Experience the joy of learning to sail in the classic introductory boat, the Optimist Pram.

  • “ALL LEVEL” CAMPS (no previous experience required)
    Sailors will be introduced to basic sailing and safety skills. Our focus is on learn by doing and we start kids on the water right away, establishing their comfort on the water as we build fundamentals.
  • “NEXT LEVEL” CAMPS (all levels considered)
    These sailors have attended previous camps and are looking to take their sailing to the next level and build their confidence.
    New sailors who are comfortable on the water are also welcome in this course and will benefit from the previous experience of other sailors.

(If you have any questions or need clarification regarding classes, email Amy at scmmsails@gmail.com or call 757.297.6926 or Will at sailingdirector.scmm@gmail.com or call 407.230.8708)

Registration is $350. South Carolina Maritime Museum Friends will receive priority registration and discounted registration fee of $325.

To purchase a Sailing Camp Gift Certificate or inquire about available scholarships, call 843.520.0111 or email info@sc-mm.org.

Available Dates: 

June 2 – 6: All Levels (AM only)

June 9 – 13: All Levels (AM & PM)

June 16 – 20: All Levels (AM & PM)

June 23 – 27: All Levels (AM), Next Level/Repeats (PM)

July 7 – 11: All Levels (AM only)

July 14 – 18: Next Level/Repeat (AM & PM)

July 21 – 25: All Levels (AM), Next Level/Repeats (PM)

July 28 – 31: Learn to Regatta

All sailing camp registration will be completed online. AM sessions take place from 9 AM – 12 PM and PM sessions take place from 1 PM – 4 PM.

Register Here

What Will Campers Learn?

The SC Youth Sailing Camp will be fun while focusing on safety and experiential learning the following skills:

All Levels will focus on:

  • Safety Skills
  • Boat Entry and Exit
  • Capsize by Recovery
  • Steering and Sail trim

Next Levels will focus on:

  • Rigging Boats Independently
  • Beginner Racing Tactics

What to bring to camp:

  • Properly fitted Type III USCG approved life jacket
  • Whistle
  • Closed toe water shoes that will stay on while swimming
  • Towel
  • Sunscreen (already applied before camp)
  • Water bottle
  • Snack
  • Hat
  • Glasses/Sunglasses with lanyard
  • Cooling towel
  • Change of clothes

Why the Optimist Pram is the Perfect Boat for Young Sailors

The Optimist Pram is designed for sailors under 12 years old, making it one of the most popular and effective boats for teaching kids how to sail. Here’s why:

  • Safe & Stable: The Optimist’s design provides excellent stability, giving young sailors confidence on the water. Many kids love it because they feel secure and in control.
  • Versatile for All Skill Levels: The Optimist is safe and beginner-friendly for an 8-year-old while offering enough challenge to keep a 12-year-old engaged and improving.

About the Camp

We accept 12 campers per session. Registration is for children 8-12 years:

  • Camper must be able to swim 40 yards unassisted by any floatation device

Camp Information: 

  • Each camp will consist of five, half-days of sailing instruction, beginning on Monday and ending on Friday
  • Camp will be held at the SC Maritime Museum.
  • Campers will learn and review the essentials of sailing at different camp levels depending on the experience and skill level of the camper.