Optimists (Optis) – 7′ 7″ long, Single-handed dinghy. Vanguard reports: “Designed for sailors weighing 50-120 lbs., the Optimist Dinghy has become the world standard for introductory junior trainers. Optimist sailors learn the essential steering and sail-trimming skills necessary to continue in the sport of sailing. Its flat, stable hull provides an unintimidating introduction to sailing; and, as young sailors progress, they can graduate to the Optimist racing circuit. With a simple rig and a light, durable hull, Vanguard Optimists have become the #1 choice of junior sailors.” Used by many sailing schools and specifically designed for children!
SailCubes and OPPIs, which are similar to the Optis, are also available for training.
Club 420’s – 13′ 9″ long. Double-handed dinghy. Vanguard reports: “Ideal for crews ranging in size from 220-310 lbs., the Club 420 is manageable for sailors coming out of the Optimist class and enables young sailors to learn teamwork, trapeze, and spinnaker techniques. The stable, forgiving hull is built tough with reinforced fiberglass, high impact bumpers, and a simple, untapered rig. The Club 420 is simple and safe for beginning sailors and yet quick enough to keep collegiate All-Americans interested.”
Laser: Lasers are the newest addition to our Fleet. We currently have 4 and are working to integrate these into our Race Program. The Laser is a 13′ 9″ long single handed dingy designed with an emphasis on simplicity and performance. Several sail sizes can be fitted to accommodate varying crew weights and wind conditions. Laser sailing offers an exciting performance option for sailors coming out of the Optimus or 420 classes.
J/24: Our J/24 is a one-design 24′ keelboat. It is used for adult classes and Keelboat: Learn to Sail and Learn to Race classes.
Our program is based on the US Sailing training system. Students always wear life jackets. Instructors, either in the student’s boat or on a safety boat, accompany the students. All instructors are experienced sailors, many having learned to sail in the SJJF Summer Sailing Program.