Young sailors will find their footing with expert instruction and exhilarating races at Davis Island’s Fall Sail Camp. Perfect for beginners and aspiring racers, this program builds skills and self-confidence on Tampa Bay’s calm waters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Wildlife
History
Davis Island has a rich maritime history and has been a hub for sailing and boating since the early 20th century.
Conservation
The foundation emphasizes sustainable sailing practices and environmental stewardship to protect Tampa Bay’s waters.
Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation
Young sailors will find their footing with expert instruction and exhilarating races at Davis Island’s Fall Sail Camp. Perfect for beginners and aspiring racers, this program builds skills and self-confidence on Tampa Bay’s calm waters.
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 Appropriate Clothing
Dress in quick-drying, layered clothing suitable for water activities and sun exposure.
Bring Sun Protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against Florida’s strong sun during long hours on the water.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the active day on the water.
Check the Weather
Monitor weather conditions daily—high winds or storms can impact sailing plans.
Solar Hat
Provides shade and sun protection during long hours outside on the water.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Quick-Drying Clothes
Keeps sailors comfortable and dry after getting wet.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day and reduce plastic waste.
Sunscreen SPF 50+
Protects skin from harmful UV rays during sun exposure.