Sailing Adventure at Community Boating Center
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a basic level of physical fitness to handle the boat and stay active during the session.
Overview
Looking to boost your sailing skills? The Community Boating Center’s Keelboat Spinnaker Workshop offers hands-on training in flying the kite and mastering downwind sailing—perfect for beginners and seasoned sailors alike.
Keelboat Spinnaker Workshop
4 hours | Ages 16 and up | For intermediate sailors
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About This Adventure
Join our exhilarating Keelboat Spinnaker Workshop, where you'll elevate your sailing skills in a hands-on, four-hour experience. Master the art of "flying the kite" as you learn essential techniques for hoisting, trimming, and controlling the spinnaker. Gain confidence and prepare for thrilling downwind adventures or competitive racing!
Come fly a kite with us!
Duration: 4 hours
Our Keelboat Spinnaker Workshop is designed for sailors who are comfortable skippering and are ready to take their skills to the next level. This hands-on course introduces the fundamentals of "flying the kite," including hoisting, trimming, gybing, and dousing. You’ll learn established crew roles, sail controls, communication and techniques to keep the boat stay balanced and under control while flying downwind under the kite! With great power comes great responsibility, this course will demystify one of sailing's greatest, most thrilling opportunities!
By the end of this session, you’ll have the confidence to integrate the spinnaker into your sailing, whether you're looking to cruise more efficiently downwind or step into the world of racing.
Prerequisites: Intermediate Keelboat Sailing or equivalent experience
Next Step: Continue practicing, take a private lesson, or join a Keelboat Race Night series to put your spinnaker skills to the test!
Independent usage of spinnaker’s on our fleet of J/24’s is not allowed in our rental program.
CBC is an accredited US Sailing Center; This class is taught by certified instructors and to US Sailing standards.
If the program date you are interested in is full please join our waitlist here.
We do not want cost to be a barrier from participation, our scholarship program can be found here.
Adventure Tips
Check weather conditions before heading out
Ensure wind conditions are suitable for spinnaker handling to maximize safety and learning.
Wear quick-drying, layered clothing
Layered clothing helps stay comfortable while active on the water, especially if the weather shifts.
Arrive early for safety briefing
Getting to the boat early ensures you can participate fully and understand safety procedures.
Practice trimming and handling the spinnaker at a slow pace initially
Focus on control and technique before increasing speed or wind exposure.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Seagulls
- Dolphins
History
The center has been operational for over 50 years, supporting local sailing and boating initiatives.
Conservation
The center emphasizes environmentally responsible boating practices, including waste reduction and habitat preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Boston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during active sailing.
summer specific
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Protects against sun exposure while on the water.
summer specific
Non-slip footwear
Provides grip on wet surfaces and helps prevent slips.
Hat or cap with brim
Additional sun protection for your face and neck.
summer specific