The Harry McDonough Sailing Center is a nonprofit on Castle Island in South Boston that teaches kids ages 8–15 to sail entirely for free, serving over 650 children from every Boston neighborhood each summer. Days combine sailing lessons in the morning with open sailing in the afternoon, plus swimming in a designated area, paddleboarding and kayaking. The program is flexible: children can be dropped off and picked up at any time between 9:00am and 4:00pm.
The practical details
We list only what the camp itself publishes, and programs change — dates, prices, ages and availability can all move after we check. Confirm the details on the camp’s own website and contact Harry McDonough Sailing Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★haboston-G
★★★★★CAITLIN OHARAThe staff is top notch. Particularly this year, they’ve been able to savor a roughly 30 year legendary program, and although due to COVID restrictions not as many children are able to partake, they’ve taken every safety precaution possible and streamlined the entire program to exceed safety guidelines. The staff, from instructors (usually former adolescent students themselves), are highly trained in all aquatics including lifeguard and CPR certified, but also exude a true passion for children. This exclusive program offers sailing, swimming, fishing, kayaking , paddle-boarding, and camaraderie (a place for children to feel like kids and enjoy all castle island has to offer). I also suggest any donation and to reach out to a Billy Higgins, or, the children’s director, Kate to discuss volunteer and donation opportunities to keep this well run program alive. Highly recommend and impeccable run !
★★★★★Shawn Porter
★★★★★sean jennings