It’s time to hit the water and set sail. For many on the SouthCoast, the unofficial start of summer also means boating season, and if you have a child who's interested in learning the ropes (both literally and figuratively), read on.

The Old Rochester Varsity and JV sailing teams are hosting an open house where interested students can learn more.

What the Old Rochester Sailing Open House Offers

The hope is to "develop a love of sailing in young sailors and challenge them to always improve," head coach Charlie Van Voorhis said.

READ MORE: Old Rochester Coach Earns Statewide Honor

He has been the head coach of the ORR Sailing team for six years.

"The high school season typically runs from early March through late May, but there are additional opportunities to sail in the summer and fall as well," Van Voorhis said.

WFHN-FM/FUN 107 logo
Get our free mobile app

The team consists of 10 high school students and nine middle schoolers. The open house is the perfect way to get a feel of what it's like to be on the team.

"Weather permitting, we’d like to introduce everyone to our current team and hope to get everyone out on the water in one of our twelve 420 sailboats," Van Voorhis added.

,

Mattapoisett Community Sailing Association via Facebook
Mattapoisett Community Sailing Association via Facebook
loading...

When and Where the Sailing Event Takes Place

When: Thursday, May 28, 2026

  • 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
  • Rain date Wednesday, June, 3, 2026

Where: Mattapoisett Town Beach house

What Students Should Bring to Go Sailing

  • Dress in layers with clothing that can get wet
  • Beach shoes or old sneakers (they will get wet)
  • Life jacket *life jackets will be provided if participants do not have one*

Who Can Attend the Sailing Open House

The event is open to all fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth graders in the ORR school system. A cookout will follow the sail.

Old Rochester Anything But a Backpack Day

When students were tasked with losing their backpacks, here is what they came up with.

Gallery Credit: Michael Rock

The 7 Most Important Unwritten Boating Rules

It’s key to remember that everyone at the lake is there to have a good time. So be a good person, and if you see someone struggling, offer to help or be patient and let them figure it out.

Gallery Credit: Credit N8

New Bedford Houseboat Gets Upgrades For Airbnb Listing

This New Bedford houseboat went on the market in 2021. The new owners gave it a fresh look and are now letting us book a stay on Airbnb.

Gallery Credit: Jackson Scott

More From WFHN-FM/FUN 107