedback to the participant sailors, sharing their passion, and sharing social networking skills.  

Two Weeks Classes:

• Beginner Opti: This is a full day, two-week course designed for sailors new to sailing who are looking to start their path in racing. This program is designed for ages 9-12.
• Opti Green: This is a full day, two-week course designed for experienced sailors ages 10-13 who would like to race or are interested in Opti Race Team.
• Middle School / High School 420: This is a full-day, two-week course designed for our middle and high school sailors who have minimum sailing experience or are interested in joining a high school sailing team this fall.

Summer Race Teams: Requires full summer commitment (June-August) or half summer (June-July or July-August). R full summer commitment (June-August) or half summer (June=-July or July-August)

• Opti Green: This is designed for experienced sailors ages 10-13 who want to race or are interested in the Opti Race Team.
• Opti, Laser, 420 Race Team: Teams are for sailors who want to compete and grow skills around their boat of choice. Race team sailors are comfortable with intermediate sailing skills and ready to advance in a more competitive environment. Our race team practices throughout the summer and attends regional regattas. 

Wanting to enroll or need more details regarding the Summer Race Team? Reach out to Waterfront Director Jack at [email protected].

Sailing Camp + Race Team Checklist

Bring the following to camp and practice every day:

• Life jacket
• Refillable water bottle
• Close toed shoes
• Breathable, sun protective clothing that can get wet
• Hat and Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (Please apply before arrival. We will re-apply throughout the day.)
• Dry change of clothes
• Healthy Snack
• Lunch (for all day classes)

The following are not permitted:

• Sandals and flip flops
• Ill fitting swimwear (Shorts are recommended over bikini bottoms.)
• Muscle shirts

Families need to complete our codes of conduct and health waivers to participate in junior sailing programs.

• Sailor Code of Conduct
• Parent Code of Conduct

Cancellation/Refund Policy

• Please see our brochure HERE for our refund policy.
• No refund will be given if a sailor cancels 14 days or less from the start date of program price.
• No refund will be given if a sailor is a no show for a program.
• No refunds will be given due to inclement weather.

Open: Tues-Sat: 10-5pm, Sun: 12-5pm | Donate to the Museum

Sailing Programs

Programs start this spring, 401-253-5000 x220 for questions, one burnside street , bristol, ri, 02809 usa.

The Herreshoff Marine Museum offers unique & interactive youth and adult sailing classes for the summer and fall. The mission of the Herreshoff Seamanship Program is to teach the art of seamanship and the principles of sailing, with an emphasis on excellent instruction, as well as the design, beauty, and unique features of these classic vessels.  All classes are taught on our Herreshoff 12 ½s – 16 foot wooden sloops with jib, main & spinnaker – or our Sea Sprite 23s on the Narragansett Bay.  Class sizes are limited and will be filled on a first come, first serve basis. 

Updated as of May 22, 2020: The Herreshoff Marine Museum based on the  guidance  Issued by the state of Rhode Island for summer camps has implemented the following  changes for summer sailing camp. 

We will be modifying the drop off and pick up procedures to eliminate the forming of groups of people and take into account the need for social distancing. 

All staff and campers will be screened verbally upon arrival at camp using the state's self attestation  form . Anyone who answers yes to any of the questions will not be permitted to participate in camp and be sent home. 

Visitors during the camp day. Trips to Prudence Island will not occur this summer and our popular Friday cook out and awards will be limited to staff and campers only. 

We will be utilizing “stable groups” in our program, and our groups will be based on state guidelines of 15 people or fewer. As a sailing program, our groups in a boat on the water will be smaller than that as boat groups are typically 6 people or fewer.

We will also be reducing the total number of campers per session to fewer than 50 participants.

Your child will be with the same children each day and the same instructors. They will sail on the same boat during the course of the session.  All staff will use masks during camp, and although it is not required, campers will be asked to use masks as well while sailing.  

Camp will be conducted on the waterfront and under the tent to allow for the state recommended distance of 14 feet between stable groups and personal social distancing within groups. The classroom at 17 Burnside street will not be utilized for camp activities due to its small size. Facilities will be installed on the waterfront to allow for frequent hand sanitizing and all campers will be encourage to do so multiple times per day.

All high-touch camp equipment will be sanitized multiple times per day. This will include the bathrooms in the museum and the boats we will be using in the sailing program.

Life jackets will not be provided due to the difficulty in cleaning and sanitizing them. Each sailor must provide their own life jacket. 

As we continue to learn more from the state, we will update and modify our procedures to comply with recommended practices. 

We will continue to modify our standard policies which we hope will make it easier for you to make the decision to enroll:

• - The minimum amount required to enroll your child in summer camp to 10% down with the balance due on July 1, 2020. This should make it easier for you to hold a spot in the event that our class sizes are limited.
• - The revised the cancellation policy as follows: Full refunds will be issued to withdrawals received before the start of the Session. In addition, we have waived the administrative fees for the 2020 season. You may also request to transfer your registration to a session later in the summer if there is space available in that session or receive full credit for for the amount paid toward the 2021 season.

