Introduce young children to sailing through a fun-filled, supportive camp on Tampa Bay. Perfect for 5-6-year-olds, this program combines play, learning, and confidence-building on the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
multi-day program
Fitness Level
Suitable for children in good health, no prior sailing experience needed
Wildlife
History
Davis Island has been a key part of Tampa’s maritime history since the early 1900s, serving as a hub for fishing and boat-building.
Conservation
The foundation emphasizes environmentally friendly practices, teaching kids about protecting local marine ecosystems during their activities.
Davis Island Youth Sailing Foundation
Introduce young children to sailing through a fun-filled, supportive camp on Tampa Bay. Perfect for 5-6-year-olds, this program combines play, learning, and confidence-building on the water.
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.
Dress for the weather
Ensure kids wear layered, water-resistant clothing to stay warm and dry during the camp.
Sun protection is a must
Even in winter, apply sunscreen and have hats available to protect against sun exposure.
Keep hands warm
Bring gloves to keep young sailors comfortable, especially during chilly days.
Stay hydrated
Encourage drinking water regularly to keep kids energized and safe.
Waterproof jacket
Keeps kids warm and dry during outdoor activities on the water.
winter
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays, even on cloudy days.
winter
Water shoes
Provides grip and comfort for young sailors in wet conditions.
winter
Hat with brim
Shields eyes from sun and glare while on the water.