The Northwestern University Sailing Center runs half-day summer camps on Lake Michigan in Evanston, open to the general public as well as university faculty and staff. Little Cats sailing for ages 5-8 and Big Cats sailing for ages 9-15 both meet Monday through Friday 9am-12pm, while Wildcat Windsurfing for ages 9-15 meets Monday through Friday 12:30-3pm on the harbor. Little Cats and windsurfing run in one-week sessions and Big Cats in two-week sessions, from mid-June through early August. Instruction is dinghy- and board-based and emphasizes water safety and comfort on the boat, with beginners starting on easy-ride boards and progressing as skills develop.
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 Northwestern Sailing Center directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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★★★★★Tony ParakkaLove this place! Love the staff! Am in a sailing class.. the staff are so patient and helpful to all class participants! Love it that they promote cooperation among the participants!
★★★★★Clayton HarleyI cant more highly recommend the NW sailing center. the knowledgeable staff here will let you know the current conditions before you go if you call. they have a number of types of boats rigged and ready to go. a nice day out on the water couldn’t be easier, and at these prices, why wouldn’t you get out there? they offer lessons if you need them and the staff genuinely want you to learn. so much fun and so kind, ten stars. thanks again to the crew. we’ll be back
★★★★★George & Katrina de los ReyesHelpful staff and fantastic sailing instructors for the group class where we learned how to sail 420s, lasers and hobies. Private windsurfing lessons were fun, too. Have always enjoyed this facility and rentals.
★★★★★Robert WittmannRented two sailboats here yesterday and everything was perfect. Good wind, the service was great and the boats and PFDs were in really good shape. Fun place to go and good vibes going on. Will definitely return.
★★★★★Yin XiaLearn sailing lesson with Lolo. Very nice and organized lesson. If classes are cancelled more than twice, they will have additional class. So great to learn sailing Sep. with beautiful weather.