We’re all waiting and hoping for good news, and now it is here. Summer camp may look different this year than it has in the past but the importance of camp in a child's development has not changed,  the memories, friendships and shared experiences will still be created this summer on the water. Here at the Herreshoff Marine Museum we are dedicated to providing the best summer camp experience possible. We can't control the wind but we can adjust the sails, we hope to see you this summer. 

On behalf of your museum staff, we hope you’re staying safe and sane in the midst of these uncharted waters.

Youth Programs

For ages 7-15, programs range from Spring & Fall to our Summer Seamanship Program.

Adult Programs

Never too old to learn! Join us throughout the summer for group or private lessons.

Take out the worry of ownership with our hourly or seasonal rental program.

Youth Program 2024

Fun after-school and summer camp sailing programs for youth of all abilities, age 7-15.

Taught on our sailing school fleet of keel boats ranging in size from 16' to 23'. 

Register before February 1st to receive an early registration discount.

SPRING & FALL YOUTH PROGRAM

May 7 - May 30, Tuesdays & Thursdays , 4:15-6:15pm. 4 weeks – $275

September 17 - October 10, Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:15-6:15pm. 4 weeks – $275

YOUTH SUMMER CAMP PROGRAM

Camp Activities Highlights: Prudence Day, Sail to Hog Island, Awards & family BBQ, and family sail Fridays. Campers learn to sail on Herreshoff 12½s, Sea Sprites, Bullseyes, Hobie Cats & Bic O'pen

Sessions & Dates:

• Session 1 – June 17 - June 21
• Session 2 – June 24 - June 28
• Session 3 – July 1 - July 5*
• Session 4 – July 8 - July 12
• Session 5 – July 15 - July 19
• Session 6 – July 22 - July 26
• Session 7 – July 29 - August 2
• Session 8 – August 5 - August 9
• Session 9 – August 12 - August 16

*No class on July 4th

Schedule & Fees:

• Monday - Friday: 8:45 - 3:30
• One Week Full Day - $395
• 2nd Week Full Day - $370
• 3rd + Weeks Full Day - $345

Note: Includes Family Membership for one year.

Scholarships Available

• Contact us for details and applications

Instructor-In-Training Program:

• Contact us to learn more.

FULCRUM FLIGHT SCHOOL - UFO Foiling Clinics

Has your child always wanted to learn to fly? Here’s their chance!  New for 2020  The Herreshoff Marine Museum has teamed up with  Fulcrum Speedworks  to offer  Fulcrum Flight School - UFO Foiling Clinics  this summer at the museum for sailors ages 12 - 15 with previous dinghy sailing experience.​

Foiling is no longer just for highly-trained professionals on  Moths  and  America's Cup yachts . Foiling is for everyone, including junior sailors, and the UFO is the ideal platform for learning how to foil. Fulcrum Speedworks, builders of the  foiling UFO , will be offering a total of 4 clinic days this summer. *The days are scheduled during sessions 2 , 4 , 6 , and 8 of the Herreshoff Summer Sailing Program and are coached by a member of the Fulcrum Speedworks coaching staff. 

Fulcrum Flight School Highlights:

• Learn how to foil on the most accessible and easiest to use foiling dinghy on the market, the foiling UFO.
• Professional coaching from a staff member at Fulcrum Speedworks, builders of the foiling UFO.
• Class size will be limited to 3-4 foiling students. We've found foiling can be very tiring when you're just getting started, so we'll be switching sailors on and off one UFO. Switching off the UFO and watching another student foil allows the learning to continue while you catch your breath.
• Plus with junior sailors the UFO can be sailed one, two or even three up depending on sailor size.
• And to get smaller sailors started on the path to success the coach can come along for the ride, too. 

This summer 16 lucky kids are going to have the time of their lives! Is it going to be yours? Sign up today for the Fulcrum Flight School as part of the Herreshoff Summer Sailing Program. Questions? Contact Kirk Cusic at  [email protected] .

Adult Sailing

Never too old to learn something new

Most Popular Classes: 

Learn to Sail with Beginner & Intermediate classes

Women's Night

Family & Friends Sail

Summer Lessons & Packages

Note: All Packages expire at the end of the season.

