Sail Buffalo

Sail Buffalo offers Junior Sail Camp for ages 8-17. The camp teaches rigging, hoisting, trimming, steering, tacking, jibing, and more, and it runs for 5 days.

Programs

• Junior Sail Camp — 8-17 · 5 days · $350 · Buffalo’s summer sailing program for kids and teens; teaches rigging, hoisting, trimming, steering, tacking, jibing and more.
• ASA Sailing Classes — 18+ · weekends, weekdays and weekday evenings · ASA certification courses from Basic Keelboat 101 through 106.
• Other ASA Classes and Private Instruction — 18+ · 3 days, 4 days · $495–$2,300 · Private and personalized instruction available; combo classes and private lessons offered.

At a glance

• Ages: 8–18 years old
• Price range: $350–$2,300
• General schedule: ASA certification courses run on weekends, weekdays and weekday evenings from May 15 to September 15.

About the provider

Sail Buffalo has been based out of Lake Erie’s shorelines for over 10 years. Captain Pierre Wallinder is the Head Instructor and Director of Programs & Operation, and he has been an ASA instructor since 2004. Sail Buffalo is Buffalo’s only nationally ASA-accredited sailing education program and an official ASA affiliate. Its mission is to make sailing affordable, accessible, and fun for everyone, and to train people to be safe, confident sailors while providing on-water access, continuing education, social networking, boating, wellness, and environmental programming.

The Sail Buffalo project includes a safe-haven for young veterans and their families; activities are for people regardless of income, gender and age, including people with disabilities. Other ASA Classes and Private Instruction require prior sailing experience for the ASA 101, 103, & 104 combo; two consecutive overnight stays on the boat is required.

What families say

“Sail Buffalo has no peer in the area with respect to facilities (location & boats), summer camp for kids, kayak/canoe storage, and education/classes.” — Ethan C, Google

“ASA 101 with Capt. Pierre was fantastic! The class is clearly structured to cover everything you need to know to get out on the water safely, and Sail Buffalo has nice facilities and a friendly atmosphere. Capt. Pierre's instruction made me feel both safe and confident. I'd highly recommend this program for those who want to learn to sail.” — Shannon D, Google

“Have Made Great Memories! This is the second year my three kids (ages 14, 12 and 8) have attended. We did one week last year, and two weeks this year. They love each week more than the previous one and have made great memories and learned so much!” — Inge B, Google

Last updated September 7, 2026.