Mon - Thurs noon to 5PM • $350
An intensive, four day afternoon course for 12–18 year olds that builds real small boat skills in Club 420s, RS Zests, and Lasers on Lake Tahoe. Expect capsizes, self rescue drills, and focused coaching at the Lake Forest Boat Ramp.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days (approx. 20 hours)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; participants should be comfortable with repeated swimming practice and several hours of active instruction each afternoon.
Wildlife
History
Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and has long been a training ground for alpine and water sports.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace; clean gear to prevent the spread of invasive species like quagga mussels and follow local vessel inspection rules.
Mon - Thurs noon to 5PM • $350
Wear a wetsuit
Wetsuits are mandatory for this class because capsizes and swims are part of the curriculum; a 2–3 mm shorty or full suit is recommended.
Practice basic swimming
Students should be comfortable swimming in cold water and able to manage a short open water swim during drills.
Bring layered clothing
Temperatures change quickly after leaving the water—pack warm layers and a dry change of clothes for comfort ashore.
Reserve wetsuit rentals early
If you need to rent a wetsuit, arrange it before arrival since local inventory can be limited during busy weeks.
2–3 mm shorty or full wetsuit
Mandatory for cold water capsize drills and comfortable swimming.
summer
Personal flotation device (PFD)
A properly fitting life jacket improves safety and is required while afloat.
Closed toe water shoes
Protect feet when launching, beaching, and during rescue drills.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Strong alpine sun and reflected glare demand good UV protection.
summer