Getting Started
Do I need to re-register every year?
Yep! We wipe the database clean at the end of each season, so everyone (including returning sailors) needs to sign up fresh for the new year.
How is my personal information handled?
Your personal information is processed and/or stored by Nepean Sailing Club, Amazon Web Services and Mailjet. The related privacy poicies are described in the following resources.
How much does it cost?
Starting out? Zero dollars! Completely FREE! Once you're hooked (and you will be), consider becoming a Crewing Member to support the program and get priority spots.
Events & Registration
I registered but can't make it—what now?
No worries! Just update your availability on the website before 10:00 AM on event day. That way you won't get hit with a no-show.
I freed up and can now join an event—how?
Sweet! Update your availability on the website. The system will auto-add you to the event or the waitlist depending on space.
What happens if I ghost an event?
Not cool! You'll get marked as a no-show and bumped down in priority for future events. Do it too much and you might get kicked from the program. Please update if you can't make it!
When's the registration deadline?
10:00 AM on event day. After that, the calendar freezes and any changes count as a no-show.
How do I know if bad weather cancels an event?
The coordinator texts/calls boat owners in the morning. They decide if it's safe to sail, and you'll get an email right away. We only cancel for serious stuff—lightning, crazy winds, or nasty air quality.
Can I show up late or leave early?
Nope! You gotta commit to the whole thing—arrive by 12:45 PM and stay for the full 3-4 hour sail. It's only fair to your boat mates and the skipper.
Assignments & Matching
Why does my boat keep changing?
The system recalculates every time someone updates their availability. It's making sure crews are balanced across all boats. Your assignment might bounce around until the 10:00 AM deadline—totally normal!
Can I sail with my partner/friend?
Sorry, no! We're all about mixing it up and meeting new people. The whole point is building community, not just hanging with people you already know.
Can I request a specific boat?
Nope! The auto system keeps things fair by mixing everyone up. This way you get to experience different boats and learn from various skippers. Variety is the spice of sailing!
Why am I always on the waitlist?
Few reasons this might happen:
- Not an NSC member yet (members get priority)
- Previous no-shows tanking your priority
- Signing up less than a week before the event
- Event is just super popular
Pro tip: Become a member and register early!
How do I know if I get off the waitlist?
Check the events page—it updates in real-time when spots open up. Calendar freezes at 10:00 AM on event day. You can also show up as standby in case of last-minute cancellations!
I'm a boat owner, but I don't mind crewing if there's ever a shortage. What should I do?
Register as a boat owner and check the box to indicate that you can crew on another boat if necessary. Whenever you are available, your boat will be added to the flotilla, unless there aren't sufficient crew for the other boats. Then you will be assigned a crew position on one of those boats.
What to Expect
What should I bring?
Here's the essentials list:
- Closed-toe, non-slip shoes (MUST have!)
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- Water bottle
- Clothes for the weather (layers are smart)
- PFD if you have one (we'll hook you up if not)
- Good vibes!
Where do we meet?
Blue tent on the west lawn at 12:45 PM. BE ON TIME! If you're late, standby folks will snag your spot. Grab your ticket when you arrive—no ticket = no sail.
Do I need sailing experience?
Absolutely not! We welcome everyone from total newbies to old salts. The whole point is learning and sharing knowledge across all skill levels.
How long are the sails?
Each cruise is 3-4 hours, then we hang out on the club deck afterward. Saturdays are extra fun with raft-ups and potluck parties!
Still Curious?
Can't find what you're looking for? Hit up the program admin or check out the main NSC website for more info!