Nautical day camp run by an ASA-accredited Buffalo sailing school, teaching kids ages 8-17 to rig, hoist, trim, steer, tack and jibe while sailing in front of Buffalo's Inner Harbor on Lake Erie within sight of the Canadian waterfront. Each five-day session runs Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; ten weekly sessions run from late June through early September and cost $350 per camper, or $300 for siblings. Weeks open with a whole-group briefing on boat parts and handling, then split into smaller skill-level groups, and days close with a group reflection on what went well and what didn't. The camp takes a leisure rather than competitive approach, plans large-group activities around the most novice sailors, and includes pizza parties, club racing and a graduation ceremony.
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 Sail Buffalo directly before you register or pay. Last checked August 2026.
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Google Reviews
Powered by GoogleI have been sailing for years. I want to do independent sailing down the road. So i took the ASA class. My captain was Dan Britt who is an incredible instructor. The best and very knowledgeable! I think Anyone should take the class even you said before. I will take more advanced class shortly.
Sail Buffalo’s Jr. Sailing Camp is the best part of summer!! I do not know how to sail, but my kids do - because Sail Buffalo taught them how ❤️⛵️
Sail Buffalo has become a cornerstone of summer for our family, particularly for my three boys, who absolutely love attending the summer camps. Over the past few years, Sail Buffalo has consistently delivered a fantastic experience, one that my kids look forward to all year long. This summer was no different—in fact, they loved it so much they ended up participating for two separate weeks: one at the very beginning of the summer and another at the end. Each week was packed with adventure, fun, and learning, creating lasting memories and giving them an incredible sense of confidence on the water. What makes Sail Buffalo so special, beyond the scenic beauty of Lake Erie, is the exceptional staff. Al and Flora, in particular, have left a lasting impression on my boys. Al’s patience and steady guidance instill a quiet confidence in the kids, while Flora’s infectious enthusiasm and energy make every day exciting. Both of them have an incredible way of connecting with children, making sure every single kid feels important and capable, regardless of their experience level. Whether they’re learning the technical skills of sailing or just enjoying time on the water, Al and Flora create an environment that is both instructive and nurturing. It’s clear how much they care about fostering not just sailing skills but also personal growth in each child. One of the things I’ve come to appreciate most is how much Sail Buffalo goes beyond simply teaching kids how to sail. The program emphasizes teamwork, responsibility, and environmental awareness, giving my boys an appreciation for the water that extends far beyond their time at camp. They’ve come away with a sense of camaraderie with the other campers, and it’s been amazing to see how much they’ve grown—not just as sailors, but as young people. The format of the week-long camps is perfect. It gives the kids enough time to really dig into learning the basics, but it’s also full of fun activities that keep them engaged throughout the day. Every time I pick them up, they have a new story to tell—whether it’s mastering a tricky maneuver on the boat, navigating different weather conditions, or just bonding with their fellow sailors. The connection my boys have developed with the water and with each other through these camps is something truly special. They’ve grown closer as siblings, often coming home with inside jokes and shared experiences that are unique to their time on the water. Al and Flora have been a big part of why my kids love Sail Buffalo so much. Their ability to make every camper feel like a valued part of the team is remarkable. The boys talk about them all year long, and I can’t thank them enough for the positive impact they’ve had. Not only do my kids feel more confident on the water, but they’ve also learned valuable life lessons—like problem-solving, resilience, and the importance of working together to achieve a common goal. The camp itself is incredibly well-organized, and the waterfront location on Buffalo’s Outer Harbor couldn’t be more perfect. It offers a beautiful setting, and the calm waters of Lake Erie provide the ideal backdrop for beginners and experienced sailors alike. Sail Buffalo’s fleet is well-maintained, and the camp’s focus on safety and environmental responsibility is woven into every activity. As a parent, knowing that my children are in such capable hands makes the experience even better. I can drop them off and feel confident that not only are they learning and growing, but they’re also having a blast. For any parent looking for an enriching, fun, and deeply rewarding summer experience for their kids, I couldn’t recommend Sail Buffalo more highly. It’s been a fantastic journey for our family, and we’re already looking forward to next summer!
I recently had the pleasure of Sailing Buffalo for a few hour sailing tour, and it was an unforgettable experience. The boat was well-maintained and equipped with everything needed for a comfortable, safe and enjoyable trip. Our instructor was beyond knowledgeable and very friendly, providing excellent guidance. The views were stunning, this experience made our trip even more special.
This is a perfect place to learn sailing. Capt. Pierre is great and will provide all the tools necessary to become an experienced sailor. You can rent sail boats to go out on lake Erie.



