South Carolina Maritime Museum announces 2026 youth summer camps: Sailing, Racing, and Wooden Boat Building

The South Carolina Maritime Museum (SCMM) is proud to announce its comprehensive youth summer camp lineup for the 2026 season, offering a full spectrum of maritime skills—from introductory sailing in Optimist Prams and high-performance 420 dinghy training to hands-on wooden boat construction.

Master the Craft: Boat Building Camps 

A cornerstone of the museum’s mission to “keep maritime heritage alive,” the 2026 Boat Building Camps transition students from the water into the workshop. These sessions provide a rare opportunity for youth to learn the technical precision and artistry of wooden vessel construction.

• Intro Level (Ages 8–12): No experience required. Campers learn fundamental woodworking, tool safety, and the basics of construction by working on real projects from day one.
  • Dates: June 22 – 26 | 9 AM – 12 PM
  • Cost: $375
• Advanced Level (Ages 12–18): Designed for returning campers or those comfortable with tools. This session introduces advanced techniques, project planning, and fine craftsmanship.
  • Dates: July 20 – 24 | 9 AM – 12 PM
  • Cost: $425

Sailing Programs: From First Tacks to Teen Racing

The museum’s sailing curriculum is divided by age and skill level to ensure every student finds their stride on the water. 

Youth Sailing (Ages 8–12) – Optimist Prams

• Weekly Sessions: June 8 – July 24 (Campers can choose from morning sessions –  9 am to 12 pm or afternoon sessions that run 1 – 4 pm).
• Levels: Beginner, “Next Level,” and a specialized Learn to Regatta week (July 27–30) for advanced competitive tactics.

Teen Sailing (Ages 12–18) – 420 Dinghies

• All Levels: June 8 – 26. Perfect for new sailors or those moving up to double-handed boats.
• Next Level & Regatta Prep: July 6 – 24. Focuses on independent rigging and racing performance.

Skills & Requirements

Across all programs, the SCMM emphasizes “learning by doing.”

• Curriculum: Safety skills, capsize recovery, sail trim, and (for boat builders) the full construction process from framing to the Friday Boat Launch.
• Safety: All campers must be able to swim 40 yards unassisted.
• Required Gear: USCG-approved Type III life jacket, whistle, and closed-toe water shoes.

Registration

Registration for all sailing and boat building camps must be completed online at the SC Maritime Museum website. Sessions are limited to 12 campers each to ensure personalized instruction.

In addition, families with children ages 8-17 may apply to receive partial scholarships for SCMM’s 2026 summer sailing camps through its Youth Sailing Scholarship Program. Scholarships are awarded based on demonstrated financial need and alignment with SCMM’s mission of education, access, and maritime heritage.

About the South Carolina Maritime Museum

Located in historic Georgetown, the South Carolina Maritime Museum tells the story of South Carolina’s rich nautical past. Through its exhibits and youth development programs, the museum serves as a vital hub for preserving the skills of sailing and shipbuilding for future generations.