Into to Sailing

• Tuesdays and Thursdays
• 5:30 pm - 8 pm
• Starting May 30 through August 17
• Six classes over three weeks for $295
• Museum Member Discount Applicable
• No Previous Experience Needed
• Four Students per Instructor

Intermediate Sailing

• Mondays and Wednesdays
• Starting June 5 through August 23
• All Levels of Experienc

Women's Sail

• Starting June 14 through August 30
• $50 per class
• All Levels of Experience
• Three Students per Instructor
• Starting June 1 through September 30
• $150 per sail
• Up to four people

Private Lessons

• Weekdays or Weekends
• Rates are per person per lesson
• To schedule, contact Kirk Cusic, Education Director , at 401-253-5000 x220 or [email protected]

DATES & TIMES

• Adult Intro to Sailing : Tues/Thur 5:30 - 8pm starting May 30 through August 17. Six classes for $295
• Adult Intro to Sailboat Racing : Mon/Wed 5:30 - 8pm starting June 5 through August 23. Six classes for $295
• *NEW* Adult Morning Sail: June 5 through August 23, More Details TBD. Six classes for $295
• Women's Sail : Wednesdays 5:30 - 8pm starting June 14 through August 30. $50 per class
• Family & Friends Sail : Weeknights 5:30-8pm starting June 1 through September 30. $150 for up to 4 people per sail

PRIVATE LESSONS

Private Lessons Available

• Rates are per person per lesson and can be scheduled by contacting Kirk Cusic, Education Director, at [email protected] or by calling 401-253-5000 x220 .

Sailboat Rental Program

Affordable Rentals

Take part in our unique rental program of our Herreshoff 12½s and fiberglass boats! All boats utilized in the Sailing School are available for rental. Participants must join the Museum at the Columbia level and take a checkout sail with a sailing instructor to demonstrate sailing ability. Have a great summer sailing without all the hassle of boat ownership!

• Affordable hourly/seasonal rates
• Unlimited FREE guests
• Stable, seaworthy, & easy to sail boats!
• Seasprite Racing Season Charter available

Book a Rental

Education Director

[email protected]

401-253-5000 x 220

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

• 949.645.9412
• [email protected]
• Hours, Directions & Parking
• Summer Camp Forms & Info
• Sailing Resources & Other Forms
• What to Expect on Your First Day
• Sailing at Marina Park
• Online Nautical Library
• OCC Foundation
• OCC Sailing Association
• OCC Waterfront Campus
• Professional Mariner Program

Summer Sailing Camps

The 2024 Summer Camp season has ended, but we hope you will join us for After School Sailing on Wednesday afternoons or weekend Youth Learn to Sail classes at Marina Park.  

We look forward to welcoming campers back next summer.  The 2025 camp season will run from June 2 to August 8, 2025. 

Mark your calendar for Camp 2025 Registration 

• OCC Early bird discount ends at 11:59 pm on 5/8/25
• Marina Park early bird discount ends at 11:59 pm 4/10/25

Camps are available for youth ages 7-13 at the OCC Waterfront Campus, and youth ages 6-17 at Marina Park

To register use this link to login . If you have questions about logging in to your account, please call us at 949-645-9412

Summer Sailing Camp Skill Levels, Classes and Boats

• Beginner Sailing Camp s

Intermediate Sailing Camps

• Advanced Sailing Camp /Introduction to Racing
• Safety and Swimming

Age Requirements

How to register.

• Cancellation and Refund Policy

Youth Scholarship Program

Beginner sailing camps.

No sailing experience necessary, but all campers must be able to swim 50 yards and meet the age requirements for the class.

MP = Marina Park – 1600 W. Balboa Blvd, Newport Beach, CA 92663 

• Youth Sailing & Paddling Camp
• Youth Summer Sailing Camp
• Introduction to Keelboat Sailing for Teens

OCC = OCC Waterfront Campus – 1801 W. Coast Hwy., Newport Beach, CA 92663 

• Mini-Mariners,
• Level 1 -Introduction to Sailing
• Level 2-Sailing Fundamentals
• Level 3-Skill Development and Science Exploration

MP Youth Sailing & Paddling Camp for Ages 6-8 and 9-16

The Youth Sailing & Paddling camp is great for campers who would like to experience both sailing and kayaking during their week of camp. Camps are available for ages 6-8 and 9-16.

Younger campers ages 6-8 will learn to sail as a group in the 16’ RS Venture, accompanied by an instructor.  When not sailing, campers will have fun together exploring the harbor in kayaks. Campers will become familiar with water safety and gain confidence around boats.

Older campers will learn to sail in small teams on the 14’ RS Quest dinghy. Supervised and guided by instructors’ campers will also kayak or paddleboard together for fun in Newport Harbor.  Students will learn about the marine environment, basic sailing skills, water safety, and knots – all while developing confidence on the water as we explore the bay.

• For students  6 – 16 years old in 2024
• Able to swim 50 yards  (a swim test will be given on the first day of class)

Register online – Ages 6-8 >

Register online – Ages 9-13 >

OCC Mini-Mariners

Mini-Mariners is an introductory, hands-on class for our younger campers.  With a focus on making kids comfortable in and around boats participants will sail in small groups with the instructor on the Lido14 dinghy. Mini-Mariners will learn about the marine environment, the parts of the boat, how to steer using a tiller, and basic seamanship skills. Fun activities and games will ensure everyone is having fun while learning to sail. 

• For students  7 – 8 years old in 2024
• Able to swim 50 yards  (a swim test will be given on the first day of class

Register online >

OCC- Level 1 – Introduction to Sailing

Learn to Sail is the perfect place to start for students with little or no experience on the water in sailboats.  In the Learn to Sail class students will learn basic concepts of sailing including how to rig, de-rig and care for the boats and equipment, parts of the boat, understanding the wind, points of sail, tacking and gybing, water safety basic “rules of the road”, terminology, and knots.

