Sailing on Pirouette is a dynamic and "active" experience. Even in light wind, you will feel the boat respond to the water. You should expect:

• You will be seated in the cockpit, which is the open area at the back of the boat where the Skipper steers.

• The "Heel": When the wind catches the sails, the boat will lean (heel) to one side. This is normal, but it means the deck will not be level.

• Repositioning: To balance the boat, the Skipper may ask you to move your weight to the high side or switch sides as we change direction (tack).

• The Boom: The boom is the horizontal pole at the bottom of the main sail. It moves across the boat during maneuvers, so you’ll need to be ready to duck your head when the Skipper gives the word.

• Moving Parts: There are lines (ropes) and sails moving throughout the session. Pirouette is a classic racing design and doesn't have many hand-holds, so you’ll need to be comfortable bracing yourself as the boat moves.

Community sails are open to ages 16 and up.

We aim to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone aboard, however participants should be comfortable with:

• Boarding: Stepping down into a boat that may move or "tip" slightly as you get on and off from the floating dock.

• Movement: Ducking your head under the boom (the horizontal pole) and moving across the cockpit as the boat changes direction.

• Balance: There are limited hand-holds on a vintage sailboat, so you’ll need enough stability to brace yourself as the boat leans or moves through small waves.

Yes! Our Community Sails are a 100% free program. There is no cost to participate and no tips are accepted. We believe everyone should have the chance to experience Gig Harbor’s maritime history firsthand.

If you would like to support the BoatShop's mission, we welcome general donations! Your contributions help us maintain our fleet of historic vessels and keep community activities like this available for years to come.

We will do our best to stick to our scheduled sails (light) rain or shine, but we may need to postpone or cancel if weather or wind may cause unsafe conditions for sailing.

The harbor can be significantly cooler than the shore, especially once the sails are up.

• Wear: Layers are essential. Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing and non-marking, closed-toe shoes (like sneakers). Please, no flip-flops, sandals, or heels, as they are a safety hazard on a moving deck.

• Bring: A water bottle and sunglasses.

• Storage: We have a cabin area where you can tuck away a small bag or jacket to keep them dry and out of the way. Please leave large, bulky backpacks in your car.

If you have a PFD and sailing gloves please bring it along, but we also have plenty available to borrow.

You can bring along a sealable water bottle, but sailing is generally active and not a good time to eat or drink.

If it’s a floating picnic you’re after, consider renting one of our Livery Vessels!

There are no restrooms aboard the boat during the sail, but there are restrooms right by the dock.