Join skilled sailors for engaging evening sessions on Oyster Bay Harbor with The WaterFront Center. Build your sailing skills while connecting with a community passionate about the water.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness, able to handle active boat tasks and prolonged standing or moving on deck.
Wildlife
History
Oyster Bay has a rich maritime heritage dating back to colonial times, historically serving as a hub for fishing and boatbuilding.
Conservation
Local programs focus on protecting Oyster Bay’s water quality and marine habitat to ensure sustainable recreational use.
The WaterFront Center
Join skilled sailors for engaging evening sessions on Oyster Bay Harbor with The WaterFront Center. Build your sailing skills while connecting with a community passionate about the water.
The WaterFront Center in Oyster Bay, New York, operates hands-on maritime programs and rentals focused on sailing, paddling, and coastal ecology. Founded to make the harbor accessible to families, learners, and community groups, the center offers guided Ecology & Wildlife Cruises aboard the historic CHRISTEEN with Naturalists, private charters on the IDA MAY, Discover Sailing lessons, and public sails.
Programs include two-hour Ecology & Wildlife Cruises on CHRISTEEN with touch tanks and sail-handling; private IDA MAY charters for up to 44 guests; and CHRISTEEN private charters for up to 24 guests. Discover Sailing provides intimate two-hour instruction with a certified instructor for up to four guests. Sailing rental season passes permit regular access to the center’s Sonar fleet after a check-out exam. Returning sailors can confirm qualification through a 30-minute Returner’s Recertification Test featuring a 20-question assessment to rent Sonar, Hobie Getaway, or Hobie Wave boats.
Paddle programming includes single and double kayak rentals, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, Paddle Group Tours, a Monthly Paddle Pass, and a Paddle Rental Season Pass. Specialty offerings feature SUP Yoga and the Puppy Paddle, led by instructor Deanna from Salty Soul Yoga, where dogs wear lifejackets. The WaterFront Center also runs sunset cruises, harbor tours, fishing charters on the IDA MAY, community open sails, and themed events. As a visible Oyster Bay resource, the center combines certified instruction, community-focused programming, and a mix of private and public water experiences. Booking information, schedules, and safety policies are available through the center's official program listings online.
Location
Oyster Bay, NY
Harbor-based programs and rentals
Group Capacity
IDA MAY 44 • CHRISTEEN 24
Private and public sail options
Pass Options
Monthly & Seasonal
Sailing and paddle passes available
Certified Instruction
Certified Instructors
Discover Sailing and SUP Yoga leaders
Reserve ecology cruises, private charters, Discover Sailing lessons, or paddle and season passes for Oyster Bay adventures.
Bring Sailing Gloves
Protect your hands during maneuvers and rope handling for a better grip and less friction.
Arrive Early for Briefing
Get familiar with the boat’s setup and safety procedures before setting sail.
Check Local Weather Reports
Wind and weather shifts can be sudden on Oyster Bay—dress accordingly and stay informed.
Wear Non-Marking Boat Shoes
Footwear with good traction and no black soles helps you move safely on deck and protects the boat.
Windbreaker Jacket
Keeps you warm and protected from gusty winds on the water.
spring
Non-Marking Boat Shoes
Provides traction and protects both your feet and the boat’s surface.
Sailing Gloves
Protects hands from rope burns and improves grip when handling lines.
UV Protection Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water and shields your eyes during bright daylight sails.
summer