Minneapolis Sailing Center is a nonprofit offering one-week summer sailing day camps for ages 5–18 on Bde Maka Ska in Minneapolis. Junior Explorers introduces first-time sailors ages 5–6, with half- and full-day classes for older kids taught in Optimist, 420, Laser, and Ensign sailboats. Programs span beginner through racing-focused instruction.
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 Minneapolis Sailing Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★David M. KuehlAlex, our instructor, exceeded all expectations. His extensive experience and excellent communication skills made complex topics surprisingly easy to grasp—even for beginners. The course was perfectly paced over the four days, striking a great balance between depth and accessibility. Not only did I enjoy every class, but I also walked away with a valuable new life skill. I would highly recommend this program—not just the school, but especially Alex as an instructor.
★★★★★Jairo MolinaBest experience in the world. Very inexpensive to join the club. Very easy to learn. Great communion with nature, in the middle of the lake, surrounded by loons and other sailing boats. Please join. You will not regret it. Also, weather changes regularly. Very exciting
★★★★★Chelsie GawneMarkThis is the best sailing school! I went through the program, my children went through the program, and now they are teaching at the school. It’s such an inclusive environment and I love the way they build sailors into teachers and advocates for the sport and conservation. Larry, Ted, John, Collin—and I could go on—great leadership, coaching, and programming. Every summer is spent here. They instill so many values—sportsmanship, independence, problem solving, critical/strategic thinking, maintenance/caring for your vessel, teamwork, etc. Thank you for instilling a love of sailing and a life long spot in me and my family!
★★★★★Mike KleinGreat staff and best way to sail in the Twin Cities! I took the Adult Basic Keelboat class and 4 sessions later started taking friends and family sailing, all summer long. Great support from dock masters, shuttling to the boats and warning of storms as they approach. 23’ Ensigns are great for cruising Bde Maka Ska. Can’t wait to try the 420s next summer, maybe a little racing, too. A welcoming community! We’ll worth the membership - sail all you want for one annual fee. Thanks MSC, see you next summer ⛵️
★★★★★Mahesh Babu MGreat place to get trained and also for a good evening fun walk. Can rent the boats and kayaks on hourly basis and enjoy the lake and sunsets 🌅