Applications are still being accepted for about 40 available slots in the first annual Young Sailors Program.
The program is free and funded through a grant from Councilmember Alan Gerson. Seventh and eighth graders and mature sixth graders are eligible.
It is a series of 10 classes, held on Mondays from 3:35 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. beginning April 16. Opening ceremonies for the program will be held on April 12.
Students will be taught a variety of basic sailing skills, including how to hoist a sail, the parts of the ship, navigation, marine biology, history of New York Harbor and sailing safety.
Classes will take place at the South Street Seaport Museum and at the North Cove Marina, as well as onboard a Coast Guard vessel and two museum schooners, the Pioneer and the Lettie G. Howard. The final class will also include a cruise around New York Harbor on the American Princess.
Students who graduate from the program will receive certificates and trophies during a ceremony June 21.
Application information is available at M.S. 131, P.S. 140, the Manhattan Youth program at I.S. 89 and Marte Valle, or by calling Gerson’s office at 212-788-7722.
