First Mates Sailing
First Mates is an introductory program designed to introduce children ages 5-7 to sailing, and to help them learn to be comfortable on boats and in the water. We offer two sessions, a morning session that runs from 9 am to 12 pm, followed by an afternoon session from 1 pm to 4 pm.
Students will sail with an instructor on board, and participate in land and water based activities that will teach them the basics of sailing, safety, and seamanship. Sessions may also include kayaking or stand up paddleboarding. Activities will include knots, parts of the boat, nautical crafts, beachcombing, crabbing, games and adventures on land and by water. All water activities will be dependent on weather as it can get quite windy and safety is our #1 priority. Participants are NOT required to do the swim check.
Children must be 5 years old before the class date. Classes are limited to 12 participants.
NEW for 2026
Extended-Day Pilot Program
Combining Junior Sailing & Tennis
Conanicut Yacht Club is excited to introduce a new full-day Sailing & Tennis program for the 2026 season. This members-only pilot program offers a dynamic, well-rounded day that combines time on the water with structured tennis instruction. Space is limited as we launch this program for the first time.
Designed for children ages 5–12, participants will begin their day sailing in our First Mates or Beginner Sailing classes, building confidence and foundational skills on the water. After lunch and a waterfront activity, the group will transition to the tennis courts in the afternoon. Children will have time to change into tennis whites before walking to the courts, accompanied and supervised by instructors throughout the transition.
At the tennis courts, participants will focus on developing essential fundamentals including hand–eye coordination, balance, agility, teamwork, and court awareness. Tennis instruction is delivered in a playful, encouraging environment where children learn the basics, build confidence, and make new friends—all while having fun.
This new full-day program keeps kids active, engaged, and excited to learn across both sports.
Schedule for 2026
Weekly Classes: June 22-August 14
Choose from TWO sessions Daily
[morning] 9 am – 12 pm or [afternoon] 1 - 4 pm
9 am - 12 pm, First Mates [AM]
12 - 3 pm, Tennis Extended Day (members-only pilot program)
1 – 4 pm, First Mates [PM]
Week 8: August 17-21
9 am – 12 pm, First Mates [AM only]
POST SEASON
Week 9: August 24-26
9 am – 12 pm, First Mates [AM only]
TBD, option to register if interest.
Cost:
$265 / child / week for children of members
(First Mates, AM or PM session)
$260 / Tennis Extended Day Add-on
(from 12-3pm)
$325 / child / week for grandchildren of members & guests
(includes Limited Member Fee)
For staffing purposes tennis registration for the tennis add on will close at 12 noon on Friday for the upcoming week. Thank you for understanding!
Please register one child per form.