Learn to Sail and Race
Youth Sailing Camps (Grades 2–Age 13)
The Oshkosh Yacht Club is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit sailing school offering a value‑priced community sailing opportunity for youth.
About the program
Students sail the International Optimist Dinghy (“Opti”)—a perfect youth boat: simple for new sailors, yet adaptable for more advanced skippers. Our programs focus on racing fundamentals and the lifelong enjoyment of sailing as a community activity. On the water, students build problem‑solving skills and apply STEM concepts in real‑time decision‑making. Parents are encouraged to be hands‑off while classes are in session.
Location & weather
Classes are filled on a first‑come, first‑served basis and are held rain or shine at the OYC Harbor and Clubhouse at The Waters.
Address: 1393 Washington Avenue, Oshkosh
All classes and OYC‑sanctioned regattas include use of OYC Optimist sailboats.
Programs & pricing
Learn to Sail Camp (Beginner) — $250
For children ages 8–11, including newcomers and returning sailors who want to refine fundamentals before moving to Learn to Race. Goals include having fun, building comfort on the water, and developing core sailing skills with an emphasis on water safety. Students who excel may be invited to move into Learn to Race (held at the same time). Families are encouraged to register for more than one session.
Sessions: One-week sessions (Monday–Thursday)
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Weather: Rain or shine
Best for: First-time beginners and repeat beginners
Beginner camp sessions:
#1: June 15–18
#2: June 22–25
#3: June 29–July 2
#4: July 6–9
#5: July 13–16
Learn to Race Camp (Intermediate) - $250
For sailors ages 9–12 who have mastered basic sailing skills and are comfortable sailing alone. Sailors build confidence while learning to manage their boat across a variety of wind conditions and begin developing racing strategy. This class is held at the same time as the Learn to Sail (Beginner) camp.
Enrollment by recommendation or a conversation with the coordinator/coach.
Intermediate camp sessions:
#6: June 15–18
#7: June 22–25
#8: June 29–July 2
#9: July 6–9
#10: July 13–16
Regattas
We offer two off‑lake regattas. Our coaches coordinate Opti transportation and provide on‑the‑water coaching.
July 20: No Tears Regatta (Okauchee Lake, Oconomowoc)
August 1: Pram Power (North Lake, Hartland)
Regatta coaching fee: $75 per boat, per regatta. This helps cover Opti transportation, coach lodging, and travel time. Regatta entry fees are not included.
Team Oshkosh (Advanced Opti Racing Traveling Team) - $310
For sailors ages 9–13 who want a higher‑challenge, racing‑focused program. Training includes advanced drills, classroom debriefs, and video feedback to help sailors improve race performance. Students are encouraged to travel to regattas hosted by sailing clubs in the region.
On‑Lake Opti Camp Classes
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Dates: June 15–17, June 29–30, July 1–2, July 15, July 20–23
These dates have no conflict with Opti or X‑Boat regattas.
Team Oshkosh regattas: Coaches coordinate Opti transportation and provide on‑the‑water coaching at events. (Regatta coaching fee is $75 per boat, per regatta; entry fees not included.)
June 22: Lake Beulah Sailing School Regatta (Lake Beulah)
July 8–9: GLSS – Lake Geneva Sailing School Regatta
July 24–26: Inland Lake Yachting Association Opti Championships (Clear Lake)
Sailors enrolled in this class are strongly encouraged to participate in Opti Monday evening fleet racing (details below).
Opti Fleet Racing
Season fee: $50 (Optis and race PRO are included in the fee)
Who can participate: Open to all sailors enrolled in an OYC Opti sailing class
When: Monday evenings at 6:00 p.m. (June 8 – August 10)
Why: A fun way to practice and build skills through racing
Race finish points are cumulative throughout the season—the more you participate, the better your chance of winning the overall trophy awarded at Cup Night (annual awards presentation in late fall). Fleet racing is also a great opportunity for families to watch their sailor and enjoy outdoor summer dining. Learn more about the benefits of joining the Oshkosh Yacht Club.
Contact
Questions? Contact Kate: info@oshkoshyachtclub.org | 920-420-8874
Junior or Family Racing Membership is required for Team Opti and Opti Monday Night Fleet Races