Chautauqua's Sailing Department, under the leadership of Gary Snyder, presents a comprehensive curriculum of one-week sailing courses. The courses have been carefully designed to advance the sailing skills of all -- youth to adult and novice to advanced sailors.

The John R. Turney Sailing Center provides a home base for the programs and services of Chautauqua's Sailing Department. The Center includes a classroom and administration building, docks and a storage facility.

Call the Sailing Department during the summer season (716) 357-6392 or stop by the John R. Turney Sailing Center with your questions regarding course content, class suitability, or private lessons.

More Sailing Experiences

In addition to our structured courses, the Sailing Department provides sailing experiences to Boys' & Girls' Club participants, offers guided sailing excursions for families and small groups, and provides staff for individualized private lessons. A variety of sailboats are also available for rent.

We are equipped to provide courses and lessons using a variety of sailboats including the Optimist Dinghy, Vanguard 420, Sunfish, Laser, Lightning, Flying Scot, and Precision 185. Our staff is drawn from experienced high school and collegiate sailors as well as from seasoned professionals, the majority of whom are experienced competitive racers and US Sailing Certified Instructors. Picturesque Chautauqua Institution and the splendid waters of Chautauqua Lake assure a memorable setting for your sailing experience with us.

Chautauqua Yacht Club

The CYC, an independent Chautauqua organization, offers racing opportunities for C-Scows, Flying Scots, and Lightnings every Saturday and Sunday from the first weekend of the Season through Labor Day, for all sailors interesting in racing. Please check their web site, chautauquayc.org to learn about their events.