Programs & Priorities: Adaptive Watersports
Leaving dependence on the dock.
The Adaptive Watersports Program (AWP) removes traditional barriers to outdoor education faced by people with diverse needs. AWP supports individuals with cognitive or physical disabilities enabling students to realize their goals using adaptive teaching methods and specialized equipment including a 23-foot keelboat and Martin 16, which promotes participation at all levels, from assisted recreational sailing to independent racing competition. AWP provides an invaluable point of access to Lake Champlain and facilitates positive change in participants’ self-confidence, leadership, and teamwork.
In partnership with Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports, this program has served thousands of people with disabilities since its inception in 1997.
Group Recreational Sailing
Students are encouraged to take the helm, trim the sails and learn about sailing on our custom adaptive Sonar. This boat is adapted so the skipper sits facing forward without the need to switch sides as the boat changes direction. Encircling this seat is a horizontal steering hoop, a concept designed by Community Sailing Center founding director and architect, Marcel Beaudin. The Sonar sails with up to six people and has a heavy keel under the bottom, which makes for excellent stability. 3-hour sails are offered multiple times per week.
Private and Competitive Sailing Lessons
The goal of these lessons is to enable the students with disabilities to sail independently. The Martin 16s, single-handed keelboats (ballasted for stability) were designed to level the playing field for people with physical disabilities to race in open fleets without a time or distance handicap.
Dates: June-September, times vary
Sailboat, Kayak and Canoe Rentals
AWP offers sailboat rentals in our Adaptive Sonar and Martin 16s, for sailors ready for independent sailing. Kayak and Canoe instructional lessons are also available.
Contact and Applications
To apply for a program, please contact Vermont Adaptive at (802) 353-3178 or burlington@vermontadaptive.org.
Derek Schueler Fund
Our Adaptive Watersports Programs are generously supported by the Derek Schueler Fund. Derek was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, scholar and friend who inspired happiness, hope and love through his extraordinary eyes and genuine smile. One of Derek’s gifts was that he could embrace others’ passions as his own unconditionally and without judgment. Derek loved spending his time on Lake Champlain with family and friends and we all hope, along with any who have had the pleasure of meeting Derek, that his legacy inspires others to seek the breath-taking beauty of Lake Champlain through the Derek Schueler Fund.