JUNIORS - CAMPS & PROGRAMS

Be Joyful and Courageous.

On a beautiful rural point of land on the lower Chesapeake Bay, our campers enjoy immediate access to both the calm, protected waters ideal for beginners and the deeper waters and bigger waves perfect for experienced sailors. As in generations past, our juniors discover dirt roads and picnic tables, screen porches and oysters, wildlife and wide-open spaces. Just as importantly, they don’t find resort luxuries—no air-conditioning, restaurants, or screens. Instead, they find a place to grow—through sailing, swimming, knot-tying, kayaking, navigation, and crabbing; through critter-catching, beach exploring, oceanography, tides, and currents; and most importantly, through laughter, friendship, courage, and grit.

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Founded in 1939, Fishing Bay Yacht Club has remained true to its mission:
“The object shall be the development of the art and science of sailing, the acquisition of knowledge of the theory and practice of seamanship, navigation, meteorology, and allied subjects.”

SUMMER CAMPS

Our summer sailing camps run for 9 weeks from mid-June to mid-August, with registration opening February 1. The season kicks off with Opti Kids and Junior Week, followed by Sailing School, Development Teams, and Race Team camps. See below for details on each program.

Summer Camp Overview

Week 1 – Opti Kids & Race Team
Week 2 – Junior Week
Weeks 3–9 – Sailing School, Development Team & Race Team

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Opti Kids Camp

Mid-June (two consecutive weekends)
For ages 5–7, this is the perfect first camp experience. Held in shallow water off our beach, the program introduces young children to the joy of sailing with fun, hands-on lessons—knot-tying, steering, sail adjustment, swimming, and games. Parents and guardians assist and join the fun in the water. Open to the public.

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Junior Week Camp

Late June, Monday–Friday
Ages 6–18. This flagship camp is the heart of our junior sailing program and the start of our summer. Campers choose from boats and experience levels:

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced Opti
Opti Racing
Beginner & Advanced Laser
420s
Explorers (larger boats)
Counselors-in-Training (CITs)

Staffed by top-tier national/international coaches, certified instructors, and dedicated volunteers. Evenings are full of fun—ice cream, pool parties, and family cookouts. Open to the public.

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Sailing School Camps

June through August (2 or 3 day sessions)
For ages 6–18 in groups of up to 10. Ideal for everyone from first-time sailors to teens refining their skills. Many campers attend multiple sessions, and programs are tailored to meet each sailor where they are. Open to the public.

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Development Team Camp

Late June through mid-August
Recommended as a follow-up to Junior Week, the Development Team bridges the gap between Sailing School and Race Team. Meeting Thursday–Sunday, the program is flexible—regattas and sessions are optional. Sailors can race locally without overnight travel and receive individualized coaching. Divided by age and experience to ensure a safe, supportive environment.

Opti Team: Ages 7–15
Laser Team: Ages 12–18
Open to the public.

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Race Teams in Opti, ILCA (Laser), & C420

Mid-June through mid-August
For ages 9–18, our Race Teams are nationally recognized and led by expert coaches. FBYC sailors consistently earn top rankings in the Chesapeake Bay Yacht Racing Association. These teams train and race across the region and nationally, with a focus on high-level competition and advanced racing technique. Practices and travel are intensive, with 1 day off per week. Sailors must be dedicated and eager to race.

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Junior Regattas at FBYC

FBYC Annual Junior Regatta
Late June, 2-day regatta following Junior Week. Welcomes all levels with Green Fleet coaching and support for first-time racers. Fleets include Opti (R/W/B), Laser Radials, and 420s. Club boats available (first-come, first-served).
AOD (Annual One-Design Regatta)
Late July, 2-day regatta with a fun atmosphere, live music, and mixed fleets. Juniors welcome on adult boats, with full support for junior classes.
Spring, Fall, & Frostbite Regattas
Additional regattas throughout the year for juniors in Optis, Lasers, and 420s.

All are welcome at FBYC camps and programs! Parents and guardians are encouraged to volunteer and be a part of the fun.