Programs and Classes

OPEN SAILING HOURS

Members of the Duluth-Superior Sailing Association have free access to our Day Sailer fleet during open sailing hours from June through September. They may captain any boat on which they have demonstrated competency, or may sail as crew with another member. The dock is normally open from noon til dusk, although it may be closed some days due to weather or special events. You can check our current open hours on our pier calender.

Members with cruise boat experience and training can access and reserve our auxiliary powered keel boats. Learn more on our cruise boat page.

YOUTH SAILING

Youth sailing and water activity camps are held at the DSSA Pier on Park Point throughout the summer. Camp tuition also includes an annual membership to the DSSA.

Schedule:

Weekly from 9am – 4pm beginning June 22th, see calender for dates.

Ages:

7-11 or 12-16 depending on the week (see calender).

8 person maximum per camp week.

Tuition:

$300 (Includes DSSA membership)

Lesson Material and Activities:

  • Sailing knowledge
  • Sailing skills
  • General seamanship skills
  • Prep for motorboat certification (ages 7-11)
  • Motorboat skills (ages 12-16)
  • Environmental awareness
  • Maritime history of Duluth and Lake Superior
  • Racing / Racing Rules
  • Rip Currents
  • Lightning
  • Weather

Swim Test Requirement:

All youth sailors must first pass a swim test. Swim tests are done at the start of each session, and include:

  • Swimming 50 yards
  • Treading water for two minutes
  • Demonstrating the ability to float

In place of a swim test, you can provide any of the following certifications: Boy Scouts Swimming or Lifesaving Merit Badge, Red Cross Intermediate (Level 3+), YMCA Fish, or certified instructor’s statement on established swimming/pool organization letterhead.

What to Bring:

  • Lunch & Water
  • Closed toed shoes (not sandals)
  • Swimsuit
  • Change of clothes
  • Sunscreen
  • Towel
  • Snacks (if desired)
  • Dress for the weather. It can get cold on the lake, even in August.
  • Life jacket if you prefer your own or else you can use ours.

Contact us for scheduling.

PRIVATE SAILING LESSONS

Private lessons with our certified instructors are available to members. Whether you are looking for a 2-hour refresher or a full blown “teach me to sail” course, we are happy to work with you to design individualized lessons. Lessons are scheduled by the hour and are available most days. Since lessons are based on staff availability, it is best to schedule early.

Cost:

$35/hour for one student.

$25/hour per person for 2-4 students.

What to Bring:

  • Closed toed shoes that can get wet
  • Warm clothes
  • Sunscreen
  • Water

Contact us for scheduling.

ACCESSIBLE SAILING

We partner with Courage Kenny Northland to provide sailing experiences and lessons for sailors with physical disabilities. We have proper equipment to handle most needs. For details on available programs and dates, contact Mr. Mark Hanna, Courage’s Sports and Recreation Coordinator, at 218-491-0585.

RACING

The DSSA will provide members with weekly races.   Sailors of all skill levels are welcome to participate. Members who are new to racing may come a bit early to go over the basics of the racing rules and practice starts.  Races will be held on Friday nights with the first start at 5:30 PM. See the pier calendar and the race documents below for more details.

Notice of Race

If you are interested in learning more about racing techniques or performance sailing, contact us to set up private lessons.

COMMUNITY SAILING

Our programs are open to community organizations. If you are interested in providing a sailing experience for your youth, adult, or work group, contact us for scheduling and pricing. Reduced rates are available to organizations that serve individuals with financial need.