Memberships
The annual membership runs from January 1 to December 31. A person who joins after August 15 will have their membership extend to the end of the following year.
If a non-member decides to join the SBCSA at the end of their lesson session, the difference between the member and non-member lesson fee will be applied to their membership fee.
Membership Fees
SBCSA offers a range of membership options at very reasonable annual rates.
- Student + Volunteer - $50 + 10 volunteer hours with SBCSA
- Student - $75
- Adult - $150.00
- Family - $250.00
Member Benefits
- Reduced rates for sailing lessons
- Access to private lessons (for a nominal fee)
- Use of training boats during Open Sailing
- Keelboat Open and Independent Sailing (more details below)
- Boatbuilding class (additional materials fee)
Will you join us?
VOLUNTEER
The success and growth of the SBCSA depends upon the support and commitment of those willing to volunteer their time and talents. Activities can include boat and facility maintenance, fundraising, publicity, and more!
If you are interested in volunteering with SBCSA, check one or more of the activities listed on the membership application. Our team will reach out to discuss upcoming opportunities.
Member Benefits
Open Sailing
Association members and students who have completed half of their class may sail the training boats free of charge during the posted operating hours for Open Sailing. The facilities are open one evening per week, additional times may be added if there is sufficient demand.
Participating in Open Sailing is a great way to practice the skills learned in a class or to simply enjoy a relaxing, evening sail on the river. With no additional cost for members and students, Open Sailing is a very affordable way to enjoy the water. Members are often looking for others to sail with them so even if you don’t have a crew, come on down and team up with another member.
Keelboat Open Sailing
Keelboat Open Sailing sessions are designed to help members transition from sailing training boats in the river to sailing a larger boat on the Saginaw Bay. These sessions will not teach you to sail but will help increase your confidence sailing on the Bay. When members are ready, they can schedule a qualification sail in order to take advantage of our Independent Sailing program.
Keelboat Open Sailing takes place on Thursday evenings from 6p – 9p, weather permitting. The sail begins at 6p sharp and departs from the boat’s designated slip at Bay City Yacht Club.
Keelboat Open Sailing Requirements
Must register in advance by calling 989-778-0139 or email info@sbcsa.org. – Participants must be members of SBCSA – Three participants maximum per keelboat – Youth Intermediate Sailing, Adult Introduction to Sailing, or equivalent experience preferred. – Members under the age of 18 must have permission of the instructor and written consent of their parent or guardian.
In case of bad weather/sailing conditions, we will cancel and notify participants as early as possible.
Independent Sailing
For Association members with previous sailing experience or who have gained enough experience during lessons and Open Sailing, the SBCSA offers opportunities to sail on the lower Saginaw River and Saginaw Bay.
The Association keeps two boats, Capri 22 & Brass Tack, at Bay Harbor Marina near the mouth of the Saginaw River. These boats can be used by qualified members at any time: availability and weather conditions permitting.
To become qualified, members must pass a practical sailing test. To schedule a qualification test or to reserve your sailing time, call 989-778-0139 or email info@sbcsa.org. Check our calendar for availability.
With no additional fee for sailing these boats, this program is an absolute bargain that provides an inexpensive option to enjoy a morning, afternoon, or evening sail.
FOR MEMBERS ONLY
BOAT BUILDING CLASS
Learn new skills including:
- Read basic boat plans
- Proper use of shop tools, both hand and power
- Basic lofting skills (creating curved lines)
- Fitting planks and structural membranes
- Creating fair surfaces (a surface without bumps or hollows)
- Proper application and use of West System® epoxy and fiberglass
- Paint and varnish techniques
Must be 18 years or older to participate.
WHEN? Classes begin Monday, January 13, 2025, and end middle to late April. Classes are held on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 6:00 – 9:00 pm.
WHERE? The Gougeon Boat Shop at 100 Patterson Ave, Bay City, MI 48706.