Welcome to Piers Park Sailing Center
Piers Park Sailing Center welcomes everyone to experience the water. We offer accessible sailing programs, marine science education and community connection for all ages and abilities, from youth programs to sailing classes and passes.
Who Can Join In?
At Piers Park Sailing Center, we believe sailing should be open, accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you're brand new or building confidence, we meet you where you're at and support you every step of the way.
Young people
We create a fun, supportive environment where young sailors can learn at their own pace. Our instructors offer friendly guidance and hands-on activities to help young people feel safe, capable and excited to be on the water.
Adults
It's never too late to start sailing, or to fall back in love with it. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refresh your skills, our adult programs are welcoming, relaxed and tailored to your comfort level and goals.
Groups
From team-building days to group outings, we offer memorable on-the-water experiences for teams of all kinds. We adapt each session to suit your group's needs, creating a fun, inclusive way to connect and try something new together.
Youth Programs
Our youth programs introduce young people to the harbor through hands-on sailing, science, and outdoor learning. Designed for local youth, these programs build confidence, curiosity and connection to nature while developing skills on and off the water.
Harbor Explorers
A hands-on marine ecology program teaching how to trap lobsters and crabs, spot jellyfish, use underwater cameras, and fish off the dock. Expect a mix of sailing, kayaking, games, marine science, local history and crafts.
Enroll on Harbor Explorers
Science of Sailing
An educational program that supports STEM learning beyond the classroom, connects theory to real-world application, and fosters a lasting interest in science through exploration of the natural environment.
Sign up to Science of Sailing
Sailing After School
This program teaches the fundamentals of sailing. Participants learn rigging, steering and water safety while building confidence with every session.
Sign up to Sailing after School
Teen Training Program
Our training, mentoring and employment program that prepares teens for full-time summer work and part time after school work at Piers Park.
Apply for our Teen ProgramClasses and Passes
Our lessons and passes make it easy for individuals, families, and groups to get out on the water. Whether you're brand new to sailing or looking to build your skills, check out our flexible options to help you learn at your own pace.
Kayak Pass
Unlimited kayak access for the 2025 season. Perfect for those who want to explore Boston Harbor at their own pace. Includes all kayaking equipment and safety gear
Buy a Kayak Pass
Hardy Sailor Season Pass
Perfect if you love bracing cold-air sailing, want consistent practice through the shoulder months, or simply want to make the most of Boston Harbor year-round.
Book pass
Learn to Sail
Learn the fundamentals of sailing including terminology, boat preparation, safety precautions, wind and weather, rigging, knots, boat handling, sail trim, emergency procedures, and basic navigation.
Find out more
Monthly Sailing Pass
Sailing passes are available to those who successfully complete our Learn to Sail program. Experienced sailors may also complete a ‘check out’ test to bypass the Learn to Sail program.
Monthly Sailing Pass detailsPassholder Reservations
If you already have a valid sailing pass you can book boats on our reservations page. Boats can be booked for a minimum of one hour, with the option to add additional time if available.
Piers Park
Piers Park is a beautiful waterfront park with stunning views across the harbor to downtown Boston. A 600-foot promenade leads to shaded areas, gathering spots and historical monuments. The park also has a playground, amphitheater and outdoor fitness area - perfect for relaxing, playing, and taking in the views.
Testimonials
What participants and families have to say about their time with Piers Park Sailing Center.
Great sailing center, boats are clean and well maintained and a trip around the harbor gives great views of all of Boston
I feel so lucky to have found this place. The instructors made sailing feel like an incredible adventure. I was a complete beginner, and now I'm building my skills and confidence with every visit. My kids love it too - it's become our weekend family basis.
Our kid loves the programs at Piers Park. Camp was so much fun and so educational and so well run that our kid signed up for the fall programs and wants to go back next summer. Piers Park Sailing Center is a beautiful culture. The kids that work here are empowered. The directors are graduates and are very caring. Great strategic vision. We are very lucky to have found this place.
The whole experience was wonderful. The crew that helped were exceptional! We will absolutely sail again.
Great sailing center, boats are clean and well maintained and a trip around the harbor gives great views of all of Boston
Great experience with kayaking with friends. The staff were very patient with me. I don't know how to swim and was scared but was able to learn to kayak on my own. Shout out to Nick who helped me become more confident with the water and kayaking. Beautiful view of the city.
Excellent experience: friendly and knowledgeable staff, beautiful and convenient location. A perfect fun way to spend the day out on the water with friends on Boston Harbor.
Excellent experience: friendly and knowledgeable staff, beautiful and convenient location. A perfect fun way to spend the day out on the water with friends on Boston Harbor.
How thrilling to have a nice sail and see interesting landmarks around the harbor giving great views of all of Boston
Passionate, experienced instructors and knowledgeable staff. Beautiful and convenient location. A perfect day out to discover early Boston from the harbor.
Great sailing center, boats are clean and well maintained and a trip around the harbor gives great views of all of Boston
As a quadriplegic, I am obviously limited in the sports that I can now participate in. Being an athlete prior to being injured in 87', I have always looked for activities that would make me feel like I was being physically active again. Thanks for introducing me to this great sport! I also can't say enough about the whole staff at Piers Park.
My son, is a young man with complex special needs. Your instructor is doing a tremendous job with him. He intuitively understood how to deal with his physical limitations and his unique way of communicating. He treats him with respect and kindness. Most importantly he treats him like just another kid. We, as parents, could not ask for more.
We had lots of fun. It was a good experience to paddle and ride a boat in the middle of the city. I didn't think this was possible around here. It was also good to see opportunities like jobs we can do around the city that seem fun like being a sail instructor."
My daughter Olivia had an amazing experience at Piers Park Sailing Center's summer camp! From day one, the instructors and staff were incredibly kind, welcoming, and supportive. They make every child felt included and confident on the water.
This summer was truly special for my kids (11 and 6) at Piers Park. They loved every moment and learned so much in such a short amount of time. I've never seen them so enthusiastic about an activity before. I'm so grateful that opportunities like this exist for kids in East Boston.
I am forever grateful of the great opportunity Piers Park Sailing has provided my children for the past several years as Harbor Explorers. Their commitment to teach children all aspects of sailing is remarkable. The staff goes above and beyond their call of duty. All staff members are genuinely friendly and caring. Thank you for providing my children with another wonderful year of learning.
FAQs
Everything you need to know about getting started with us.
Piers Park Sailing Center welcomes children, teens, adults, families, and community groups of all backgrounds and ability levels.
No experience is needed. Many of our programs are designed for beginners, and our instructors support participants every step of the way.
Yes. We work hard to keep programs free or affordable, especially for local youth, and offer scholarships to reduce financial barriers.
We’re based at Piers Park in East Boston, with direct access to Boston Harbor.
No experience is necessary. Our instructors teach from the beginning and work at your pace. We welcome sailors of all levels.
Still have questions?
If you have any questions, big or small, contact our team and
someone will get back to you as soon as possible
Your support helps keep our programs going
Donate today to help more people set sail and discover everything the harbor has to offer.



