Steve Machesney Photos
Attendees of the program’s 2023 “Welcome to Sail Haven Days” were greeted with a bustling waterfront.
This Citizen Contribution was submitted by Steve Machesney, chair of Sail Haven’s Steering Committee.
As the sailing season kicks off in New Haven, a new adult community sailing program is making waves and attracting attention from sailing enthusiasts across Greater New Haven. Sail Haven, a program of Canal Dock Boathouse, is gearing up for its first full season after a successful pilot in 2023, with a goal of doubling its membership and bringing the joy of sailing to more people than ever before.
From May through October, Sail Haven will offer an impressive 119 days of open sailing, giving members ample opportunity to hit the water and hone their skills. The program’s fleet of 20 small sailboats, ranging from 13-foot Sunfishes to 19-foot Flying Scots, ensures that there’s a boat for every level of experience and sailing style.
“We wanted to create a place where anyone could come and experience the thrill of sailing, regardless of their background or ability,” said Joel Zackin of New Haven, who founded Sail Haven with fellow sailors Bob Pattison, Stocky Clark and Steve Machesney. “Sailing has brought us so much joy over the years, and we wanted to share that with our community.”
To help make sailing accessible to all, Sail Haven offers 11 sailing courses, totaling 132 hours of instruction. From beginner classes to more advanced racing clinics, there’s something for everyone. The program’s team of professional instructors and volunteer mentors are passionate about sharing their knowledge, helping others discover the sport and gain confidence on the water.
Angus Lamont of Hamden sailing in New Haven Harbor.
One of those volunteers is Max Collins, who has been with Sail Haven since its pilot season. “I started sailing when I turned 55, and it has been a big part of my life ever since,” he said. “When I recently moved to New Haven I wanted to make friends that liked being on the water too. Sail Haven has been great for that.”
Collins is just one of the many dedicated volunteers who make Sail Haven possible. From maintaining the boats to teaching classes and leading social events, the program relies on the support of its community to keep things running smoothly.
That community spirit is what drew new member MaryAlice Dacounto of Milford to Sail Haven. “I’ve always been interested in sailing, but I never knew where to start,” she said. “When I heard about Sail Haven and how welcoming and supportive the community was, I decided to give it a try. It has been an amazing experience so far.”
Dacounto is one of 75 members who have joined Sail Haven since its launch. The program’s goal is to double that number in the coming year, and with the support of Canal Dock Boathouse and the wider New Haven community, they’re well on their way.
Bob Pattison of Hamden getting a Flying Scot cleaned up for another exciting sailing season.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received,” said Steve Machesney. “From our volunteers to our members to our partners at Canal Dock Boathouse, everyone has played a role in making Sail Haven a success. We can’t wait to see what the future holds.”
As the sailing season gets underway, Sail Haven is poised to make a big impact on the New Haven community. With its commitment to accessibility, education, and inclusivity, the program is helping to break down barriers and bring the joy of sailing to more people than ever before.
“Sailing has the power to change lives,” said Bob Pattison. “It teaches teamwork, perseverance, and respect for the environment. We’re excited to share those lessons with our community and help create a new generation of sailors.”
With 119 days of open sailing ahead of them, the team at Sail Haven is ready to make some waves and share the magic of sailing with all who are willing to give it a try. Visit the program at www.sailnewhaven.org to learn more.
Rob Bjornson of New Haven showing a fellow member the ropes on a 420.
I’m so glad sailing instruction and the ability to take out a boat into the harbor is being made available to everyone.
But we have an awful lot of people in our city who never learned to swim. Can we get the city to create a summer swimming lessons program for every student in the city? Every student in the city should be required to learn to swim by the time they graduate school. And offer lifeguard/first aid training and CPR lessons for every high school student who has shown proficiency in swimming? Then more children and teens can become good swimmers and be able to participate in boating lessons, swimming, and knowing how to be safe around the water.