• For students  9 – 13 years old in 2024

OCC – Level 2 – Sailing Fundamentals

Level 2 is for students who have completed at least one session of Level 1 or similar sailing class, and are ready to move to a beginner/intermediate class where they can continue to solidify their skills.  This is especially true for students who are only sailing a few weeks each season.

In Level 2 we work on gaining proficiency with rigging and docking skills, key sailing concepts and the fundamentals of boat handling, sail trim, and capsize recovery. Time in the boat is the number one key to sailing proficiency and Level 2 can be repeated to allow students additional time on the water.

• For students  9 – 13 years old
• Successful completion of Level 1-Introduction to Sailing or equivalent dinghy sailing experience

OCC – Level 3 – Skill Development and Science Exploration

Level 3 is recommended for students age 9 or older who have completed one or more sessions of Level 2 and are ready to explore sailing as well as the science of sailing.  In the Skill Development & Science Exploration class student will further develop their sailing and seamanship skills as they gain confidence with the boat, terminology, and the marine environment. For a broader understanding we will explore the forces at work in and around the boat with science related, hands-on learning and fun activities from boat building to navigation and sailing adventures.

• For students 9 – 13 years old
• Successful completion of Level 2-Sailing Fundamentals, or equivalent dinghy sailing experience

Intermediate sailing camps are for students who have completed at least 3-weeks of sailing camp and we recommend at least one week of camp this year.

MP – Intermediate Single-Handed Sailing Camp 

With a focus on developing confidence for sailing alone students will learn to rig and sail the one-person 8’ Sabot sailboat.  Sailors in this class can rig their boats independently. Building on the basics students will learn the finer points of boat handling and sail theory. Other topics can include weather, rules of the road, and some navigation.

• For students 9 – 16 years old
• Successful completion of at least 3-weeks of Marina Park Sailing or Sailing & Paddling Camp and recommendation of the instructor, or equivalent experience sailing a small dinghy.

OCC – Level 4 – Intermediate Sailing

Bringing their skills from Level 1, 2 (and 3) students will continue to improve their boat handling and seamanship skills. Sailing in the afternoon breeze, this class emphasizes teamwork as students practice tacking, gybing, sailing on all points of sail and using proper sail trim to further develop their confidence on the water. Other topics can include currents, weather, a little navigation and more. Tell tales and tiller extensions will be introduced as sailors learn to sail their boats fast and efficiently. Sailors in this class can rig their boats independently.

• For students 10 – 13 years old
• Successful completion of Learn to Sail Level 2 or equivalent dinghy sailing experience

Intermediate-Advanced Sailing Camps

Mp – level 5 – introduction to racing.

Level 5-Introduction to Racing is a performance-oriented class for graduates of the Intermediate class.  We will sail the 14′ RS Quest at Marina Park and use racing for skill development. Sailors will practice working as a team to sail the boat faster and more efficiently using sail trim and crew weight to maximize boat speed and improve overall performance. Other topics include roll tacking, advanced boat handling skills, weather recognition, tactics, starts, strategies for rounding a mark, boat speed and the racing rules. Sailing drills and short course races will allow each student to advance his or her sailing skills in a more challenging environment.

• For students 10 – 16 years old
• Successful completion of Intermediate Sailing or equivalent dinghy sailing experience

MP – Campers at Marina Park will sail either the 8′ Sabot, 14′ RS Quest, 16′ Venture or 22′ J/22. 

Boats will be sailed by one to four students depending on the class, number of students, student size and  experience, weather, and traffic on the bay.

OCC – All Level 1 to 4 camps at the OCC Waterfront Campus will use OCC’s fleet of Lido 14 dinghies.  

Boats will be sailed by two to four students depending on the class, number of students, student size and  experience, weather, and traffic on the bay.

Safety  & Swimming

At Marina Park and on the OCC Waterfront Campus safety always comes first.

All children participating in a camp at Marina Park or the OCC Waterfront Campus must pass a swim check which will be held on the first day of each session.  Each child will swim approx. 20 yards and tread water for 2 minutes – lifejackets may be worn during the swim check.

Life jackets must always be worn when students are on the docks or in the boats.

Life jackets will be provided though students are welcome to bring their own USCG approved life jacket.

All students must meet the age requirement for the class they will attend by the first day of class. 

What you need to know about registering

• All registrations are handled online through our occsailing.augusoft.net registration website. If you are unable to register online, we will be more than happy to help you through the process over the phone 949-645-9412, or feel free to stop by our office at 1801 W. Coast Hwy. Newport Beach, CA 92663.
• If this is your first time registering with us, please create a Household Profile with an adult member as the primary contact then add your son or daughter as a youth member to your household. Now you are ready to register your child for summer camp.  Please do not register an adult for summer camp.
• Payment is due at the time of registration

If you have any questions about the programs, dates, age restrictions, anything at all don’t please give us a call at 949-645-9412 or email us at [email protected] and we are happy to help out.

