Introduce your child to the excitement of sailing with Fall Sail Camp in Tampa Bay. Designed for ages 7-12, this full-day program teaches essential sailing skills through fun activities and expert guidance at the Davis Island Yacht Club.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours per day
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity including balance and coordination but no prior experience is necessary.
Wildlife
History
Davis Island Yacht Club has been a cornerstone of Tampa's sailing community since the mid-20th century, fostering local maritime skills.
Conservation
The program encourages responsible water use and teaches young sailors to respect Tampa Bay’s delicate marine ecosystem.
Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation
Founded to teach sailing to young people on Tampa Bay, the Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation runs seasonal camps, youth and adult lessons, and dinghy programs from its waterfront location in Tampa, Florida.
The Foundation offers age-specific programs including Shipmates for ages five to six, Discover Sailing groups for ages seven to twelve and thirteen to seventeen, Learn to Race for ages seven to fifteen, and a Learn to Sail Dinghy course for ages eleven and up using stable RS Quest dinghies. Youth Sailing Lessons include focused three-hour sessions for beginners, while adult options provide entry-level instruction and skill refinement on Tampa Bay.
Camps run as multi-day or week-long sessions with full-day schedules for many groups; activities combine on-the-water practice, games, drills, and team-focused learning. Instructors lead singalongs, hands-on activities, and race drills depending on the program. The Shipmates program emphasizes playful introduction to water safety and confidence-building for the youngest participants. The Learn to Race program focuses on advanced techniques and race tactics for aspiring competitive sailors.
The Foundation emphasizes safety, boat handling, sail trim, and teamwork in a supportive environment on Tampa Bay. Programs are designed to build confidence and a lasting interest in sailing for participants of different ages and skill levels. Parents and participants can expect structured, age-appropriate curriculum, experienced instruction, and a community-focused approach to youth sailing education on Davis Island. Registration details, schedules, and program specifics are available through the Foundation's official channels and enrollment follows published session dates each season annually.
Location
Tampa, FL
Waterfront programs on Davis Island
Ages Served
Ages 5–17 and adults
Programs for kids, teens, and adults
Lesson Lengths
3-hour & full-day
Flexible single lessons and multi-day camps
Program Types
Camps & Lessons
Dinghy, race, and skill programs
Find the right camp or course for every age — review schedules and register through official Foundation channels.
Bring Sun Protection
Florida’s sun can be intense even in fall; pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect young sailors.
Wear Water-Friendly Shoes
Closed-toed water shoes provide grip and safety on wet decks—flip-flops are not recommended.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive on time or early to get settled and receive safety briefings before hitting the water.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle to keep kids hydrated throughout the active day on the bay.
USCG-Approved Life Jacket
Mandatory for safety on the water during all sailing activities.
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Closed-Toed Water Shoes
Protect feet and provide traction on wet surfaces and boats.
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Sun Hat
Offers crucial shade during long hours outdoors in the sun.
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Change of Clothes
To wear dry clothes post-sailing for comfort after water-based activities.
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