The SMYC Summer Sailing Camp concluded its exciting and educational six-week program, leaving young sailors with unforgettable memories and a wealth of new skills. The camp, which ran from July 2nd through August 9th, offered participants an engaging mix of sailing skills, water sports activities, environmental education, friendly competition, and lots of fun!
Each week of the camp had a different theme: Pirates, Under the Sea, Around the World, and Mystery. Campers teamed up to tackle challenges, play games, and solve puzzles. By winning games during the week, teams could earn points to buy hints to find the treasure or solve the mystery at the end of the week.
The weeks were filled with fun activities, including constructing sailboats out of recycled and found objects to compete in a miniature sailboat race, sailing races, and various onshore and offshore games. During the camp, the kids also had the opportunity to join different excursions. They went on a 12-meter boat trip, participated in an informative clinic by the Nature Foundation followed by a cleanup, and visited the Coast Guard for a presentation and tour. The combination of games, excursions, and sailing days to Marigot and Philipsburg ensured the kids were never bored!
With lunch provided by a variety of restaurants such as the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, Lagoonies, Captain’s Rib Shack, and Zeebest Bakeshop, our campers were able to enjoy substantial and healthy meals, keeping them energized throughout their activities.
“We are thrilled with the success of this year’s Summer Sailing Camp,” said Elja van der Horst, SMYC lead instructor. “Our goal was to create a camp that is both educational and enjoyable, and it’s clear from the smiles on the kids’ faces that we achieved that! I am happy the kids had fun!” she continued.
This season, the summer camp’s UV-protective shirts were generously sponsored by Bob Hilbert Sportswear. Available for purchase in the Boatique, these shirts kept our young sailors safe from the sun throughout the camp. SMYC extends heartfelt thanks to Bob Hilbert Sportswear for their support, and to Lagoonies, Captain’s Rib Shack, the SMYC Restaurant, and Zee Best for providing the kids with delicious and nourishing lunches.
A big thank you also goes to our dedicated assistant instructors, whose teaching, support, and enthusiasm made each week unforgettable for the kids!
As the camp wrapped up, the SMYC looks forward to the upcoming sailing season! We are currently preparing for the 2024-2025 season with youth sailing classes that start at the beginning of September, welcoming returning students and new ones for another wonderful sailing season.
For more information about our youth sailing programs, please visit our website: https://smyc.com/sailing-classes/youth-sailing-classes/