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Our programs

What would you like to learn more about? There's so much to explore!

Alumni donations allow us to continue the historic legacy of MIT sailing, connecting your history to the future
Do you want to host an event at the Pavilion? Formal to informal, we can accommodate parties of up to 125 people
All that you need to know to get started sailing
All about our introductory classes where you can learn to sail
Learn about our classic Hereshoff yacht Mashnee, and how to go sailing on her in Boston Harbor & beyond
You've mastered the basics of sailing the Tech, now learn more advanced sailing techniques
Scratch that competitive itch in a low-pressure racing class
Want to take up to 7 of your friends out on the river with you? Earn your Provisional and Lynx ratings to sail our "big boats" on the Charles River
Earn your Provisional rating to sail the 420, Laser, UFO, Wazp; our advanced and high-performance boats

The MIT Sailing Pavilion, known as the “Pav,” is a unique and special place. The birthplace of college sailing, it is steeped in history, providing as picture-perfect an escape from the intense pressures of the Institute today as it did at its founding in 1935. The Pav welcomes all members of the MIT community, inviting them to learn, connect, and even compete amid great sportsmanship and camaraderie.

Here, there are offerings for every sailing enthusiast: instructional classes for all experience levels, both entry-level and highly competitive racing events, relaxing sails on stable catboats, coastal cruising and racing aboard the classic Bluewater Mashnee, and high-performance sailing equipment for heart-racing adventures. 

As the name implies, the MIT Sailing Pavilion is and always has been the go-to place for all things sailing, but it is also a center for recreational programs that cultivate teamwork and sportsmanship, a relaxing riverfront oasis for gathering and socializing, and a picturesque setting for roof deck and party space rentals

The Pav is open to every MIT student and affiliate, whether current or former, based on varying criteria. For those with regular MITNA membership, all programs are free of charge, a commitment we are able to maintain thanks to indispensable financial support from MIT members at every stage of association with the school. We are also sustained by an enthusiastic, indispensable crew of volunteers that we encourage anyone interested to join. Click here to find out more.

MIT Sailing Pavilion entrance