Q: Is membership at the White Bear Yacht Club required to register for sailing classes?
A: No. The White Bear Sailing School is its own non-profit organization, which is independent of the Yacht Club. The sailing school is located on the Yacht Club property. 

Q: Do you offer scholarships? 
A: Yes! We strongly believe sailing is for everyone, no matter what. We are able to offer partial and full scholorships based on individual cases. Please reach out to WBSS Director, Julia Ainley, for more information. 

Q: What should my sailor bring to sailing class? 
A: All sailors need to bring a lifejacket, sunscreen, towel, and change of clothes. Shoes must be closed-backed (no flip-flops).  We strongly encourage sailors to also bring a water bottle and snack (lunch for all day camps is required). 

Q: What class should my child take? 
A: Young sailors ages 7-11 with no sailing experience should start in our Opti camp or classes. Kids ages 12-17 with no experience should take 420 camp or classes. Your child's instructor will then help you determine the next best opportunity for your child. 

Q: What do you do if it is raining/bad weather?
A: We take weather and safety very seriously. We will sail if it is raining, however our staff monitors the weather closely. If there is thunder/lightning, high winds, or worse, we make a decision for all sailors to immediately get off the water and to safety. There may be a day where we have clear skies but very high winds, which can result in us pulling younger and less-experienced sailors from the water for their and our own safety. 

Q: What happens if my child has to retake a class? 
A: Retaking classes is extremely common. Many kids take beginner or intermediate classes more than once in order to master the skills necessary to move on. Sailing takes patience and time, so retaking classes is helpful to becoming proficient. 

Q: How, can I as a parent, help my sailor? 
A: The best thing you can do to help your child outside of class is to ask them what they are learning, communicate with your child's instructors, and ask questions if you are unsure. Our staff are enthusiastic about teaching sailing knowledge to people of all ages! 

Q: How can I become more involved in the Sailing School? 
A: Parent volunteers are always needed! Please reach out to our instructors, race coaches, or waterfront director to ask questions or get involved. We are here to help and would love to partner with you! 

You can contact us by email at sailwbss@gmail.com, by phone at 651-336-0731, or by stopping into the Sailing School office between the hours of 9 AM-5 PM, Monday through Thursday during the summer.