Cancellation & Refund Policy

If you need to cancel or change your camp registration please notify the School Office at 949-645-9412 or via email to [email protected]

Marina Park Summer Camp Refund Policy unless otherwise noted. 

Program Cancellation A full refund will be granted if program/camp is cancelled by the OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship, or the City of Newport Beach Recreation & Senior Services Department.

Participant Request for Program/Camp Cancellation

Marina Park Camp Refund Policy unless otherwise noted.

All refunds must be requested by phone to 949-645-9412 or email at [email protected] prior to the start of the second day of camp.

• NO REFUNDS after the commencement of the 2nd day of camp.
• A refund fee equivalent to one day of participation will be charged if the refund is requested before the commencement of the 2nd day of camp.
• A refund fee of $20 will be charged for refunds requested before the first day of camp for camps $75 and above.

OCC Waterfront Campus Summer Camp Refund Policy unless otherwise noted. 

Cancellations will be accepted and refunds given following these guidelines:

• A $10 processing fee applies to all cancellations.
• Cancellations received within 7 days of the camp start date will be refunded less a $25 processing fee.
• Cancellations received within 72 -hours of the camp start state will be refunded less a $25 processing fee if the vacant spot is filled.  If the vacant spot is not filled, we cannot issue a refund.

at the OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship

A chance for all children to sail.

Sailing is an wonderful opportunity for kids to explore our local marine environment, learn a new skill, meet new friends, and gain confidence that transcends to other aspect of their lives. We believe all children ages 7 to 17 should have an opportunity to explore our local waterways through sailing and powerboating, and scholarships are available to youth who receive free or reduced meals at their local public schools to attend a sailing or powerboating camp for FREE up to $245/yr (7/1 to 6/30).

Thanks to the generous support of our partners CA State Parks – Division of Boating & Waterways and the Orange Coast College Foundation, youth ages 7 to 17 can apply for scholarships to participate in Youth Sailing and Powerboat camps at the OCC School of Sailing & Seamanship on the OCC Waterfront Campus.

Applicants must have swimming ability

We encourage you to apply if you are concerned about your child’s ability to participate in summer sailing camp for any reason. 

To apply for a confidential scholarship please send an email to [email protected] to request a Youth Scholarship Program Application Form. 

Any questions or concerns regarding the Youth Scholarship Program can be directed to  Sailing Program Coord. Mette Segerblom at 949-645-9412, or via email to [email protected] .

Sailing at the 2024 Olympics: What to know, rules, schedule

Here's all the information you need to know about sailing, which returns to paris this summer at the 2024 olympics., by logan reardon • published june 26, 2024 • updated on june 26, 2024 at 12:25 pm.

One of the oldest Olympic sports is returning to its roots at the 2024 Summer Games .

Sailing made its debut as an Olympic event at the 1900 Games , which were held in ... Paris . France won the most sailing medals that year, and the sport has been a mainstay ever since.

Now, with the Olympics returning to Paris , sailing will again be in the spotlight this summer. Here's all the info you need to know about the sport:

24/7 New York news stream: Watch NBC 4 free wherever you are

What is sailing?

Sailing is the art of moving a boat using only waves and the wind. While it used to be the way that people traveled and traded, now it's mainly used for sporting and leisure.

2024 Paris Olympics: See dates, sports, how to watch and more

Here are the rules for the 2024 Olympics in Paris

Get to know Team USA Olympians ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

Get Tri-state area news delivered to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York's News Headlines newsletter.

How does sailing work at the Olympics?

There are 10 different sailing events that will be contested at the 2024 Olympics, with medals handed out for each competition. Here's a brief look at each:

Men's events

IQFoil: One person windsurfing where the athlete stands up and guides the single sail.

Formula Kite: One person kitesurfing featuring a foil kite and a board with a hydrofoil.

ILCA 7: One person using a standard rig (singlehanded dinghy).

49er: Two people, one at the helm making tactical decisions and steering and one doing most of the sail control.

Women's events

IQFoil: Same as the men's event.

Formula Kite: Same as the men's event.

ICLA 6: Same as the men's event with a smaller rig.

49erFX: Same as the men's event with a slightly different rig.

Mixed events

470: Two people (one man, one woman) guiding a 470 cm boat.

Nacra 17: Two people (one man, one woman) using a performance catamaran.

Where is sailing being held at the 2024 Olympics?

All sailing events for the 2024 Olympics will be held at Marseille Marina . The venue is located in southern France on the Gulf of Lion , which is part of the Mediterranean Sea.

What is the schedule for sailing at the 2024 Olympics?

