Community Boating’s Universal Access Program (UAP) invites individuals of all abilities, along with their families, caregivers, support staff, and community partners, to join us for an Adaptive Sailing Open House on Saturday, May 23rd from 10am–1pm on the Charles River Esplanade.
This free event is an opportunity to experience adaptive sailing firsthand and learn more about Community Boating’s Universal Access Program. Guests will have the chance to get out on the water aboard our specially equipped sailboats, tour the boathouse, meet instructors and volunteers, and see how the program supports sailors with a wide range of abilities, backgrounds, and support needs.
Adaptive sailing at Community Boating is designed around the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the freedom, independence, and confidence that comes from being on the water. Through adaptive equipment, individualized instruction, one-on-one support, and recreational sailing opportunities, UAP serves children, teens, and adults with a wide range of physical, cognitive, sensory, and developmental disabilities, as well as veterans and individuals recovering from illness or injury. Participants are encouraged to learn and progress at their own pace in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Community Boating launched the Universal Access Program in 2007 through a collaboration with the DCR Universal Access Program, the Executive Office of Environmental Affairs’ Office of Public-Private Partnerships, and Genzyme Corporation. For nearly 20 years, the program has helped remove barriers to recreation and outdoor adventure while creating meaningful opportunities for connection, skill-building, and independence on the water.
Whether you are interested in learning to sail, looking for accessible recreational opportunities in Greater Boston, or simply curious about the program, this open house is a chance to see adaptive sailing in action and connect with the Community Boating community.
Annual membership to the Universal Access Program is just $50, with additional financial assistance available for those who need it.
24 Hours. One River. Endless Impact.
In 2026, Community Boating, Inc. marks 80 years of public access sailing on the Charles River. For eight decades, CBI has been guided by a simple idea: Sailing for All. The Sail-a-thon honors that legacy while directly investing in what comes next. Help us reach our goal of $100,000!
For a full day and night, teams will keep their boats moving around the Charles River Basin, sailing as many laps as possible. Every lap is more than a mark rounded. It is direct support for youth learning confidence on the water, adaptive sailors finding freedom, and outreach programs reaching local schools and neighborhoods.
Funds raised through the Sail-a-thon directly power Community Boating’s mission of Sailing for All. Your participation or gift helps ensure that people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can experience the confidence, freedom, and joy that comes from being on the water. Whether you are cheering on a team, making a gift, or sailing through the night, you are carrying 80 years of impact forward and helping to set the course for the next generation of sailors.
More details coming soon!
The Best Seat in Boston for the 4th of July!
Buy Your Tickets Today!
Celebrate Independence Day from the heart of the action while supporting Community Boating’s mission of Sailing for All. Your ticket is more than just an incredible view, it is a direct investment in keeping sailing accessible and affordable for our entire community.
Escape the crowds on the Esplanade while still soaking in the electric atmosphere, breathtaking fireworks, and world-famous Boston Pops performance.
Inside our gates, you’ll find a fun, festive, and family-friendly celebration with all the perks:
- Live DJ and a simulcast of the Boston Pops concert
- Three massive inflatable Jumbotrons for the best concert views
- Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream
- Unlimited Polar Beverages (water & seltzer)
- DJ, Face painting, & a photobooth
Families and friends of all ages love our environment, away from the overwhelming crowds but still in the heart of the action. Bring your own non-alcoholic drinks and snacks, relax, and enjoy an unforgettable Boston 4th of July experience!
More details to come!
More details to come!
