Homeschoolers on the Hudson
Discover, Explore, and Learn: A Unique Sailing Classroom Experience for Homeschoolers
Overview
Activity details
New for homeschoolers! Step aboard the iconic sloop Clearwater for a unique educational adventure designed especially for homeschool groups! Our Homeschool Sailing Classroom offers a hands-on, immersive learning experience that complements at-home education with real-world exploration. Students will engage in inquiry-based learning stations, customized to diverse grade levels, where they can investigate the vibrant ecosystems of the Hudson River.
Participants will conduct water quality experiments, explore indigenous history, and deepen their understanding of environmental science, all while building critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Your group will have the chance to raise the sails, cast lines for Hudson River fish species, and sing traditional sea shanties, fostering a sense of teamwork and community.
Designed to support homeschool curricula, this program encourages active participation, creativity, and outdoor learning, making it the perfect blend of education and adventure! Whether your students are budding scientists, historians, or just curious explorers, they will leave with unforgettable experiences and new knowledge.
We look forward to welcoming your homeschool group on this one-of-a-kind journey!
What's included
- Price: $35 per person (same for parents and kids).
- 1 parent/guardian required per group (maximum of 2).
- Up to 2 tickets available for children under 8 years old.
- No maximum number of kids per group.
- Families of 3 or more receive a 20% discount on the total ticket price.
- Hands-on, immersive learning experience focused on the Hudson River.
- Inquiry-based learning stations tailored to diverse grade levels.
- Opportunities to conduct water quality experiments, explore indigenous history, and deepen understanding of environmental science.
- Activities include raising sails, casting fishing lines, and singing sea shanties.
- Life vests provided for all participants upon request.
- Engaging program designed to support homeschool curricula.
For inquiries about family discounts, please email Sail@clearwater.org.
What's not included
- Transportation to the sloop; please arrange your own travel to the dock location.
- Food and beverages; participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks or lunch if desired.
- Personal items such as sunscreen, hats, or weather-appropriate clothing.
- Optional souvenirs or merchandise available for purchase on-site.
- Special accommodations or equipment not mentioned in the program details.
Feel free to reach out at Sail@clearwater.org if you have any questions about what to bring!
Itinerary
Arrival at the Dock
Arrive at the specified dock location at least 15 minutes before your scheduled start time. Check in with the Clearwater staff.Safety Briefing
Receive a safety briefing and learn about important safety protocols. Families can have their children fitted for life vests, which is optional.Setting Sail
Board the sloop Clearwater and get ready to set sail! Engage in a brief introduction to the boat and its history.Exploration Stations
Participate in inquiry-based learning stations, including:
- Conducting water quality experiments.
- Exploring indigenous history.
- Investigating local ecosystems.
Team Activities
Join in hands-on activities such as raising the sails, casting fishing lines, and singing traditional sea shanties to foster teamwork and camaraderie.Wrap-Up Discussion
Conclude the program with a group discussion reflecting on what participants learned and experienced during the day.Return to Dock
Sail back to the dock and disembark. Take time to enjoy any final moments on the water and ask questions.Departure
Gather your belongings and depart at your leisure, or explore nearby areas as desired.
Highlights
The Homeschool Sailing Classroom offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in hands-on, immersive learning directly on the water. This program not only enriches traditional at-home education but also fosters a sense of adventure and curiosity about the natural world. Each activity is designed to be interactive, encouraging students to explore, ask questions, and develop a deeper connection to their surroundings.
Participants will discover the vibrant ecosystems of the Hudson River through inquiry-based learning stations tailored to their grade levels. From conducting water quality tests to exploring indigenous history, each station provides meaningful insights into environmental science and local heritage, making learning both relevant and exciting.
One of the standout features of this experience is the opportunity for teamwork and collaboration. Students will work together to raise the sails, cast lines for fishing, and sing traditional sea shanties. These shared activities not only promote camaraderie but also help build essential social skills as participants learn to communicate and cooperate with one another.
Additionally, the program is designed to align with homeschool curricula, providing a seamless blend of education and adventure. Whether your child is a budding scientist, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about the world around them, they will leave with unforgettable memories and newfound knowledge.
Finally, sailing aboard the historic sloop Clearwater is an experience unlike any other. The rich history of the vessel, combined with the breathtaking views of the Hudson River, creates a magical backdrop for learning. Families will cherish the moments spent together on the water, making this an unforgettable educational journey.
Additional information
Check-in details
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, we kindly ask all participants to arrive at the specified dock location at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. This allows ample time for check-in and a safety briefing before we set sail.
Upon arrival, please check in with a Clearwater staff member, who will confirm your reservation and provide any necessary information regarding the day’s activities. If your family has opted for life vests, staff will assist with fitting them at this time.
Please be mindful of any weather conditions on the day of your visit and dress appropriately for the sailing adventure. We recommend bringing along any personal items you may need, such as sunscreen, hats, or water bottles.
We look forward to welcoming you aboard for an unforgettable learning experience on the Hudson River!
What to bring
- Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your adventure on the water.
- Sunscreen: Protect your skin from sun exposure while sailing.
- Hat: A wide-brimmed hat can provide extra shade and comfort.
- Comfortable Clothing: Dress in weather-appropriate attire and consider layers, as temperatures can change on the water.
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Ensure safety and comfort while onboard; sandals or flip-flops are not recommended.
- Personal Snacks: If desired, bring along light snacks for you and your group.
- Camera: Capture the unforgettable moments and stunning views along the Hudson River.
- Notebook or Journal: For students who want to jot down observations or reflections during the experience.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about what to bring!
Special requirements
- Parental/Guardian Supervision: Each group must include at least 1 parent or guardian, with a maximum of 2 adults allowed per group.
- Children Under 8: Participants aged 8 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. A maximum of 2 tickets is available for children under this age.
- Life Vests: Life vests are optional and may not be necessary for all participants, as they can sometimes hinder movement. However, they are available for fitting upon request if desired.
- Health Considerations: Please inform Clearwater staff of any special health needs or considerations for participants prior to the sailing experience.
We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone aboard!
Cancellations
Important Rescheduling & Cancellation Information
Cancellations:
Cancellations within 24 hours of the sail will forfeit the total booking fee. Missed departures cannot be rescheduled, and all ticket purchases are final and non-refundable, unless Clearwater cancels the sail. Ticketing and processing fees are non-refundable.
If Clearwater Cancels:
We will attempt to reschedule. If that’s not possible, you can receive a gift certificate for the ticket cost (minus fees) with no expiration date. Refunds will be issued through the original payment method upon request.
Shortened Sails:
No refunds will be issued for shortened sails due to passenger misbehavior. For weather-related cancellations, if at least one hour of the sail occurs, no refunds or rescheduling will be offered. If less than one hour occurs, you may rebook or receive a 50% refund (minus fees).
Refunds for Weather Cancellations:
If Clearwater cancels a sail due to weather, you will receive a full refund (excluding the Fareharbor processing fee) via the original payment method.