About Nantucket Community Sailing
Our Mission
Nantucket Community Sailing's mission is to engage people of all ages in the joy of sailing, offering access to all Nantucket's youth, and teaching every participant in our programs enduring life and leadership skills, with a deep respect for the marine environment.
Who We Are
Nantucket Community Sailing is a US Sailing accredited nonprofit Community Sailing Center and a licensed Massachusetts Recreational Camp for Children. Founded to remove barriers to sailing, NCS serves island residents, seasonal families, and visitors through youth camps, lessons, rentals, community partnerships, and signature sailing events.
Each season, NCS introduces hundreds of new sailors to the water while supporting returning participants as they build skills, confidence, and independence. Programs are led by experienced instructors who prioritize safety, inclusion, and hands-on learning.
Recognized nationally by US Sailing, NCS has received several awards, including Outstanding Seasonal Program (2010), Outstanding Outreach and Inclusion (2014), and Outstanding Program Director (2023).
Our Story
Nantucket Community Sailing was founded in 1994 by a group of island educators, sailors, and community leaders who believed sailing should be accessible to all Nantucket youth. Beginning with a small program at Polpis Harbor, NCS quickly earned national recognition for excellence in community sailing.
Over the decades, the organization has expanded its programs, fleet, and impact—introducing thousands of young sailors to the water and creating signature events like Nantucket Race Week. Today, NCS serves more than 900 youth annually while remaining deeply committed to environmental stewardship and its founding mission of community access through sailing.
Our Impact
NCS believes that time on the water builds confidence, responsibility, and connection—to both community and environment. With the support of donors, volunteers, and partners, our impact continues to grow each year.
More than 1,000 children and adults participate in NCS programs annually
Over $150,000 in scholarships and free programming awarded each year
Partnerships with local schools and community organizations across Nantucket
Recognition as a US Sailing Accredited Community Sailing Center
As Nantucket Community Sailing continues to grow, our focus remains the same: expanding access to the water, strengthening community partnerships, and inspiring the next generation of sailors and leaders. Through continued investment in programs, facilities, and scholarships, NCS is committed to ensuring that Nantucket’s maritime heritage remains vibrant, inclusive, and accessible for years to come.
Whether you’re interested in enrolling a sailor, volunteering your time, or supporting our mission, there are many ways to get and stay involved.
The Ones that Make it Happen
President & Chief Executive: Diana Brown
Boats & Facilities Manager: Pascal Antonietti
Assistant Program Director: Emily Aswad
Director of Special Projects: Bobby Constable
Maintenance Assistant: Matt Fabiszak
Program Manager: Haley Johnson
Project & Development Manager: Louisa Lindgren
Program Director: Emily Taylor
