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Find answers to our frequently asked questions.
FREQUENT QUESTIONS
How do I sign up?
What do I bring?
What boats do you sail?
Where are you?
Who can I talk to?
Kevin Jewett, Director
Email: sail@glss.org
Phone: 262 275-8489
» Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I sign up?
Q: When do I start?
Q: Where do I go?
Q: Where can I park?
Q: What do I bring?
Q: What is the Swim Check?
Q: What if it rains?
Q: What is sun protection?
Q: Are we safe?
Q: Can we eat lunch at the Yacht Club?
Don't see it? Ask us your Question
Q: How do I sign up?
A: We give you a couple of options for your convenience. First, you must view our program information and choose your desired session and time. Make note of the session code. Next, you can choose to either visit our Online Registration storefront for fast, safe and secure registration with a credit card, or you can choose our Print & Mail Process that allows you to print our forms and mail or fax them to us with check or credit card. Registration is complete only after payment is received.
Q: When do I start?
A: Your course starting date and time appear on a confirmation card that will be sent to you after enrollment. Prior to class, all parents must check in their child at a designated check-in desk in front of or inside the Lake Geneva Yacht Club.
Q: Where do I go?
A: The Geneva Lake Sailing School is located on the West side of the Lake Geneva Yacht Club property at W4780 South Lakeshore Drive in Fontana. Our entrance has two driveways and can be found East of Abbey Springs Yacht Club and West of Academy Road. See our Map Page for details.
Q: Where can I park?
A: Parking is free for all sailing school families, however we ask that you please respect Lake Geneva Yacht Club members by remaining clear of any dryland space directly in front of a sailboat. Those arriving by motorboat are asked to please use the LGYC’s west pier (right-side facing shore) and please be aware of LGYC members docking or launching. Sailboats have right of way at all times!
Q: What do I bring?
A: These are the necessary items:
- Confirmation card (please fill in all possible contact numbers such as cell phones).
- Signed authorization waiver and medical release form.
- Swim suit and towel (esp. for the swim test, first day).
- Deck or tennis shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. (sandals are not acceptable)
- Extra clothes in bag or in peel-able layers (i.e. fleece sweatshirt under windbreaker).
- US Coast Guard Approved life preserver. (Type II, or Type III).
- IMPORTANT! Please label all belongings with waterproof marker.
Q: What is the Swim Check?
A: Comfort in the water is a fundamental part of safe sailing. All youths, regardless of age and experience must complete our Swim Check process on the first day of class. This process verifies each student’s comfort and ability in the lake. If you are concerned at all with your child’s swimming ability please tell us. Remember to bring dry clothes and a towel for afterward.
The Swim Check consists of:
1. Swimming the length of the main pier (50 yds.)
2. Putting on and taking off lifejacket while in the water.
Q: What if it rains?
A: We will always have class, regardless of weather. There is no need to call and ask if class will be held. Because the GLSS can't control the weather, we plan activities for Rainy Days, No Wind Days, Cold Days and Too Much Wind Days. Sailing is unique in that there is a lot of information that can be taught while on land. Please prepare your child with the appropriate clothing, because we may be outside even if we're not sailing. We will not be offering refunds due to bad weather or lack of wind.
Q: What is sun protection?
A: Please prepare your child for exposure to the sun. Apply sunscreen with a minimum SPF factor of 15 one hour before class. Remember, UV rays are present even on cloudy days. Other items such as a hat and sunglasses are also a must, and will greatly improve your child’s safety, fun and ability to learn. Also, bring water in a bottle. Dehydration happens all the time, and is so easily preventable. Drink lots of water!
Q: Are we safe?
A: Providing a Safe experience is the primary goal at the Geneva Lake Sailing School, and we go out of our way to make your child feel confident in their safety. Safety begins with communication. If you have any questions or concerns and would like to know more about our policies and procedures, please ask Program Director Kevin Jewett.
From the top down, our staff is fully certified by the US Sailing Association, and carries American Red Cross First Aid and CPR certifications. Our curriculum is organized to maintain exact Instructor/Student safety ratios while on the water. All of our equipment is maintained to high standards and is inspected routinely. In the event of any emergency, we have well-practiced procedures in place.
Q: Can we eat lunch at the Yacht Club?
A: Yes. As a special priviledge, the Yacht Club allows Sailing School families to use their lunch cafe while their child is enrolled in the Sailing School. Those wishing to become a Yacht Club member must request an application from the Club Manager. Call 262-275-2727 for details.