CLASSROOM OF THE WAVES

[grades 4 through college]

The deck of a traditional sailing ship is a uniquely powerful platform for learning about the river’s natural wonders and cultural significance. Students enjoy a refreshing educational experience aboard the Clearwater, a 106-foot wooden sailing sloop designed after 18th and 19th century Dutch sailing sloops.

The Legendary Floating Classroom
The centerpiece of Clearwater’s education program is Classroom of the Waves. On a three or five hour sail, students help raise the sails, navigate the boat, and set and haul in a fishing net. Split into groups of ten or less, they visit learning stations to examine and touch the day’s catch, perform water quality tests, and study plankton and other invertebrate life under field magnification. Our inquiry-based learning activities are both hands-on and relevant. A period of silent contemplation is part of each sail, as is music. Many other station options are available, and our on-board educators will help you design a field trip for your specific needs. Clearwater’s core curriculum has been developed to meet New York State Learning Standards. Classroom materials are available to complement all sail programs.