FAQs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Mail address:
PO Box 585
St Joseph, MI 49085

Location:
Lighthouse Lane
St. Joseph, MI
(East of SJRYC)


 
Q.
Do I have to be a member of the Saint Joseph River Yacht Club to take classes at the SJJF?
A.
 
No. Everyone above the age of eight is welcome to sign up.
 
Q.
Does the Sailing School or Yacht Club rent boats?
A.
 
No. The sail boats are not for rent to the public or members.
 
Q.
Where is the Sailing School?
A.
 
SJJF is located next to the St. Joseph River Yacht Club and the West Basin Marina. See the "Contact Us" web page for a map.
 
Q.
Which class should my child enroll in?
A.
 
If this is your child's first time in a sail boat, or he/she has a small amount of experience, sign up for the BEGINNER class. After successful completion of the BEGINNER class move to ADVANCED. See more details on the "Classes" web page for more details about racing!
 
Q.
How soon should I register?
A.
 
As soon as possible. Class size is limited by the number of boats.
 
Q.
Can I enroll / pay online?
A.
 
You cannot enroll online. But, the registration form is available online (Registration Form page). Print and complete the form. Mail with payment to the SJJF, PO Box 585, St. Joseph, MI 49085.
 
Q.
Is there a waiting list?
A.
 
Generally we don't have a waiting list because there are few drop outs. Sign up early to get the class you desire.
 
Q.
Can my child attend just part of a session?
A.
 
It is strongly recommended to participate in the entire session so no important information is missed. A new topic is taught in every class and each lesson is very important to understanding the fundamentals of sailing.
 
Q.
If I have to drop the class, what happens?
A.
 
A 100% refund will be given if the drop out is before the first class.
 
Q.
Does my child need to know how to swim?
A.
 
Yes, children need to know how to swim! There will be a swim test the first day of class for children. Our boats are designed to tip over, and often do! It is important to be comfortable in the water.
 
Q.
What forms do I need to complete prior to class?
A.
 
The registration form must be completed and the liablity form must be read and signed by a parent.
 
Q.
What gear does my child need?
A.
 
Be prepared to get wet! Most days are warm and shorts and t-shirts are fine, but check the weather. Fleece is good for colder days. Water shoes or sandals (not flip-flops) are recommended. Sunscreen and a bottle of water are good ideas.
 
Q.
What should my child bring the first day?
A.
 
Be prepared to go swimming the first day for the swim test.
 
Q.
Does my child need to bring his/her own lunch?
A.
 
No. Class is in the morning or afternoon, so lunch should be eaten before or after class.
 
Q.
When is the Awards Banquet?
A.
 
The last Friday of Session III.
 
Q.
How does my child advance to the next program level?
A.
 
A written test and performance test are given to evaluate the progress of each student. The results of the tests will determine advancement to the next level.
 
Q.
Can I miss classes?
A.
 
Yes. The concepts will be reviewed throughout the class, but valuable boat time may be lost.
 
Q.
Can I make up a class session?
A.
 
There are no make-up sessions. But, for more sailing practice, attend the optional Friday race day.
 
Q.
What do we do when the weather is bad?
A.
 
We always try to make it out on the water. Normally the only reason we won't go out, is if it is stormy or too windy. The first time this happens, we generally take a tour of the Coast Guard. The second time for inclement weather, the class may be canceled. Call in advance for the class plan.