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Women's Sailing

Women’s participation in sailing and racing in Narragansett Bay continues to grow.

NBYA encourages women’s sailing across Narragansett Bay and beyond by sharing:

  • Information on women’s sailing events
  • Building community among women sailors
  • Facilitating education on sailing and racing topics among women.

News

Calendar

(Women's Events Only below, add your event, or see full calendar)

Education and Social Events

Engines 101: A Hands-On Workshop on Marine Engines for Women
When: Monday, February 23
Where:  Ragged Island Brewing Company, Portsmouth, RI
What: This educational gathering is a welcoming, low-pressure introduction to how engines actually work—designed especially for folks who may have felt intimidated by them, and anyone who enjoys getting their hands dirty and wants to join in on the fun with friends. Hosted by Cary Kaczowka, an engineer and longtime Society of Women Engineers member, this small-group workshop demystifies engines through real tools, real components, and collaborative learning.  
Learn More and Register 

RI Women's Sailing Event: Need for Speed
When: Tuesday, March 24, 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Barrington Yacht Club
What: Join nationally ranked speed ice sailors Karen Binder and her husband, James Thieler to learn about this exciting and fast winter sailing sport. This event is open to all women sailors and their +1 guests (male or female). Registration is required. Doors will open at 6:00 PM. The presentation will begin at 6:30 PM. Sandwiches and snacks will be served. A cash bar will be open. While this event is free, donations will be accepted to help cover the cost of snacks and sandwiches. 
Learn More and Register

Women’s Smarter Sailing Social
When: Tuesday, April 28, from 6:00 - 8:30 PM
Where: Wickford Yacht Club, N. Kingston, RI
What: Which sailing topics would you like to level up your knowledge and skills in?  Join experts on topics such as marine electronics, navigation, weather, and sail trim for an evening of small-group discussions. More details and a registration link will be posted here by March 15.  Meanwhile, Learn More: Contact Winnie Hagan, Seminars Chair at the Wickford Yacht Club at winniehagan@gmail.com

Women’s Racing

The Rhode Island Yacht Club and Barrington Yacht Club are inviting women skippers and their women crews to participate in PHRF races during the summer of 2026. 

Barrington Yacht Club’s 2026 Ole Ladies' Cup (Monday, Aug 10), More Information: Kristen Kreuzkamp, Race Committee Chair/ Email: racing@barringtonyc.com


Rhode Island Yacht Club’s 2026 Ladies Cup Regatta (Date to Be Announced). Celebrating the competitive spirit of women sailors in Narragansett Bay, the RIYC’s Ladies Cup is one of the oldest perpetual trophies in women’s sailing. Participants must have women captains and crews, with at least 50% female members. More Information: race@riyc.org

Sailing Classes

Women Sailing and Boating Conference: Learn, Connect, and Build Confidence
When: Saturday, April 25, 2026
Where: Cove Haven Marina, Barrington, RI
Learn More and Register HERE

Sailing Lessons for Women in Bristol
When: Monday Evenings,June 22 to July 27
Where: Bristol Yacht Club, Bristol, RI.
Learn More and Register HERE

Sailing Lessons for Women in Jamestown
When: Summer 2026 (Details TBD)
Where: Conanicut Island Sailing Foundation (CISF)
Learn More: Contact Meg Myles, CISF Program Director at Meg@jamestownsailing.org