Junior Program: Learn to Love Sailing
SSA Junior Sailing Program
We offer a diverse array of programs for sailors ages 5 through High School.
Check out our classes, clinics, and regatta schedule.
Optimist
ages 5-15
Whether you’re looking for a class for a first-time sailor or a fast-paced race team to hone your optimist skills, we have a program for you! Our optimist classes range from Harbor Rookies to our RWB Race Team, featuring some of the best coaching in the area!
29er
ages 14-18
The 29er is currently the boat of choice for doublehanded skiff at U.S. Youth Champs and continues to grow within the CBYRA circuit as well as across the nation. Lead by Caroline Atwood and her team of high performance coaches, our Development Team and Travel Team attend events locally, nationally, and internationally.
420
ages 14-18
With multiple teams to fit a wide variety of skill levels, our 420 program remains a staple stepping stone to competitive High School and College sailing. Lead by former and current college sailors, our Travel Team attends events around the Chesapeake Bay as well as around the country!
(Race Team not offered 2025. See details below.)
Laser
ages 15-18
Our competitive Laser team is one of the best in the area, coached by top-tier local coaches, and perfect for sailors looking to improve their boathandling, racing strategy, and gain a competitive edge.
Ava Farley and Will Harding throwing in a roll tack at the Sandy MacVickar Regatta.
SSA has been a national and international leader in junior sailing for over 50 years
Thousands of sailors have come through our program and emerged with sailing as a lifelong passion, and continue to enjoy it through ocean/coastal cruising, one-design racing, grand prix racing, and day sailing.
SSA Event Calendar
We provide a safe and engaging learning environment for young sailors to…
Learn about safe boat handling, seamanship, and sportsmanship
gain accredited techniques of one-design racing and to fully develop their racing skill (strategically and physically)
promote youth sailing competition and the sense of community which surrounds sailing
Safety, Fun & Success
Important Links
Check out what we’ve been up to!
