Anchors aweigh, summer 2021 is almost here. With warmer weather, the Hoboken waterfront quickly becomes a popular place to staycation. The Shipyard Marina, located in Uptown Hoboken, offers many exciting and outdoor activities in the New York Harbor, where unparalleled city views and natural beauty abound. From cycle boat excursions to jet ski rentals to kayaking, locals could spend the entire sunny season on the high seas of the Hudson. If you’re looking to pick up a new hobby and have fun while learning the ropes of a lifelong sport, the Sailing Club and Sailing School might float your boat. Read on to discover more about the Hoboken Sailing Club and what to expect.
(Photo credit: @hbknsailingclub)
About the Club
The Hoboken Sailing Club is geared towards mariners who already have steady sealegs. Such sailors can join under an individual membership ($1,250 per season) or as part of a family package ($1,875 per season).
Those who already excel at docking or are well versed in the difference between the port and starboard sides will be interested to know that membership provides “unlimited use of boats” and includes the opportunity to partake in weekly regattas. The club is as much fun on land as by sea, often hosting awards ceremonies and other social events at the private Pier 12.
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The Sailing School
For those who are brand-new to the sport, Hoboken’s Sailing School is a great place to start. The school is accredited by U.S. Sailing, the national governing body for sailing in the United States. This means that the Basic Keelboat Course offered has to meet certain standards and that instructors must be properly certified through the organization.
The program is a two-day course that consists of a classroom component in addition to technical, on-the-water instruction. Participants will leave with reference materials (a textbook and captain’s log) and a yearlong membership to U.S. Sailing. According to the official website, the class size will remain small, as “boats will never exceed four students so each student receives individualized attention.”
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Ties to Hoboken History
Hoboken Sailing Club was started in 2016, and the Sailing School was launched a few years later. Despite this recent renaissance, the Mile Square actually has an illustrious history of boating. The Stevens family was significantly involved in the New York Yacht Club, which opened its initial clubhouse, established in 1845, right here in Hoboken.
John Cox Stevens was the First Commodore of the club, and under his tenure, the New York Yacht Club introduced the America’s Cup. This international yacht sailing race is the oldest international competition still in existence. So, when spending a Saturday sailing with family and friends, Hoboken residents are also embracing a piece of local history.
The Shipyard Marina is found at 1301 Sinatra Drive. Reservations and memberships for both the Hoboken Sailing Club and Sailing School can be secured online.