The Niantic Bay Sailing Academy (NBSA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization based at the Niantic Bay Yacht Club in Niantic, CT.
We offer a 4 or 8 week summer program providing instruction for ages 7 – 17. All abilities are welcome – from beginner sailors to those who seek more competitive racing. Classes meet several times per week for several hours depending on ability. Participants must be able to swim and pass a swim test before they can begin sailing. Boats are provided.
Full or partial scholarships for the 4 or 8 week program are available to students. Scholarships to reimburse regatta fees are also available. We are especially seeking local youth who may not have otherwise been exposed to sailing, a sport which offers camaraderie, fun, competition and the development of lifelong skills.
We hope that the experiences gained through the NBSA program can encourage youth to make sailing a lifelong passion, whether it be cruising, competitive racing, day sailing, or just enjoying the outdoors on the water.
To apply for a full or partial scholarship, please complete the Dr. Bill Healy Scholarship Fund Application by May 1, 2023.
We also offer scholarship support to families who are seeking regatta fee reimbursement. Please complete the last page of this form by September 1, 2023.
Return the completed form and direct any questions to:
Ken Shluger
Niantic Bay Sailing Academy
PO Box 884
Niantic, CT 06357
Or scan and email to kshluger@hotmail.com.
You will be notified by May 10, 2023.
Dr. Bill Healy Scholarship Fund
The Niantic Bay Sailing Academy (NBSA) has established a scholarship in honor of the late Dr. J. William "Bill" Healy, a legendary figure in the local sailing community. The Dr. Bill Healy Scholarship Fund aims to provide financial assistance to deserving young sailors who wish to further their skills and passion for sailing at the NBSA. The scholarship is a testament to Dr. Healy’s unwavering dedication to sailing and his significant contributions to the Niantic Bay Yacht Club (NYBC).
About Dr. Bill Healy
Dr. Bill Healy was a mainstay at the Niantic Bay Yacht Club, having been a member since the 1940s. He was a champion sailor in 505s, Lightnings, and cruising classes, showcasing his exceptional talent on the water. His love for sailing was evident in the time he dedicated to the sport and his endless enthusiasm for sharing this passion with others. Dr. Healy was a major contributor to the NBYC board, and he held the position of Rear Commodore for five years.
Dr. Healy's legacy extends beyond the walls of the NBYC, as he was a true advocate for sailing education throughout the community. He volunteered countless hours, sharing his knowledge and passion with young sailors, inspiring them to pursue their dreams on the water. His commitment to the sport was also evident in his competitive spirit, as he participated in numerous sailing regattas and events throughout his life, garnering several accolades along the way.
Who Should Apply for the Scholarship?
In honor of Dr. Healy’s unwavering commitment to sailing and his contributions to NBYC, the Dr. Bill Healy Scholarship Fund is recommended to NBYC families to provide financial support to our young sailors. Recognizing the high costs of sailing, the Dr. Bill Healy Scholarship Fund is in place to eliminate financial barriers for NBYC members, as well as members of the local community. The scholarship will cover course fees and equipment for students participating in NBSA programs, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder their ability to learn and grow in the sport that Dr. Healy so passionately loved.
How do I apply?
Details and application requirements for the Dr. Bill Healy Scholarship Fund can be found on the Niantic Bay Sailing Academy's website at https://nianticsailing.org/scholarships. The academy encourages all eligible young sailors to apply, in hopes that Dr. Healy’s legacy will continue to inspire and shape the future generations of the sailing community. Donations to help grow the scholarship fund can also be made on that site.
The Niantic Bay Sailing Academy, through the Dr "Bill" Healy Scholarship Fund honors the incredible life and contributions of a man who devoted himself to sailing and the betterment of the community. His memory will live on through the countless lives he touched and the young sailors who will continue to benefit from his dedication to the sport.