As summer approaches, parents everywhere are on the lookout for fun, meaningful activities to keep their kids busy — and if you’ve been hearing a lot more about youth sailing programs lately, it’s for good reason. Programs like Dana West Youth Sailing (DWYS) in Dana Point aren’t just about learning to sail; they’re about building lifelong skills, making new friends, and spending unforgettable days out on the water.
Founded 25 years ago as a summer camp for Dana West Yacht Club members and their families, Dana West Youth Sailing has blossomed into a 501I(3) nonprofit offering year-round opportunities for young sailors. “Our mission has always been to provide kids with valuable skills and experiences,” said Mark Williams of the DWYS team. “Now, with the full support of Dana West Yacht Club, we’ve grown into something that serves the whole community — and even launched a 29er high-performance program aimed at preparing sailors for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.”
At the heart of the DWYS program is a focus on foundational boat handling, a set of skills that stays with students for life. “This includes knot tying, understanding boat parts, and how the wind affects the boat,” explained Williams. “It’s knowledge that applies to boats of all sizes, from dinghies to large cruisers. These skills are permanently retained and transferable.”
Safety is, of course, a top priority. Before they ever set sail, new students learn the parts of the boat on dry land, practice knot tying, and master how to work with the wind. Every child wears a personal flotation device at all times, and on the first day, sailors take a swim test where they must demonstrate how to tread water and swim away from a capsized boat. “A couple of sailors even capsize their boats intentionally, so everyone can see what to do,” said Williams. DWYS also maintains an impressive 1:5 coach-to-sailor ratio, with all lead coaches certified by US Sailing.
The structure of the summer program makes it easy for kids of all experience levels to jump in. “On the first day, we assess everyone’s abilities and group them accordingly to make sure they get the right level of training and challenge,” Williams said. “Above all, we want the week to be fun.” Beginners can enjoy a supportive introduction to sailing, while more experienced sailors can sharpen their skills — and for those who really catch the sailing bug, DWYS offers a year-round racing program to keep them growing long after summer ends.
The rogramm’s evolution over the past few years has been remarkable. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, DWYS shortened its summer camp to one-week sessions and opened enrollment to the broader community, allowing even more young sailors to experience the thrill of life on the water. Today, the program hosts around 100 to 120 sailors each summer, making it one of the most vibrant youth sailing initiatives in the area.
In a world where summer camps can sometimes feel routine, Dana West Youth Sailing offers something truly special: the chance for kids to develop confidence, independence, and a lifelong connection to the ocean. Whether they’re dreaming of Olympic glory or simply looking for a new adventure, young sailors at DWYS are guaranteed a summer they’ll never forget.
For parents seeking a fresh, exciting option this summer, youth sailing isn’t just a great camp — it’s the beginning of a lifetime of adventure.
