Question 1

Do I have to be a member of Bayview Yacht Club in order for my child to participate?

Accepted Answer

No!  While Team Bayview operates out of Bayview Yacht Club, you do not need to be a member in order for your child to participate.

Question 2

For racing sailors, what does a typical regatta look like?

Accepted Answer

Once the sailing season begins, racing sailors will travel to weekly regattas held at other local yacht clubs, such as Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, Crescent Sail Yacht Club, Detroit Yacht Club and Pontiac Yacht Club.  Each regatta typically spans two-days, with sailors competing in a series of individual races against boats of the same style.  At the end of the regatta, the points from all individual races are added up, and the lowest point total determines the winners.  An awards reception usually follows racing on on the second day, where flags or plaques given to the top three sailors in each class.  On racing days, sailors arrive earlier (8:00 am) and may leave a bit later in the day depending on the schedule of events.  Racing usually kicks off at 10 am, with the last race scheduled around 3 pm.  Sailors should bring a bag lunch each day which will be collected by their coach and eaten on the water.   Parents are encouraged to watch racing from the yacht club shoreline and attend awards ceremonies!

Question 3

What happens if there's no wind or if the weather is bad, like rain or thunderstorms?

Accepted Answer

Safety is our top priority. If there is no wind, we focus on sailing-related activities that enhance our sailors' skills, such as boat handling, knot tying, racing strategy, and team-building exercises. We might also have fun games or on-shore lessons to keep everyone engaged and learning.

If it's raining but there are no thunderstorms, we may still go out on the water, provided conditions are safe. However, if thunderstorms or severe weather are present, we immediately move to indoor activities to ensure everyone's safety. These activities could include videos, quizzes, interactive discussions about tactics and rules, or even watching a sailing-related movie.

If the weather conditions lead to an entire day being washed out, you may elect to pick up your child early. Our goal is to make sure that all sailors have a productive and enjoyable day, regardless of the weather.

Question 4

What are the age requirements?

Accepted Answer

Our program is open to children aged 8-18.

Question 5

Does my child need their own boat?

Accepted Answer

No!  Our program has a fleet of Club 420s, Optimists, Lasers, and Ultimate 20s.

Question 6

What gear will my child need?

Accepted Answer

Your child will need their own USCG approved life jacket (PDF) with an attached whistle,  sunscreen and water bottle.  It is also recommended your child have a pair of sunglasses and a digital watch with a countdown timer (racing sailors).

Question 7

Does my child need to bring lunch?

Accepted Answer

Children can either bring a bag lunch daily, or order hot lunch Tuesday-Friday from the yacht club off a limited menu.  The yacht club kitchen is closed on Mondays and thus pizza is ordered from a local pizzeria at $1 (cash) a slice.   For non-members ordering hot lunch from the yacht club Tuesday-Friday, a credit card will be required to have on file.

Question 8

What physical requirements are there in order to participate?

Accepted Answer

Although sailors are required to wear their life jackets on all docks and boats, it is required that your child be a strong and capable swimmer.

Question 9

What are the hours of the program?

Accepted Answer

The daily hours of the program run from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM daily.  Note, for racing sailors on regatta days, the drop off and pick up times may be extended slightly.

Question 10

What is your refund policy?

Accepted Answer

100% of tuition will be refunded due to cancellation up to May 1st. 
75% of tuition will be refunded due to cancellations up to June 1st.
50% of tuition will be refunded due to cancellations after session start date.

FAQs