Young Tadpoles sailors in a dinghy at the Rush Creek dock

Youth Sailing

Tadpole Sailing

Pre-beginner sailing for ages 5 to 8. The first step on the water for young sailors at Rush Creek.

About the Program

Learn. Sail. Race. Grow.

Tadpoles is designed for the youngest sailors, ages 5 to 8, who have never been on a sailboat. Instruction is playful and confidence-building, not performance-focused. Coaches keep groups small so every child gets personal attention.

Young sailors explore the harbor in small boats, learn what makes a sailboat move, and spend time in the pool building comfort around the water. Friday afternoons include a short sailing demonstration for parents.

9:00–9:30 am

Arrival

12:00 pm

Pickup

4:00 pm

General Camp

Mon – Fri

Days

Register Your Sailor
Young Tadpoles sailors in a boat in the Rush Creek pool overlooking Lake Ray Hubbard

What They Learn

Wind Awareness

Learn to feel and read the wind. The foundation of every sailing skill that follows.

Boat Familiarization

Parts of the boat, knot tying, and how sails work. Hands-on from day one.

Harbor Sailing

Supervised sailing in the protected RCYC harbor in small, stable boats sized for young sailors.

Water Safety

What to do if you go in, how a life jacket works, and building confidence around the water.

Youth sailors in colorful Optimist dinghies during Rush Creek sailing camp

Good to Know

What to Expect

  • Swim test required on day one: jump in, swim across the pool, put a life jacket on in the water.
  • All boats, life jackets, and equipment are provided.
  • Sunscreen, rash guard, and a change of clothes recommended.
  • Sessions run rain or shine. Weather delays are communicated by 7am.
  • Available as part of Summer Camp or as a standalone program.

Ready to Sign Up?

Contact us to register for Tadpole Sailing or ask about upcoming session dates and pricing.

Register Your Sailor