Set sail with tailored lessons for youth on Nantucket, blending safety, skill-building, and maritime culture. A perfect introduction for young adventurers eager to navigate the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Kids should be able to move comfortably and follow basic instructions; no prior experience needed.
Wildlife
History
Nantucket’s maritime history dates back to the 18th century, with the island serving as a major whaling hub, shaping its seafaring culture.
Conservation
The center promotes minimal environmental impact, encouraging sustainable boating practices and caring for local ecosystems.
Nantucket Community Sailing - Jetties Sailing Center
Set sail with tailored lessons for youth on Nantucket, blending safety, skill-building, and maritime culture. A perfect introduction for young adventurers eager to navigate the water.
Nantucket Community Sailing - Jetties Sailing Center delivers a range of on-water programs and rentals from its base on Nantucket, Massachusetts. The organization operates a mix of educational and recreational experiences including historic Tall Ship Lynx sails, drop-in youth class days, kayak and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, sailboat rentals, toddler and youth private sailing lessons, a Women’s Clinic, and the community-focused "Sails for Old Salts."
Programs address a broad age range: toddlers (ages 2–4) can begin with private toddler sailing lessons; youth (ages 5–12) can progress through drop-in classes, private lessons in boats such as the RS Quest and Opti, and sailboat rentals in Rhodes 19 and Marshall Cat 15 boats; older adults can join the free Sails for Old Salts keelboat sessions. Instructors guide small groups or individual sailors, and many offerings emphasize hands-on learning, confidence building, and safe time on Nantucket Sound.
The Jetties Sailing Center also supports local access: island-resident youths receive free tickets for select experiences, extending community reach. Rental options — sit-on-top kayaks and paddleboards — provide flexible, family-friendly ways to explore nearby waters. All program descriptions specify age ranges and vessel types to help visitors choose appropriate experiences. Nantucket Community Sailing - Jetties Sailing Center is positioned as a community-oriented provider of sailing education, rentals, and historic sailing opportunities in Nantucket.
Location
Nantucket, MA
Jetties Sailing Center on Nantucket Island
Programs Offered
8 programs
From Lynx sails to toddler lessons
Ages Served
Ages 2–60+
Programs for toddlers to seniors
Youth Access
Free for island youth
Free tickets for island-resident youths
Secure spots on Lynx sails, book rentals, or enroll a child in lessons — experience Nantucket waters with community-focused programs.
Check weather conditions
Ensure weather is suitable for sailing to maximize safety and learning experience.
Arrive early
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your lesson to gear up and meet your instructor.
Wear appropriate clothing
Dress in quick-drying, layered clothing and bring a hat and sunscreen.
Follow safety instructions
Pay close attention to instructor guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Life jacket
A properly fitted life jacket is crucial for safety during all sailing activities.
Sunscreen
Protect skin from sun exposure during water activities regardless of weather.
Water shoes
Non-slip water shoes help with traction aboard small boats.
summer
Hat
A wide-brimmed hat keeps the sun off and improves comfort.