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Sailing Programs

For more than 50 years, young people have come to Mystic Seaport each summer to sail on the Mystic River and sleep on a tall ship. Learning by doing - in a friendly and supportive atmosphere -- is the cornerstone of the Joseph Conrad overnight summer sailing program.

No matter your age or your skill level, sailing at Mystic Seaport is an unparalleled experience. Choose from one of our many sailing programs:

Community Sailing Programs and Racing Series

Junior Sailing On the water or in the classroom, our community sailing instructors are certified, experienced sailors eager to pass on their years of sailing experience. Mystic Seaport offers a full lineup of sailing programs: Youth, Adult, Family, and Homeschool. You can even test what you’ve learned in a weekly racing series.

Schooner Brilliant Sailing Program

Brilliant Learn to sail aboard our famous, prize-winning 62-foot schooner Brilliant as you take the helm, raise the sails, stand watch, and navigate into beautiful New England harbors. As part of the oldest sail education program in the country, Brilliant teaches adults and teens (15-18) traditional nautical skills and other lessons of the sea. Teen sails are scheduled during the summer and adult sails are offered during the spring and fall. Register for a scheduled sail, or charter the boat for your group.

Joseph Conrad Summer Sailing Camp

Conrad Camp Since 1949, the Joseph Conrad Summer Sailing Camp has been the overnight summer camp of choice for more than 350 campers annually. Living aboard the majestic tall ship, Joseph Conrad, your 10-15 year old will learn the rules of the sea while sailing our fleet of 50 Dyer Dhows. Become part of the crew and reserve a bunk today.

Dyer Dhow Fleet

Sailing Dyer DhowsThe Mariner Training Program at Mystic Seaport began in 1950 with six Dyer Dhows donated from local yacht clubs. Now through the continued generosity of clubs and individuals, Mystic Seaport is home to the largest active fleet of 9-foot Dyer Dhows in the world! Used as part of Community Sailing and the Conrad sailing program, thousands have learned to sail and continue to race these Dyers regularly.