Sailing events will take place from July 28 through Aug. 8 , with series races and medal races taking place each day. Here's a day-by-day breakdown:

July 28: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

July 29: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

July 30: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

July 31: Men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

Aug. 1: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (medal race), women's 49erFX (medal race), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races)

Aug. 2: Men's and women's IQFoil (medal races), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races)

Aug. 3: Men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 4: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 5: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 6: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), men's ICLA 7 (medal race), women's ICLA 6 (medal race), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 7: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), mixed 470 (medal race), mixed Nacra 17 (medal race)

Aug. 8: Men's and women's Formula Kite (medal races)

What countries are the best at sailing?

When it comes to sailing, two nations are traditionally dominant: Great Britain and the United States.

Great Britain leads all nations in sailing gold medals (31) and total medals (64), while Team USA has the most silver medals (23) and second-most total medals (61).

Norway is third in gold medals with 17, trailing only Great Britain and the U.S. France, meanwhile, is third in total medals with 49.

In recent years, Great Britain has only gotten better at sailing. The country has won the most sailing medals at five of the last six Olympics, only losing out to Australia in 2012. The Brits won three golds and five total medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, while the U.S. was shut out.

This article tagged under:

Sailing at the 2024 Olympics: What to know, rules, schedule

Here's all the information you need to know about sailing, which returns to paris this summer at the 2024 olympics., by logan reardon • published june 26, 2024.

One of the oldest Olympic sports is returning to its roots at the 2024 Summer Games .

Sailing made its debut as an Olympic event at the 1900 Games , which were held in ... Paris . France won the most sailing medals that year, and the sport has been a mainstay ever since.

24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are

Now, with the Olympics returning to Paris , sailing will again be in the spotlight this summer. Here's all the info you need to know about the sport:

What is sailing?

Get top local stories in San Diego delivered to you every morning. Sign up for NBC San Diego's News Headlines newsletter.

Sailing is the art of moving a boat using only waves and the wind. While it used to be the way that people traveled and traded, now it's mainly used for sporting and leisure.

2024 Paris Olympics: See dates, sports, how to watch and more

Here are the rules for the 2024 Olympics in Paris

Get to know Team USA Olympians ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics

How does sailing work at the olympics.

There are 10 different sailing events that will be contested at the 2024 Olympics, with medals handed out for each competition. Here's a brief look at each:

Men's events

IQFoil: One person windsurfing where the athlete stands up and guides the single sail.

Formula Kite: One person kitesurfing featuring a foil kite and a board with a hydrofoil.

ILCA 7: One person using a standard rig (singlehanded dinghy).

49er: Two people, one at the helm making tactical decisions and steering and one doing most of the sail control.

Women's events

IQFoil: Same as the men's event.

Formula Kite: Same as the men's event.

ICLA 6: Same as the men's event with a smaller rig.

49erFX: Same as the men's event with a slightly different rig.

Mixed events

470: Two people (one man, one woman) guiding a 470 cm boat.

Nacra 17: Two people (one man, one woman) using a performance catamaran.

Where is sailing being held at the 2024 Olympics?

All sailing events for the 2024 Olympics will be held at Marseille Marina . The venue is located in southern France on the Gulf of Lion , which is part of the Mediterranean Sea.

What is the schedule for sailing at the 2024 Olympics?

Sailing events will take place from July 28 through Aug. 8 , with series races and medal races taking place each day. Here's a day-by-day breakdown:

July 28: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

July 29: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

July 30: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

July 31: Men's 49er (series races), women's 49erFX (series races)

Aug. 1: Men's and women's IQFoil (series races), men's 49er (medal race), women's 49erFX (medal race), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races)

Aug. 2: Men's and women's IQFoil (medal races), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races)

Aug. 3: Men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 4: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 5: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), men's ICLA 7 (series races), women's ICLA 6 (series races), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 6: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), men's ICLA 7 (medal race), women's ICLA 6 (medal race), mixed 470 (series races), mixed Nacra 17 (series races)

Aug. 7: Men's and women's Formula Kite (series races), mixed 470 (medal race), mixed Nacra 17 (medal race)

Aug. 8: Men's and women's Formula Kite (medal races)

What countries are the best at sailing?

When it comes to sailing, two nations are traditionally dominant: Great Britain and the United States.

Great Britain leads all nations in sailing gold medals (31) and total medals (64), while Team USA has the most silver medals (23) and second-most total medals (61).

Norway is third in gold medals with 17, trailing only Great Britain and the U.S. France, meanwhile, is third in total medals with 49.

In recent years, Great Britain has only gotten better at sailing. The country has won the most sailing medals at five of the last six Olympics, only losing out to Australia in 2012. The Brits won three golds and five total medals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, while the U.S. was shut out.

This article tagged under:

17 tips for surviving a summer cruise

Summer is a popular season for cruising, with kids out of school and warm weather making long days in the office unbearable. But summer cruises have two significant downsides: It's the hottest time of year in popular cruise destinations like the Caribbean and the Mediterranean , and ships can be crowded with greater than 100% occupancy, given the multitude of families booked three or four to a cabin.

