Programs

Blind and Vision Impaired Sailing and Paddling

Have challenges with your vision kept you from getting on the water?  PBCB kindly offers this program to anyone with vision impairment who has a desire to learn to sail.  We sail in Flying Scots which are 19 feet overall.  They have a comfortable cockpit area that can accommodate 4 to 6 people. Lessons are conducted by sighted guide sailing instructors.  These sighted guides will be with you throughout all aspects of the program.  Safety and having fun are always our top priority.  Stop by and experience first hand the great comradery this program offers.

When: Thursday evenings in July and August / 5pm-dusk

For more information and to sign up, contact William Donnelly at  donnellyw3133@gmail.com.

Comments from a Blind & Vision Impaired participant:

“I am writing to acknowledge the wonderful opportunity that PBCB has given me through the Blind and Vision-Impaired Sailing program.  I had always wanted to learn to sail, but when I lost my sight in mid-life I never thought I would be able to learn………I remember the first time I stepped aboard a sailboat in the summer of 2016 at PBCB.  I was a bit nervous walking along the age-old dock with my sighted guide, but once I stepped onto the Flying Scot it was like I had come home!  The instructors were wonderful.  I quickly learned the parts of the boat and some general sailing terms.  Once out on the water things got a little more challenging as I learned to judge the direction of the wind, how to steer with the tiller and how to maneuver the sail.  I gained confidence and sailed again during the summer of 2017, continuing to learn and refine my skills.

I would not have had the opportunity to learn to sail were it not for the generosity of PBCB.  This free program has meant the world to me.  It has broadened my horizons and introduced me to new challenges.  It has been a real adventure!”

With appreciation,

Carla Burke