Business Details
26 Years
experience
Connecting People to the Water Through Education and Recreation
Waterfront Center has dedicated itself to connecting people to the water through education and recreation since its founding in 2000. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Oyster Bay, New York, we provide marine education programs, recreational sailing opportunities, and hands-on environmental experiences for over 15,000 individuals annually. Our commitment to accessibility ensures programs remain affordable or free for all community members regardless of financial background. Through our National Historic Landmark oyster sloop CHRISTEEN and replica dredge IDA MAY, we combine maritime history with modern educational practices. Our team of experienced professionals brings decades of expertise in marine biology, competitive sailing, and community engagement to deliver impactful programming.We maintain partnerships with local organizations like the Town of Oyster Bay and US Sailing to expand our reach and effectiveness. With 25 years of operation, we continue evolving to meet the changing needs of our community while preserving our founding mission. Our transparent operations and donor-focused approach have earned us trust as a reliable steward of local water resources. Through strategic planning and community collaboration, we ensure long-term sustainability for future generations.
Services
Youth Sailing Programs
Paddle Rentals
Harbor Tours
Marine Education
Sailing Certifications
Community Sailing
Field Trips
Virtual Programs
Private Lessons
Match Racing
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- 25 years of experience connecting communities to water resources
- US Sailing accredited programs for all skill levels
- Historic vessels used for immersive educational experiences
- Community partnerships with local environmental organizations
- Certified instructors with competitive sailing and marine science expertise
Associations and certifications
- U.S. Sailing Accredited School
- Community Sailing Center
What people say
Exceptional instructors
Beautiful historic boats
Engaging educational programs
Family-friendly environment
Well-structured youth activities
Services
Youth Sailing Programs
Our youth sailing programs cater to ages 8-18 with progressive skill development from beginner to competitive levels. Participants learn sailing fundamentals, safety protocols, and racing techniques through structured lessons and hands-on practice. The programs emphasize teamwork, environmental awareness, and maritime heritage while accommodating all experience levels.
Paddle Rentals
Kayak, stand-up paddleboard, and sailboat rentals provide public access to Oyster Bay's protected waters. Available for 1.5-2 hour sessions with safety equipment included, rentals operate seasonally with guided options for novice paddlers. Our fleet accommodates solo and group outings with expert staff assistance available.
Marine Education
STEM-aligned marine education programs combine classroom learning with field experiences in local ecosystems. Students engage with live marine specimens, conduct water quality testing, and explore historic vessels while meeting state science standards. Programs adapt to various age groups and educational settings including virtual options.
Harbor Tours
Guided tours aboard the National Historic Landmark CHRISTEEN offer insights into Oyster Bay's maritime history and ecology. Visitors experience traditional sailing methods while learning about local ecosystems and conservation efforts through expert-led interpretation for all ages.
Sailing Certifications
US Sailing certified courses teach keelboat operation, safety procedures, and navigation skills for adults. The 16-hour program includes practical training, written exams, and logbook certification for independent sailing. Participants gain qualifications for boat rentals and advanced sailing opportunities through experienced instructor guidance.
People
Elisa M. Santoro
President of the Board of Directors
Attorney specializing in estate planning and real estate with University of Rhode Island and California Western School of Law credentials. Active sailor and board leader since 2021, advocating for waterfront access and environmental protection.
George J. Ellis
Executive Director
Economics graduate from University of Connecticut with 22 years local residency. Oversees operations with sailing expertise developed through competitive racing and investment banking career background.
Cormac Murphy
Sailing Director
Certified sailing instructor with international racing experience since age 8. Holds multiple coaching certifications and world match racing rankings. Develops youth and adult sailing programs with competitive racing expertise and safety training.
Cameron Jenness
Education Director
Marine biologist from University of Maine with six years as outdoor educator. Manages environmental programs, marine animal care, and scientific studies while maintaining CPR and sailing certifications for educational fieldwork leadership.
Jonathan Zaskorski
Director of Waterfront Operations
Skilled maritime professional with classic boat restoration experience and competitive racing achievements. Oversees waterfront safety and operations while promoting sailing accessibility through facility management and program development.
Questions
What age groups participate in your youth programs?
Our sailing and educational programs serve children aged 8-18 with appropriate skill-level divisions and instructor supervision.
Do you offer financial assistance for programs?
We maintain affordable pricing and offer scholarship opportunities to ensure accessibility for all community members regardless of financial situation.
Can adults participate in sailing lessons?
Yes, we provide adult sailing certifications, community sailing classes, and private lessons for all experience levels.
Are your historic vessel tours accessible?
Our CHRISTEEN and IDA MAY vessels offer accessible educational experiences with staff assistance available for special needs accommodations.
How do I schedule a field trip?
Contact our Education Director through the website to customize field trip dates, topics, and duration based on your group's needs.
Do you accept equipment donations?
We consider boat and equipment donations that align with our programming needs. Contact the Executive Director for evaluation and documentation.
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