If you’ve spent time along the Havre de Grace waterfront, you know there’s something special about the place where the Susquehanna River meets the Chesapeake Bay. The breeze off the water, the sound of sails catching wind, and the energy of boats moving across the horizon create a unique environment that feels both adventurous and peaceful.
For many local families, that experience begins at the Havre de Grace Youth Sailing Program, a nonprofit summer sailing camp that introduces young people to the water, builds confidence, and teaches lifelong skills.
What starts as curiosity often turns into a passion — for sailing, for the outdoors, and for our local waterways.
The Story Behind the Program
The Havre de Grace Youth Sailing Program began as a small pilot program in 2016 with just a handful of students learning to sail during a week-long session. Since then, it has grown into a thriving nonprofit organization serving hundreds of young sailors each year from Harford County and the surrounding region.
The program is supported by an all-volunteer board, community supporters, and certified sailing instructors who are passionate about teaching both the technical and personal skills that come with being on the water.
Located at Hutchins Memorial Park along the Havre de Grace waterfront, the camp takes full advantage of the unique location where the Susquehanna River meets the Chesapeake Bay — a perfect natural classroom for learning to sail.
Who Is the Camp For?
The Havre de Grace Youth Sailing Program welcomes campers ages 7 through 17, and no prior sailing experience is required.
Some children arrive having never stepped on a sailboat before, while others return each summer to continue building their skills and confidence on the water.
Throughout the program, campers learn:
- Basic sailing and boat handling
- Water safety and boating awareness
- Teamwork and communication
- Wind awareness and navigation
- Respect for the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem
Beyond the technical skills, the camp focuses heavily on personal development. Sailing requires problem-solving, patience, and teamwork — qualities that benefit kids long after they leave the dock.
What Does a Typical Day of Camp Look Like?
Each day begins with instruction on land where campers learn the fundamentals of sailing, including wind direction, boat parts, and safety procedures.
Once they’re ready, campers head out onto the water with instructors guiding them as they practice steering, trimming sails, and navigating changing wind conditions.
Students quickly learn that sailing is a team sport. Communication and cooperation are essential, and campers naturally build friendships as they learn together.
There’s plenty of excitement too. Between windy days, splashes, and the occasional capsize, the experience is both educational and full of adventure.
By the end of camp, many students who started the week unsure of themselves are confidently sailing across the water.
A Parent’s Perspective
As a volunteer board member — and a local parent — I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this program can be.
Last summer, my own children, ages 9 and 12, attended the camp. What stood out to me wasn’t just that they learned how to sail. The program teaches so much more than that.
Kids gain independence on the water, an important life skill that builds both confidence and responsibility. They develop camaraderie with other campers, learn teamwork, and strengthen their swimming and water safety skills along the way.
As a mom, it’s incredibly rewarding to watch your children learn skills that you know you may never possess yourself. Our job as parents is to raise children who are stronger, smarter, and more capable versions of ourselves — and experiences like this help make that happen.
Seeing them come home excited about what they accomplished on the water was something I’ll never forget.
Learn More About Havre de Grace Youth Sailing
The Havre de Grace Youth Sailing Program runs summer sessions each year and continues to grow thanks to strong community support.
Families interested in learning more about registration, camp sessions, scholarships, or volunteer opportunities can visit:
https://hdgyouthsailing.org
HdGYouthSailing@gmail.com
Spots fill quickly each summer, and the program welcomes both new sailors and returning campers.
For kids looking to build confidence, learn real-world skills, and experience the beauty of the Chesapeake Bay from the water, the Havre de Grace Youth Sailing Program offers an unforgettable opportunity.
