Recreational Sailing at Harvard Sailing Center
Welcome to our Recreation Sailing webpage!
Whether you're an experienced sailor or a beginner looking to embark on an exciting adventure,
we have everything you need to enjoy the thrill of sailing.
Get ready to set sail and experience the beauty of Boston’s historic Charles River.
Here's what you can expect:
***BEFORE YOU GET STARTED***
All recreational sailors must successfully pass a
SWIM TEST prior to being cleared to participate in recreational sailing. Not required prior to orientation sessions.
Recreation sailing memberships must be purchased before participants can begin sailing. Purchase a sailing membership
HERE.
Personal Flotation Devices must be worn at all times by all parties on the water at HSC. They are provided.
Sailors are required to stow and secure all related equipment at the end of their session, unless they are instructed to leave the boat rigged by a staff member.
Payment of all fees must be done through the Recreation Department on their website, or in person at the Malkin Athletic Center Membership office.
Summer Hours of Operation:
Program starts on June 4th. Membership sales begin on 6/1/2025 and end on 9/15/2025.
Tues-Fri: 3:30pm-8:00pm
Sat-Sun: 1:00pm-8:00pm
Inclement Weather Disclaimer: members should contact the sailing center at 617-495-3434 before arriving to check if sailing will be permitted. Weather resulting in closures; lightning, excess wind, heavy rain, extreme temperatures.
Sailing Membership Fees:
1 Month (June, July, August): $100.00
Summer (June 1- September 15) $250.00
Group Instruction
We are offering three one-week classes in June. They will meet Tuesday through Friday evenings. 12 Attendees per session, no membership needed, sign-ups are first come first serve. Swim test required for attendance, failure to provide swim card upon arrival or proof of completion will result in you being unable to sail that day. Applications open now, close 1 day before start of program.
The fee is $150.00 per week.
Week 1: June 3rd-6th: 5:30pm-8:00pm
Week 2: June 17th-20th: 5:30pm-8:00pm
Week 3: June 24th-28th: 5:30pm-8:00pm
Orientation Sessions
All sailors, who have not participated in our sailing classes, must attend an Orientation Session to become familiar with our policies and procedures. Orientation is intended for all participants, including those who know how to sail, but want to check out the facility and options before joining. All participants need to be shown how to rig, launch, and de-rig before they can sail at the Harvard Sailing Center. The sessions are offered twice per week and last approximately 60 minutes. Please do not show up more than 10 minutes late, or else you will not be allowed to join the orientation group.
Wednesdays: 5:30pm-6:30pm
Saturdays: 2:30pm- 3:30pm
Orientation sessions run from June 4th to September 13th. |
Swim Tests
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All sailors must pass a swim test administered by a lifeguard at one the Harvard Pools (Blodgett or Malkin Athletic Center). Whenever there is a lifeguard on duty, you can ask them to give you the swim test for Sailing or Rowing.
Any affiliate wishing to join the sailing program must first successfully complete the Harvard swim test at the Blodgett Pool or Malkin Athletic Center Pool.
The swim test consists of:
- Jump or dive into deep water
- Surface and swim 100 continuous yards using either front crawl or breaststroke while demonstrating rhythmic breathing
- Tread water for 2 minutes.
You must be a current Harvard ID holder or an affiliate with a Harvard Athletic membership card in order to gain access to the Blodgett or MAC Pools to take the swim test.
Swim tests will be given during regular hours of operation at Blodgett and MAC Pool until 15 minutes prior to closing time. (You must show the lifeguard your Harvard ID, prior to taking the test.)
Lost Swim test cards will not be replaced. Swim test cards are valid for five years.
Proper swim attire must be worn; workout shorts, sports bra, etc. are not permitted in the pool. Showers are required before entering the pool.
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Guest Policy
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Members who are qualified to handle the boats are allowed to bring up to 2 guests. Members are responsible for their guests' ability to swim.
Personal Flotation Devices must be worn at all times by all parties on the water at HSC. They are provided.
Sailors are required to stow and secure all related equipment at the end of their session, unless they are instructed to leave the boat rigged by a staff member.
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