Frequently Asked Questions
ON SAILING & THE MARTIN 16:
Do I get to stay in my wheelchair?
No. The boats have comfortable and secure seating, and you can use any pad or cushion you would like to bring on board with you.
How will I get on the boat?
Sailors board boats based on their particular style. Some folks simply hop aboard, some require the assistance of strong hand, some transfer from wheelchairs under their own power. And for those who need additional help we have two lifts mounted on the dock to safely move sailors in and out of the boats.
Can these boats flip or sink?
No. The Martin 16 is designed with 1100 lbs. of foam flotation and is unsinkable — even with the hull totally flooded. And the Martin 16’s heavy, deep-ballasted bulb keel provides exceptional stability.
Do I have to know how to swim/Will I get wet?
Y-Knot sailboats will NOT tip over. You won’t have to swim, but if the day is windy you may get wet from spray—that’s part of the fun.
Is sailing an “extreme” sport?
Like many other sports, sailing can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from leisurely cruising to competitive racing… and under a variety of conditions. Y-Knot sailors have been on the water when many of the bigger boats on the lake chose to stay at the dock, but safety always comes first.
What if it rains?
We won’t sail in thunderstorms. Otherwise, bring your rain gear and a change of clothes.
What if there is no wind?
It doesn’t take much breeze to make a Martin16 go, but if the wind dies completely you can always enjoy the beautiful Lake George scenery… or take a swim in the lake.
How long is a sailing day?
Check the calendar for specific times, but in general our sailing days last through the afternoon. Your time on the water may vary, depending on conditions, how many other sailors attend, and your own physical needs. Plan on spending about two hours on the water.
ON YMCA CAMP CHINGACHGOOK:
How do I get to the Camp?
Camp Chingachgook is about 45 minutes from Saratoga Springs, an hour and 15 minutes from Albany or Schenectady. Directions and maps
Is the Camp accessible?
The Camp is relatively accessible. Camp Chingachgook is a YMCA outdoor recreational camp, so there are no paved walkways, and some of the terrain is steep. The Camp does have an accessible bathroom big enough to change clothes in, and good access to the dock area. Plenty of volunteers are on hand to assist you if you need help getting around.
ON PARTICIPANTS AND VOLUNTEERS:
Do I have to be a Y-Knot member to go sailing?
No, you can sail with Y-Knot without being a member, but we hope you’ll end up joining us. There are many benefits to membership, not of the least of which is free access to clinics and sunset sails!
Is Y-Knot just for people with disabilities?
No! Y-Knot is an accessible sailing program that works to include people with disabilities in the sport of sailing. We make providing opportunities for people with disabilities a priority, but many of our members are not disabled and participate as sailors, or volunteer captains and sailing companions.
Can I just come to watch?
Yes, but we hope to convince you that you’ll have more fun on the water.
Can I bring friends or family members?
Sure, sailing is even more fun when you share it with others. Just be sure that you let us know if you are bringing someone with you so we can plan.
Do I need special training to volunteer?
No. Providing comprehensive orientation and training for our staff and volunteers is a key component of our focus on safety. Each season, we host a Volunteer Training Day, and we provide “hands-on” training to volunteers throughout the season.
ON PREPARATIONS:
What should I wear?
Your “sailing bag” should contain a change of clothes, extra footwear, and rain gear. Sunscreen is a necessity, and a cap and sunglasses will help cut the glare on the water. Weather conditions on Lake George can change quickly, so dress comfortably for the weather forecast, but bring extra clothes “just in case.”