August 11–August 17, 2024
Ages 13–16
12 participants maximum, 2 trip leaders
Standard suggested tuition: $1,290
This 7-day sailing experience takes place on the stunning waters of Lake Champlain where we’ll row alongside some of the most beautiful mountain ranges on the East coast, sharing views of the Adirondacks and Green Mountains. This experience will be divided between a 3-day base camp model and a 4-day whaleboat expedition. We’ll start the week off utilizing our Split Rock dinghy sailboats, base camping at one site while developing our sailing skills. The second half of Sail Champlain will include our whaleboat expedition where our group will work together to navigate two of the Museum’s whaleboats to each destination, stopping to camp at a new location each night. During this experience, participants will build confidence in the wilderness while learning new skills in sailing, outdoor cooking, navigation, leadership, rowing techniques, sanitary practices, shelter set up, and Leave No Trace principles. Join us on this expedition through Lake Champlain and bring home valuable experiences that will prepare you for your next adventure.
This immersive experience will allow participants to gain a unique skillset with a variety of sailboats (built right here, at the Museum!). Teamwork and a positive attitude are essential on these expeditions as we learn to communicate and work together to successfully power these boats. Learning to be a contributing member while on trail presents its own challenges that will require patience. This expedition emphasizes responsibility, engagement, and leadership as we confront daily demands and develop group dynamics. This weeklong sailing adventure is perfect for you if you’re motivated to learn traditional sailing and rowing skills, looking to collaborate with a team, excited to explore areas of Lake Champlain, and develop a newfound confidence in the wilderness.
Browse through photos of past Sail Champlain trips below.
The Outdoor Expedition Experience
Sail Champlain is a full-time outdoor experience that takes place rain or shine. In the event of high winds or lightning our group will stay on shore; otherwise, each day we will work as a team as we travel on water, strengthening our leadership abilities by making informed and thoughtful decisions. We practice low-impact camping and there is little to no running water or bathroom access along the way. We live outside for the entirety of the expedition, sleeping in tents, preparing meals, and exploring what Lake Champlain has to offer. Each member is expected to contribute, working with your crew and rallying each other along the way.
We ask that all participants come prepared for this unique experience, our expeditions can be physically and mentally challenging but the rewards of overcoming those challenges together are worth it. Expeditions on Lake Champlain are truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at expeditions@lcmm.org.
