Few things in life compare with sailing for its therapeutic benefit of uplifting and rejuvenating the spirit.  In 1986, SHAKE-A-LEG pioneered the Adaptive Sailing Program to bring the benefits of sailing to people with physical and developmental disabilities.

The concept has since gained widespread popularity and the SHAKE-A-LEG Adaptive Sailing Program is world renown.  As a recognized leader in the field, the SHAKE-A-LEG model is used throughout the United States, Canada and Europe for providing competitive, instructional and recreational sailing for people with multi-disabilities. 

The Adaptive Sailing Program operates on a daily basis, by appointment, throughout the summer.  The program enables individuals and groups to enjoy the “America’s Cup waters” of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay.

FACILITY & INSTRUCTORS

Our facility is located at Fort Adams State Park in Newport, Rhode Island.  All docks and facilities are 100% accessible, and include both Hoyer and Spectrum lifts for sailors transferring from wheelchairs.

Our instructors are certified by US Sailing, and have years of experience including teaching and coaching sailors with disabilities.

Our docks and facilities are also available for short-term lease by those with qualifying disabilities – contact our Sailing Director to make your reservation.

THE SHAKE-A-LEG FLEET

Our fleet includes five Freedom 20s, which were custom-designed and built so that the most severely disabled can safely sail the boat.  We also have a 23-foot Sonar (Paralympics Team Keelboat) and a 16-foot Martin for the intermediate-to-expert sailor.

The 2009 program year for the Adaptive Sailing program runs from June-August. Check the calendar for details.

Each Freedom accommodates up to five sailors plus one instructor.  Fees are $70 for two hours of lessons or recreational sailing – and can be scheduled by contacting our Sailing Director.  Advanced instruction and coaching is available upon request.

For further information contact:  Paul Callahan, CEO at paul@shakealeg.org

Click here for a PDF Brochure (2MB) about the program.