Sailing Buddies Network

Looking for sailing buddies? The Sailing Buddies Skipper/Crew Network (SBN) is a register of Sail Chicago members who are actively looking for people with whom to sail. If you like to sail as skipper or crew, please register, so other SBN registrants know you’ll welcome their calls.

The SBN program is open to any Sail Chicago member, student to experienced skipper, on all Rhodes 19 and Motor Cruiser boats. Your name, phone numbers, skill level, sailing temperament and boat types will be listed. At your convenience, you may call other sailors and initiate a boat reservation. You will receive a list of all registrants and their pertinent information.

See the Sail Chicago Handbook for more information

Urban Youth Sailing

Over the last 25 years the Urban Youth Sailing Program has shared sailing skills with hundreds of less-privileged kids. Once a week volunteers give inner city kids a chance to do something totally outside their limited experience -sail on Lake Michigan.

The mission of UYSP is to give disadvantaged youth an opportunity to practice cooperation, build confidence, realize untapped potential and expand their horizons.

When does the Program Go Out?

Tuesday afternoons, beginning 1pm for about two hours or so, Tuesday, July 10 through the end of August.

Do Skippers Sail Every Tuesday?

No. We are glad to have volunteers.

Where do the Kids Come From?

They are young people enrolled in programs of the Association House of Chicago, one of Chicago ’s oldest settlement houses that serves the near-northwest population.

How are the Kids Supervised?

One supervisor from the Association House sails in each boat to provide behavior supervision. Sail Chicago ’s skipper’s only responsibilities are to sail safely, provide minimal explanation of the principles of sailing, and, under favorable circumstances, let the kids take the tiller.

What Skills Should Skippers Possess?

Hopefully skippers are kid-friendly. At least one year’s experience as a certified skipper is required. Skippers with less experience can assist.

Skippers see the Sail Chicago Handbook for more information.