Sail Kingston Cove was awarded a $1,000 Grow Boating Grant from NMTA. We recently caught up with Cecile Schwedes, President of the Board, to learn how the program is helping introduce more young people to the water.
What does Sail Kingston Cove do?
Sail Kingston Cove (SKC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit sailing education program for youth ages 5–17, based in Kingston Cove at the Port of Kingston. Over the past decade, SKC has introduced more than 1,200 children to sailing. The program began with donated Opti sailboats and volunteer instructors and has grown to include FJ sailboats for older students, a dedicated dock, storage support from the Port, and a structured summer camp program staffed by former SKC sailors who now teach the next generation.
How were the NMTA grant dollars used?
NMTA’s $1,000 grant went directly toward essential repairs and replacement gear during a year when SKC faced tight budget constraints. The funds covered repair parts, maintenance supplies, updated community signage, and the purchase of three high-quality used Opti sail sets sourced from a youth sailing program in Southern California.
Did the NMTA funds allow you to do something you wouldn’t otherwise have been able to do?
Yes. The grant ensured SKC could repair and maintain its aging Opti and FJ fleets, keeping them safe and reliable for students. Without this support, the program would have struggled to keep enough boats in service for summer camps.
How did the funds help you advance NMTA’s Grow Boating mission?
SKC helps bring new boaters onto the water every season, partners with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club and Kiwanis to broaden access, and offers scholarships to families with limited resources. Events like the community Sail-A-Thon encourage families to get on the water together and build lasting connections to boating. The NMTA grant helped ensure the equipment was ready for these experiences.
Is there anything you’d like NMTA members to know about SKC?
SKC is powered by volunteers. Board members and community supporters repair boats, maintain equipment and docks, assist with marketing, and organize fundraising events. Their dedication keeps the program accessible and affordable.
If members want to help, how can they?
SKC is currently raising funds to replace its original 10-year-old Opti and FJ fleets. Donations, equipment, and expertise in boat repair are always welcome.
Anything else to add?
To learn more or support the program, visit sailkingstoncove.org. SKC extends its sincere thanks to NMTA for the generous Grow Boating support.