If you're a fan of summer sailings to sunny destinations but aren't too fond of the heat and crowds, take heart. Here are our top tips for beating the heat and avoiding the crowds so you can survive and better enjoy your summer cruise.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Pay for priority boarding

Getting on the ship can be hectic, so plan ahead for embarkation day . Consider booking a cabin or suite that comes with privileged access and perks (like priority boarding). For example, guests staying in a cabin in Norwegian Cruise Line 's The Haven enjoy a personal escort who brings them on board the ship during embarkation. Royal Caribbean's Royal Suite class guests also get priority boarding.

You don't have to splurge on a suite to get on board faster. Carnival Cruise Line's Faster to the Fun package gives you access to priority check-in and security lines at embarkation, as well as early room access and priority luggage delivery.

If your booking doesn't include early embarkation, arrive at the port either early or later to avoid the rush.

Pack 'cooling' items

Islands in the Caribbean enjoy a hot, tropical climate year-round, with summer temperatures reaching the high 80s Fahrenheit. Summer temperatures in the Mediterranean can reach 90 degrees or higher, especially in July and August.

The key to beating the heat is in the planning. If your packing list doesn't include products to cool you down, add them post haste. Cooling towels won't take up much luggage space and can be a real lifesaver on hot days. These types of towels are water-activated and use evaporation to draw water away from your body. You just soak the towel in water for a couple of minutes, wring it out and place it where you need to cool off.

A water bottle fan is another hot weather essential. These handheld misting fans provide a refreshing spritz when you need it. Up the chill level by dropping a few ice cubes into the bottle to keep your water cold.

Book a balcony cabin

It might be a small patch of cruise ship real estate, but a balcony can be worth its weight in gold for some quiet time. Instead of fighting for a lounge chair among the pool deck crowds, you can enjoy the ocean breeze all by yourself on your private veranda.

Bring activities to keep boredom at bay when waiting in lines

Sometimes lines are unavoidable. While it might be easy to deal with them as adults, waiting is often harder for kids. Games on your smartphone or tablet can be a good distraction, or have your kids bring books or a Kindle if they're readers.

You can also play simple games, such as "I Spy" or "20 Questions." When our kids were younger, the alphabet game was one of our favorite games. You start off by saying, "I went to the store, and I bought an apple" (or something that starts with the letter A). The next person repeats your phrase and adds another item that starts with the letter B. You continue until you get to the letter Z or someone messes up.

Do the buffet differently

Cruise ship buffet areas are often buzzing during traditional meal times for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Consider shifting your meal times earlier or later to avoid the swarm of people. Also, skip the buffet for lunch on embarkation day, as it tends to be overcrowded.

One of the fantastic things about cruise ships is the bounty of dining options available. Avoid the buffet and enjoy a meal in the main dining room or one of the ship's fast-casual dining venues. Added-fee specialty restaurants can provide a more upscale dining experience in a tranquil environment.

Go outside early or late

Plan your outdoor time for the morning or later in the day to avoid heat and crowds. Hit the pool early to secure a lounger before more people show up, and get your sunbathing on while the temperature is manageable. Likewise, take a dip around 5 or 6 p.m. when the summer sun is still shining but your shipmates are all getting ready for dinner.

If you're going to the beach, aim to be one of the first off the ship to take full advantage of the morning hours and come back to the ship early to avoid the hottest part of the day. You might find that lines to get off and back on the ship are shorter if you debark early and come back before the all-aboard rush. Alternatively, if you don't mind the heat or have indoor activities planned, wait for the initial disembarkation rush to pass and leave the ship later to avoid lines at the gangway and crowded tenders.

During peak heat hours (from around noon to 4 p.m.), enjoy indoor activities like onboard trivia games, karaoke or even ice skating (on select Royal Caribbean ships).

Cool off on shore

When it's time to leave the ship for a few hours, seek out water-based shore excursions or activities with shade. Spend the day at a beach resort or water park, or take a snorkeling or scuba diving excursion. If your itinerary includes a stop in either Belize or Bonaire, you can cool down with a cave tubing or cave snorkeling excursion.

Want to stay out of the sun for the day? Head to local art galleries and museums for a cooler day in port. Indoor diversions like these can also be a way to avoid droves of beach-loving crowds.

Hydrate often

When you're spending lots of time in the sun and heat, drinking extra water is important. This is especially true if you're drinking alcohol on your cruise. Increasing your water intake can help prevent dehydration, which is a common side effect of alcohol consumption.

Bottled water is readily available on cruise ships (though not included unless you purchased a drink package or are sailing with an all-inclusive cruise line). We recommend bringing a reusable water bottle that you can fill up at water stations throughout the ship. To balance your fluid retention, you can add electrolyte drink mixes to your water.

Rent a cabana

Cruise ship cabanas and cabanas at cruise line private islands and ports of call provide extra shade and privacy and can level up your cruise experience. Cabanas are typically partially enclosed and often feature lounge furniture and special amenities like chilled fruit skewers, bottled water and designated bar service. Prices vary by cruise line and can range in price on the ship depending on the type of cabana you rent.

