ADAPTIVE SAILING PROGRAM
LEARN TO SAIL - CELEBRATE ABILITY - EMBRACE ADVENTURE
At Community Sailing School @ Pistakee, our Adaptive Sailing Program opens the door to the exhilaration of sailing for individuals of all ages and abilities. Whether you live with a physical, cognitive, developmental, or sensory challenge — or simply know someone who does — our program is built on the principle that the wind and water belong to everyone.
What you’ll experience
What you’ll experience
- Enjoy a multi-session course specially designed to teach fundamental sailing skills in an inclusive, supportive environment.
- Learn how to rig the sailboat, launch and land safely, steer, and trim the sails — all at your own pace, with expert instructors by your side.
- Sail across serene Pistakee Bay on the Chain O’Lakes, mastering wind and water while growing personal confidence and teamwork.
- Build skills on shore as well — including knot-tying, understanding wind and weather, and collaborating with crew members.
- Participate in a community where everyone is welcome. We tailor our lessons to meet your individual needs and help you succeed regardless of ability.
- Sailing isn’t just a sport — it’s a pathway to independence, connection, and empowerment.
- Our program addresses real barriers by providing an outdoor, hands-on experience many rarely access — helping to satisfy the need for inclusive recreation and learning opportunities in McHenry County and beyond.
- Through partnerships with organizations such as Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA) and the Pioneer Center for Human Services, we ensure robust support and accessibility for students with diverse needs.
- Open to students of all abilities and backgrounds. No prior sailing experience is required.
- Designed to be fun, safe, and transformational — our instructors provide personalized attention, creating a caring atmosphere where learners thrive.
Adaptive Sailing Classes
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30am - 11:30am (4 session in June, repeated in July)
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30pm - 7:30pm (4 session in June, repeated in July)
Wednesdays, 10:30am - 1:00pm (4 sessions total, 2 in June, 2 in July)
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 9:30am - 11:30am (4 session in June, repeated in July)
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30pm - 7:30pm (4 session in June, repeated in July)
Wednesdays, 10:30am - 1:00pm (4 sessions total, 2 in June, 2 in July)
NEWS HEADLINES
Posted May 9, 2024
NORTHWEST HERALD FEATURES ADAPTIVE SAILING INSTRUCTOR TRAINING COURSE
NORTHWEST HERALD FEATURES ADAPTIVE SAILING INSTRUCTOR TRAINING COURSE
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Posted April 23, 2025
According to the US Sailing Association, the Community Sailing School @ Pistakee is "The Best Kept Secret in the US". |
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OUR PARTNERSHIPS
The Community Sailing School @ Pistakee has partnered with three nonprofit organizations that provide programs for individuals with disabilities. In an effort to be an all-inclusive sailing school, we offer sailing lessons through the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA), the Pioneer Center for Human Services, and Shriners Children's Hospitals.
The Community Sailing School @ Pistakee has partnered with three nonprofit organizations that provide programs for individuals with disabilities. In an effort to be an all-inclusive sailing school, we offer sailing lessons through the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association (NISRA), the Pioneer Center for Human Services, and Shriners Children's Hospitals.
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Posted March 6, 2025
The Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association recognized the Community Sailing School @ Pistakee as the "Exceptional Community Partner 2024". |