Gulf Shore Sailing was founded in 2015
and is a not-for-profit 501c (3) organization offering sailing instruction to
children and adults. We believe sailing is an adventure for a
lifetime. While learning to sail, children learn life skills that will
endure. Sailing challenges and builds confidence by taking children
outdoors, out of their comfort zone, and into a world of wind and water.
They learn to rig and pilot their sailboats on beautiful Charlotte
Harbor. Gulf Shore Sailing’s success is measured in the competence,
discipline, responsibility, and leadership skills that blossom in our
students. All of this is also available to adults who join our rapidly
growing adult classes.
Join us as a student, parent, volunteer, or donor as we sail
Charlotte Harbor. A team of seasoned volunteers by certified US Sailing
Instructors backs up instruction. Safety is taught before sailing
starts. We have a fleet of safety boats that deploy before the first
sailboat is launched. All sailors must pass a swim test before
instruction can begin, life jackets are mandatory, and we always have our eye
on the weather.
GULF SHORE SAILING INC. is an all-volunteer, not-for-profit 501(c)(3)
organization established in 2015. We teach small boat sailing in a safe,
fun, and educational waterfront environment by sharing our skills, knowledge,
and resources with youth and adults in the Southwest Florida area. We reside
at the Bayfront Center at 750 W Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.
SAFETY – All
activities emphasize our commitment to safe boating practices while teaching
the essential elements of sailboat handling, water safety skills, and respect
for changing weather conditions.
FUN – We strive
to create a healthy, enjoyable learning experience for all students during
their introduction to sailing programs. Enjoyment breeds enthusiasm.
EDUCATION – Our core purpose
is teaching the fundamentals of sailing. We provide quality direction, coaching,
and low-cost instruction in small sailboats on Charlotte Harbor, while at the
same time recognizing and emphasizing our responsibility as stewards of the
environment.
TEAMWORK – Our team of
diverse adult volunteers delivers meaningful sailing instruction afloat and
ashore, emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, open communication, respect, and
cooperation. Student coaches help novice sailors in the learning process.
LEADERSHIP – Our efforts
in a positive environment inspire those under instruction to learn more, do
more, and become more confident as sailors. Knowledge and enthusiasm build
self-confidence as sailing skills improve, and mutual respect grows.