Beyond providing respite from the sun, cabanas can solve the problem of securing a lounger on a crowded beach or pool deck. Some cabanas, like the family cabanas on Disney's Castaway Cay or the overwater bungalows at Royal Caribbean's Coco Beach Club, give access to a private beach away from the hordes of other cruisers. Some cabanas come with attendants who will bring you food and drinks, so you can skip the long lines at bars and restaurants.

Take sun breaks

Whether you're on the ship or off, make sure to get out of the sun every one or two hours. Cool off in an air-conditioned indoor space, grab an ice cream cone or find a shady spot outside. (Sun breaks are also a good time to reapply your sunscreen.)

Schedule small-group excursions

While many cruise lines offer tours limited to 25 people or less, your "small group" excursion will likely be one of many visiting popular (and crowded) attractions. Consider booking small-group or private tours that take you to less-visited attractions. Seek out tours that provide VIP-type access that lets you skip the lines or provide a more private experience away from tourist crowds.

Another option is to book an independent shore excursion. You'll enjoy a smaller group (typically 20 people or fewer) and more personalized service. You might even save money booking directly with the vendor. One downside is that cruise ship excursions guarantee your return to the ship before departure — independent tour companies might not.

Stay on the ship on a port day

If you're tired of fighting the crowds on board, stay on the ship during the next port of call. You can enjoy your own personal "sea day" on a practically empty ship. Lounge chairs will be plentiful by the pool, and the lunch line at the buffet won't be as long. If you want to spend an hour or two in port, plan to disembark midafternoon when your shipmates start returning from tours. Just remember to be back before the all-aboard time.

Make reservations

Booking your cruise activities in advance is smart for two reasons. First, it means you can avoid waiting in lines for shows and dining. Also, booking excursions, activities and meals before you board ensures that you eat, do and see what you want during your cruise. Once you've booked your cruise, you can select and book your preferred dining and activities either online or through the cruise line's mobile app.

Suite guests often get first dibs on reservations, so if you don't have priority, you might want to book excursions and specialty restaurants the instant they go on sale — even if that means staying up until midnight.

Arrive early

If you didn't secure reservations for some or all of the activities you hoped to do during your cruise, arrive early to get a good seat. We recommend getting there 15 to 30 minutes before the show.

Use the cruise ship app

Additionally, if you didn't confirm reservations for dining, many cruise ship apps will come in handy, as they often include an easy dinner reservation option. For example, the Carnival Hub app provides dining room wait times and lets you check in when you're ready to eat. It also lets you reserve mainstage shows and book activities like a ride on the Bolt roller coaster (on select ships).

Similarly, Holland America 's Navigator app lets you skip food lines altogether and order coffee, food or room service from anywhere on the ship through the app. You can even use the app to order pizza from New York Deli & Pizza and simply pick it up when it's ready.

Find 'hidden' quiet spots

On your first day, seek out the ship's secret decks or hideaways . You can find one on most cruise lines. If you're sailing on Disney Cruise Line 's Disney Wonder or Disney Magic, head to the back of Deck 7 for a little solitude and aft views. At the end of the hallway, go through the door, and you'll see a somewhat hidden perch with lounge chairs.

If you're on certain Norwegian Cruise Line ships, look for the "public sun deck," which might look surprisingly private with few crowds. On Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway, you'll find the sun deck on Deck 17. On Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss, it's on Deck 19.

Passengers on a Carnival Cruise Line sailing aboard Carnival Freedom, Carnival Panorama or Carnival Sunrise will find a tranquil spot on the forwardmost end of Deck 5, 6, 7 or 10. Go through the doors (with porthole windows) to find hidden forward balconies. Carnival Breeze, Carnival Dream and Carnival Magic are home to a lesser-known lower deck area called the Lanai (Deck 5). It features lounge seating and hot tubs that are cantilevered off the ship.

Additionally, seek out lounges and other spaces without activities if you need a quiet place to kick back. Card rooms and bars in the aft area of the cruise ship are typically less crowded than centrally located venues.

Get access to a private sun deck

Enjoy fewer crowds by splurging for a suite that gives access to exclusive suites-only restaurants and sun decks. You can find these areas within Celebrity's Retreat, Norwegian Cruise Line's The Haven or the MSC Cruises ' Yacht Club.

Additionally, nonsuite passengers can pay for access to less crowded adults-only spaces on many ships. For example, Norwegian's Vibe Beach Club will get you amenities like padded clamshell-style daybeds, chilled towels, a dedicated bar, food and beverage service, and other perks. You won't have an exclusive pool in the Vibe area, but some ships feature infinity-style hot tubs.

Passengers on an Oceania Cruises sailing can purchase a pass to the ship's Spa Terrace, an open-air deck that features plunge pools and hot tubs. Spa Terrace passes also come with access to the thermal suite, which includes a sauna, scented showers and a steam room.

Bottom line

Summer cruising should be relaxing rather than stressful. If you plan ahead and use these tips, you can have a cooler and calmer cruise.

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