Rules and Procedures
Sail Haven and the Canal Dock Boathouse have developed specific expectations to help ensure a safe, rewarding, and fun learning environment. It is important that you review these expectations. Appropriate behavior is expected at all times.
Expectations
Sail Haven has developed rules and procedures to help ensure a safe, rewarding, and fun learning environment. It is important that you review these rules. Appropriate behavior is expected at all times. Failure to observe the rules and procedures will result in sanctions that vary according to the nature of the infraction, but can include loss of sailing and/or paddling privileges and/ or expulsion.
Verbal or physical abuse, or behavior that jeopardizes your safety or that of anyone else in the program, will result in a written warning. A second incident will constitute a brief suspension from the program. An additional incident will result in an extended suspension or dismissal from the remainder of the season without refund of tuition or membership fee.
Be Safe, Be Responsible
Sailing and paddling involve potential hazards inherent to all water sports. Anyone going out in a boat must understand the associated risks and assume full responsibility for their actions on the water. Sail Haven staff has the right to limit any part of the program, or close it completely at any time, if the safety of members may be threatened. Sail Haven and the Canal Dock Boathouse also have the right to revoke any sailing, paddling, or membership privileges for violation of these rules.
If you feel you have been treated unfairly, or that a staff member has shown poor judgment, you may discuss it later with him/her, the Director, or Board. At the time, however, you must comply with his/her request.
Plan Your Trip, Know Your Limits
Sail Haven's location at the Canal Dock Boathouse serves as an ideal geographical hub for expanding water-based activities that connect you to the environment. Sail Haven is located at the Canal Dock Boathouse, the North end of New Haven Harbor. Buffered by geographical land features of the upper Harbor, Sail Haven enjoys unique protection from wind and wave action for small boats and is perfectly situated as a centrally located starting/end point for paddling trips.
Sail Haven offers safe, fun, and viable paddling distances South to the Sand Spit and North to the Quinnipiac River. Beginner paddlers and volunteers will appreciate the convenience and safety of realistic paddling distances on weary arms, while seasoned paddlers can choose multiple trip options from a safe, convenient facility with launching docks, chase boats and trained staff. Paddle maps are available at the boathouse.
Electronics
Do not bring unprotected (non-waterproof) cell phones, electronic devices, cameras or valuables sailing or paddling. Sail Haven and Canal Dock Boathouse is not responsible for lost, immersed, or stolen gear.
Sail Haven Equipment
All equipment must be inspected prior to each sail or paddle. Familiarize yourself with wind and weather conditions and how your boat should be rigged to accommodate them. Please keep in mind the ever-present hazard of the swinging boom or paddle. Watch your head! Accidents or collisions resulting in damage/ injury must be reported immediately. You must also inspect your boat after sailing or paddling and report broken/ worn equipment. Do not drag sails or gear on the dock, floor, or grass. Boats must be bailed and free of litter.
Weather
Storms may approach very quickly on New Haven Harbor. Keep a close eye on weather conditions. If it feels as though a storm may be approaching, or the wind suddenly gets stronger, return at once. Always check weather conditions prior to leaving dock.
Wear Your Lifejacket
Everyone is required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) which is Coast Guard approved, the proper size for weight and build, and form-fitting and comfortable, as it will be worn at all times. Closed-toe shoes (no flip-flops or slides) will also be worn at all times in boats and on the docks/site.
Sailing and Paddling Areas
Separate areas have been designated for sailing and paddling at Sail Haven. These activity-specific zones must be obeyed as marked on the Sail Haven master chart. Members must be familiar with the local waters as there are many obstructions to contend with. Feel free to ask a staff member if you are not sure of open sailing or paddling areas. Boating time may be restricted upon demand – maximum limit upon restriction is two hours.
Open, Recreational Sailing and Paddling Use
Instructional programs have priority for boat use. Members may use boats not used in classes during open boating hours per staff approval. Use of a jib on any boat requires two (2) sailors for weight distribution and control. We encourage you to sail with other family members or friends to build a community of networked sailors. Sailing guests (number appropriate for boat type) may join you for FREE. Members and (1) guest are permitted to use up to two (2) kayaks per visit.
On-the-Water Evaluation
A check-out test is required of all members to participate in recreational sailing and paddling. Members taking courses will learn the skills required for this evaluation. You will only be allowed to use the boat you have been pre-qualified in. Scheduled classes and private instruction are available to teach the proper skills required to handle each class of boat at Sail Haven.
Guests
Qualified adult members may take out family/friend guests (age 5+) as often as they like at no charge provided boats are available. There must be a qualified adult member in each sailboat, or within immediate reach of each kayak. Each member and guest must sign the sign-out sheet. Guests must also sign a liability waiver. Members are responsible for their guests and for their safety. It is the obligation of members to know emergency procedures and to ensure that his/her guests are familiar with them prior to sailing or paddling.
Watch the American Flag
Beginners are required to stay within sight of the American flag at all times. In an emergency or should weather conditions deteriorate, the flag may be lowered to half-mast. You must return to the dock immediately if the flag is lowered to half-mast! Sail Haven staff may revoke membership privileges or limit participation for violation of this very important rule.
Green/ Red Flag
A green flag indicates no restrictions are present and members may sail or paddle according to the level & boat they have previously qualified in.
A red flag indicates that there are restrictions currently present due to weather or equipment limitations. Each member must check the posted restrictions prior to sailing or paddling. Less experienced members may not be permitted to sail or paddle on some red flag days. Common restrictions include cancellation due to high wind or waves, or limits to the open boating areas due to weather or boat traffic.
Avoid the Main Shipping Channel
Large Ships (tankers, ships, tugs with barges...) must stay in the channel to keep from running aground. They also are unable to slow down or quickly. Please Do Not sail or paddle in the main channel. Be conscious of where the channel is in relation to your craft.
Right-of-Way, 50 Yard Big Boat Buffer Zone
Large motorboats (tankers, ferries, ships, etc.) limited in maneuverability always have the right of way. Give all ships a 50-yard min. buffer zone. Avoid collisions! Sailboats on port yield to starboard, windward yields to leeward, overtaking yields to overtaken. Avoid boats having trouble. Yield to fast rowing shells that are hard to see, and may not see you.
Additional Rules and Procedures
No swimming or landing at other docks or shore.
Stay clear of Sail Haven dock when boats are landing.
Do not litter the property, dock, boats, or harbor.
Alcohol, controlled substances, and smoking are prohibited.
No bikes, rollerblades, or pets are allowed on the docks or in the building.
Concerns and Issues
The class Instructor or Dock Master should be your first stop for resolving most issues. He/ she is the day-to-day facilitator, and usually has the answer and ability to make decisions and correct problems. Serious concerns should be brought to the attention of the Program Coordinator. The best time to talk to the Instructor is at the end of class. If this is not convenient, please call and leave a message asking that someone follow-up with you or email sailhaven@canaldock.org.