The centerpiece of Clearwater’s education program is the Sailing Classroom Program. The deck of a traditional sailing ship is a uniquely powerful platform for students to learn about the river’s natural wonders and cultural significance. For many, this is the introduction to the Hudson River and environmental education which can forge a connection with nature to last a lifetime.
On a three or five hour sail onboard the sloop Clearwater or the schooner Mystic Whaler, students have the opportunity to help raise the sails, navigate the boat, visit learning stations to examine riverlife, perform water quality tests, and study plankton and other invertebrate life under field magnification. Our inquiry-based learning activities are hands-on, relevant, and fun!
The Sailing Classroom Programs are designed for school groups, camps, scout troops or community organizations and are appropriate for grades 4-college. Sails for youth in grades 4 through High School can accommodate a maximum of 50 passengers, including all students, teachers and chaperones. Sails for adults and college students can accommodate a maximum of 45 passengers.
Bring your class or youth group onboard for our “Sailing Classroom” program.
Detailed information about our pioneering onboard education programs- including curriculum options and program overviews- can be found here.
Booking Group Sails:
Click here for the 2013 Group Sail Application form, and be sure to read all of the 2013 Sail Guidelines.
- If you are submitting an application to sail in spring 2013, have a look at our schedule to verify that your date is available.
- If you are submitting an application to sail in summer or fall 2013, complete your application with a range of acceptable dates and docks. Be sure to advise us of any black-out dates when your group cannot sail.
- Submit your application via e-mail, mail, or fax. Make sure that you receive a confirmation from us: if we haven’t sent you a confirmation, we haven’t received your application!
- Once your application has been processed, you will receive your contract package. Please return one signed copy and your Sail Program Information sheet immediately.
- Payment is due 8 weeks prior to your program.
Program Cost and Funding Opportunities
The cost of 3-hour educational group sails in 2013 is $1,250. This fee includes all costs associated with our boat-based educational programs. Transportation costs are the responsibility of the applicant.
Clearwater is able to offer a limited number of partial scholarships to schools and groups serving youth in underserved and environmental justice communities. Contact the Sail Program Manager for further information and for application guidelines.
Your educational trip aboard sloop Clearwater may be eligible for assistance through BOCES. Check with your local BOCES office for more information.
Teaching the Hudson Valley is offering Explore Awards for which Clearwater trips are eligible. Find the application guidelines here.
Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley offer field trip grants to schools in Dutchess and Ulster Counties for which Clearwater trips are eligible. Application deadlines are September 30th and October 31st. Find the application guidelines here.
Target offers field trip grants for which Clearwater trips are eligible. Find the application guidelines here.
Additional Information
If you have additional questions about sailing, please check our frequently asked questions page, or contact Catherine Stankowski, Sail Program Manager at 845-265-8080 , ext 7107, or by e-mail sent to catherine@clearwater.org.
