Clearwater’s Sailing Classroom program offers an engaging, hands-on educational experience for students in grades 4 and up aboard a tall sailing ship on the Hudson River. This immersive program encourages teamwork and inquiry-based learning through a variety of activities. Students will have the opportunity to raise the mainsail, conduct water quality tests, study Hudson River life, and explore indigenous history. They’ll work together to haul in fishing lines, sing traditional sea shanties, and investigate the river’s rich ecosystem.

Aligned with New York State learning standards, Clearwater’s award-winning environmental education programs serve as an enriching complement to classroom lessons, inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

Sailing from various locations along the Hudson River, including Rensselaer, Kingston, Poughkeepsie, and more, our program runs in two time slots: 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. If these times do not work for your group, please inquire about alternative scheduling options.

• A 2.5-hour hands-on sailing experience on the Hudson River
• Access to inquiry-based learning stations
• Activities such as raising the mainsail, conducting water quality tests, and exploring indigenous history
• Fishing lines for hands-on exploration of Hudson River life
• Singing traditional sea shanties to foster teamwork and camaraderie
• Life vests for all participants (available upon request)
• Educational materials aligned with New York State learning standards
• Discounted program rates based on school type (Title I, Public, Private, Post-Secondary)
• Dedicated crew to facilitate learning and ensure safety

What's Not Included:

• Transportation costs to and from the sailing location
• Meals or snacks for participants
• Personal items such as sunscreen or reusable water bottles
• Additional activities or equipment not specified in the program

1. Arrival and Check-In
   Arrive at the designated dock location 15 minutes prior to your scheduled sailing time for check-in.

2. Safety Briefing
   Participate in a safety briefing conducted by the crew, including life vest fitting (available upon request).

3. Boarding the Sloop
   Board the sloop Clearwater and settle in for an exciting day on the Hudson River.

4. Raise the Mainsail
   Engage with the crew to raise the mainsail, learning the basics of sailing and teamwork.

5. Inquiry-Based Learning Stations
   Rotate through various hands-on learning stations, including:

• Water quality testing
• Studying Hudson River life
• Exploring indigenous history

1. Fishing Activity
   Participate in hauling in fishing lines to discover local species and their ecological significance.

2. Sing Sea Shanties
   Enjoy traditional sea shanties while fostering camaraderie among classmates.

3. Navigational Experience
   Help navigate the ship under the guidance of the crew, gaining insight into sailing techniques.

4. Return to Dock
   Conclude your sailing adventure and return to the dock for disembarkation.

5. Wrap-Up Discussion
   Engage in a brief wrap-up discussion about what was learned during the experience.

The Sailing Classroom experience aboard Clearwater offers students a unique opportunity to engage with the Hudson River in a way that traditional classrooms cannot replicate. As they sail, students are immersed in the beauty of the river while participating in hands-on learning activities that foster a deeper understanding of their environment. This interactive approach encourages curiosity and inspires students to become stewards of the natural world.

One of the standout features of this program is its alignment with New York State learning standards. By integrating science, history, and teamwork into an exciting nautical adventure, students gain valuable skills that complement their classroom learning. The program is designed to spark interest in environmental science and inspire future generations to appreciate and protect their local ecosystems.

The collaborative nature of the sailing experience fosters teamwork among participants, allowing students to work together on various tasks, from raising the mainsail to conducting water quality tests. This shared experience not only strengthens bonds among classmates but also cultivates essential life skills, such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving.

Additionally, the opportunity to explore indigenous history enriches students’ understanding of the region’s cultural heritage, connecting them to the rich tapestry of the Hudson River’s past. This multifaceted approach to learning ensures that students leave the program with a wealth of knowledge and unforgettable memories.

Overall, Clearwater's Sailing Classroom program is not just about sailing; it's an educational journey that combines adventure with real-world exploration, making it a truly special experience for students.

• Arrival Time: Please arrive at the designated dock location at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled sailing time to allow for a smooth check-in process.
• Check-In Process: Upon arrival, check in with a crew member who will confirm your reservation and provide any necessary instructions.
• Safety Briefing: All participants will be required to attend a safety briefing before boarding the sloop, which includes information about life vests and safety protocols.
• Dock Locations: Be sure to verify the specific dock location from which the Clearwater will depart in your booking confirmation.
• Group Coordination: Ensure your group is together for check-in and ready to board at the designated time.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable educational adventure!

• Reusable Water Bottles: Stay hydrated during your adventure on the river.
• Sunscreen: Protect yourself from UV rays while enjoying the outdoors.
• Comfortable Clothing: Dress in layers for changing weather conditions and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on a boat.
• Hat and Sunglasses: Bring a hat and sunglasses for added sun protection.
• Personal Snacks: While meals are not provided, feel free to bring light snacks if desired.
• Notebook and Pencil: Consider bringing materials for note-taking or reflections on your experience.

Make sure to pack these essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience!