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Conference Sailing Overview

The Hoofer Sailing Club is definitely something that you will want to catch. Imagine relaxing on the bow of a sailing boat while a qualified Hoofer instructor guides you across the clear, blue, waters of beautiful Lake Mendota. With a little time and motivation, that is exactly what you will be doing this summer while in Madison.

The Hoofer Sailing Club offers a variety of sailing packages to accommodate all of our guests. So whether you are a complete novice or have sailed on the America’s Cup racing team, we have something to offer. The only requirement needed to participation is that you are a UW-Madison conference attendee or a member of the Wisconsin Union. Go ahead and turn your conference into a vacation!

Package 1: Day Sail

Individuals with prior sailing experience attending UW Madison conferences may be eligible to use Techs (1-2 people per boat), Badger Sloops (2-6 people per boat),or windsurfers (1 person). This package allows you the freedom to see the lake by yourself at your own pace. A short assessment of sailing ability is required.

$30 for one or two people on the same craft per hour, add $5 per hour for each additional person on the same craft.

Package 2: Learn to Sail/Windsurf

These lessons are taught in a three-hour format. You will learn what you need to know to successfully sail a small boat or windsurfer under guidance. We provide a qualified instructor to teach sailing theory and provide on-the-water instruction.

2-5 people, 3 hour blocks, $40 per person. Call ahead!

Package 3: Guided Sail

This package requires no prior knowledge of sailing, and is perfect for those who want to sit back and enjoy the scenery. These typically are done on Badger Sloops (2-5 people), or small keelboats (2-6 people). A qualified Hoofer instructor will guide you while you and your party relax and enjoy the ride. Call ahead, because this is a popular package.

1-2 people, 2-2½ hour sail, $100
3-7 people, 2-2½ hour sail: $30 per person, 8 or more: $25 each

Package 4: Customized Sailing Regatta

Participants learn the basics of sailing from Hoofer Instructors and then compete in a mini regatta on boats captained by Instructors but crewed by conference attendees! Race results recorded. Call ahead!

2-3 hours, $35 per person, 4-20 participants

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