Do I need sailing experience?

No prior experience is necessary; first-time sailors are welcome, and instructions are provided.

Is there a safety briefing?

Yes, all participants receive a safety orientation before sailing.

Yes, guests can join your sailing session if space is available and they meet safety requirements.

Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen and footwear suitable for boats.

How do I reserve my spot?

Booking is done online through The WaterFront Center’s website; schedule your session in advance.

Is there an age limit?

Participants must be at least 12 years old to sail, with minors accompanied by an adult.

Water Activities & Sailing at The WaterFront Center in Oyster Bay

Oyster Bay, located on the north shore of Long Island, offers a prime backdrop for boating enthusiasts and those seeking to command the open waters. The WaterFront Center’s Sailing Rental Season Pass invites adventurers of all levels to enjoy the thrill of sailing during the warm summer months. With a fleet of responsive Sonars, this program provides the perfect opportunity to experience the wind and waves without the commitment of boat ownership. Visitors can partake in up to three hours of daily sailing, making it a flexible and accessible way to spend a day on the water.

What makes this experience stand out is the ease of access combined with professional instruction—participants complete a check-out exam, ensuring everyone feels confident navigating the waters. The season pass opens the door to numerous outings, whether a solo escape or a shared adventure with friends and family. Oyster Bay’s scenic harbor, framed by lush shoreline and dotted with jetties and inlets, creates a diverse and engaging sailing environment. The area is also rich in local history, with significant maritime roots reflected in the community’s spirit.

The WaterFront Center’s commitment to safety and education adds an extra dimension of appeal for newcomers eager to learn the basics or refine their skills. This accessible, well-organized program offers an ideal introduction to sailing, making it a popular choice among visitors seeking a memorable outdoor water experience in the area.

Whether you’re chasing a summer breeze or honing your sailing skills, this season pass allows for a carefree yet exhilarating way to embrace boating—an essential part of Oyster Bay’s vibrant water recreation scene.

About The WaterFront Center

The WaterFront Center in Oyster Bay, New York, operates hands-on maritime programs and rentals focused on sailing, paddling, and coastal ecology. Founded to make the harbor accessible to families, learners, and community groups, the center offers guided Ecology & Wildlife Cruises aboard the historic CHRISTEEN with Naturalists, private charters on the IDA MAY, Discover Sailing lessons, and public sails.

Programs include two-hour Ecology & Wildlife Cruises on CHRISTEEN with touch tanks and sail-handling; private IDA MAY charters for up to 44 guests; and CHRISTEEN private charters for up to 24 guests. Discover Sailing provides intimate two-hour instruction with a certified instructor for up to four guests. Sailing rental season passes permit regular access to the center’s Sonar fleet after a check-out exam. Returning sailors can confirm qualification through a 30-minute Returner’s Recertification Test featuring a 20-question assessment to rent Sonar, Hobie Getaway, or Hobie Wave boats.

Paddle programming includes single and double kayak rentals, stand-up paddleboard (SUP) rentals, Paddle Group Tours, a Monthly Paddle Pass, and a Paddle Rental Season Pass. Specialty offerings feature SUP Yoga and the Puppy Paddle, led by instructor Deanna from Salty Soul Yoga, where dogs wear lifejackets. The WaterFront Center also runs sunset cruises, harbor tours, fishing charters on the IDA MAY, community open sails, and themed events. As a visible Oyster Bay resource, the center combines certified instruction, community-focused programming, and a mix of private and public water experiences. Booking information, schedules, and safety policies are available through the center's official program listings online.