4 Lessons • Ages 11 to 17 • Perfect Introduction to Sailing for Older Kids
Set sail on Tampa Bay with Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation’s Learn to Sail Dinghy program—perfect for kids ready to master boat handling and build water confidence in four dynamic lessons.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 lessons, 3 hours each
Fitness Level
Participants should have average physical fitness with the ability to swim or be comfortable around water.
Wildlife
History
The Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation has been a cornerstone of Tampa’s maritime community, fostering youth sailing since its establishment in the mid-20th century.
Conservation
The foundation emphasizes environmental stewardship, encouraging young sailors to respect and protect Tampa Bay’s unique coastal ecosystems.
Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation
4 Lessons • Ages 11 to 17 • Perfect Introduction to Sailing for Older Kids
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.
Wear quick-dry clothing
Dress in layers of clothes that can get wet and dry quickly for comfort on and off the water.
Use USCG-approved life jackets
Ensure all participants wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for safety during sailing lessons.
Apply sun protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to guard against strong Florida sun exposure while on the water.
Closed-toed water shoes required
Wear closed-toed shoes that can get wet to protect feet and provide traction on the boat; no flip-flops.
Sun hat
Protects your face and neck from sun exposure during extended time on the water.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is key during active lessons under the Florida sun.
Waterproof sunscreen
Prevents sunburn and skin damage when exposed to reflective water surfaces.
Closed-toed water shoes
Provides foot protection and stability aboard the dinghy.