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

• To be seated in the cockpit - which is the open area at the back (stern) of the boat where the Skipper steers.

• To "heel" - when the wind fills the sails, the boat will lean (heel) to one side. This is normal.

• To reposition - to balance the boat, the Skipper may ask you to move to the high side or switch sides as we change direction (jibe/tack).

• To be aware of the boom - the boom is the horizontal pole at the bottom of the main sail. It moves across the boat during maneuvers (jibing & tacking), so you’ll need to be ready to duck your head when the Skipper gives the word.

• To learn about lines, sheets, & halyards - There are lines (primarily jib/main sheets & halyards) and sails moving throughout the session.

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: Pirouette is a sailboat. Sailing requires a measure of balance by those aboard and are not static or stable platforms while underway.

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 cause unsafe conditions for sailing.

The harbor can be significantly cooler than the shore.

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

• Bring: A water bottle and sunglasses.

• Storage: We have a cabin area where you can tuck away a small bag or jacket. Please leave large items in your car.

If you have a PFD and sailing gloves please feel free to bring them along. We also have plenty available to borrow.

Please bring along a sealable water bottle, however our community sails are meant for learning and are active so it is not a good time to eat or drink.

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

There are no restrooms aboard the boat, but there are restrooms in the Boatyard House at the base of the Eddon Boatyard driveway.

Please meet at the dock at the Gig Harbor BoatShop.