Confidence, Fun and the School of Life on the Water
What little Johnny doesn’t learn, big John will never learn – or simply find much harder.
This old wisdom has guided us at in2theblue for a long time and inspired us to develop a special programme for our youngest sailing enthusiasts: Skipper Training for Children and Teenagers.
Why We Created Skipper Training for Kids
Even at an early age, between 6 and 14 years old, children show remarkable learning ability, want to take on responsibility step by step, and are incredibly proud of their small achievements. Sailing is a sport that challenges children in many ways – not just physically, but above all mentally. It’s a true school of life that promotes skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, weather awareness and strategic thinking. So why wait until adulthood to begin this valuable experience? Why don’t we give our children more trust, let them have a go, and give them the chance to grow on the water?
These questions moved us deeply and led us to develop our first skipper training for children – initially on a small scale, just among close friends, to test the potential of our approach.
Our First Practical Trial – Complete Success and Delighted Young Hearts
It finally took place during the Easter holidays: Birgit and Eduard Traxler brought their two children Valeria and Laurenz, along with their friend Simon, to the training. Julian himself acted as trainer. After a playful and engaging safety briefing, off they went. The rope-work training was a complete success – the children learned quickly and thoroughly. They swapped the heavy mooring lines for thinner, lighter Dyneema lines – and after a short time, the movements had become second nature. Proudly, the children presented their first tasks, their jobs on the boat – and were completely serious about it.
And what was even more significant: They learned faster and better than the adult trainees alongside them, and this influenced the whole pontoon: children as a talking point and inspiration for young and old alike
The First Day on the Boat – An Unforgettable Experience
The highlight was: The first time at the helm! The children took the wheel and steadied the boat with great seriousness, with pride that literally sparkled in their eyes. Valeria, originally just meant to watch, eventually insisted on being photographed whilst she steered the course herself. The rest of the crew were simply proud – of the children, of what they’d learned and of what was still to come. Edi, proud dad, was certain: Here we’ve found the perfect crew for the 2-week summer cruise on the Dehler.
Learning, Laughing, Living – and Sometimes a Little Break
The second day followed seamlessly: With lots of fun, teamwork and great curiosity, the children learned all the manoeuvres, steered the Dehler into the berth and back out again – so well that the adults could hardly believe there were children at the helm.
Of course, breaks were part of the programme: scooter rides, playing in the park, a self-choreographed wind and rain dance, and exciting UNO evenings below deck. The sense of community, fun and confidence in their own abilities were always at the heart of it.
The Grand Finale – Sailing with the Young Captains
The crowning finale was the last day, when the children steered the boat themselves in thirty-knot winds. Dad Edi was thrilled, Mum Birgit rather sceptical, but in the end it was clear: Here our kids have gained real water confidence, self-assurance and joy for life.
Our skipper training for children is more than just sailing lessons – it’s a real-life experience that promotes personal development, creates fun and makes memories that last a lifetime.
Discover Our Offers for Kids Now
If you want to give your child the perfect introduction to sailing, confidence and the joy of being on the water, then our children’s skipper training is just right!
Find the next dates for skipper training for kids with us in Punat now – we look forward to seeing you!
Your contact
If you have any questions about our offers, please get in touch with us! We prefer to assist you in person.
