Courageous Sailing

Courageous Sailing was established in 1987 as a 501(c)(3) by the late South Boston sailing enthusiast Harry McDonough. It was Harry’s dream to use sailing to build character and camaraderie among Boston children from all economic and ethnic backgrounds. For over 25 years, we have continued to grow and deliver our mission to transform children’s lives through sailing programs that inspire learning, personal growth and leadership. In Harry’s words, “Every child's perspective is improved 50-yards off-shore.”

Established in 1987 as a 501(c)(3) by the late South Boston sailing enthusiast Harry McDonough, Courageous is now a nationally recognized, year-round educational center for community sailing and youth development. Courageous offers Boston-area youth free and low-cost out-of-school-time programs in sailing, environmental education, job skills development, and leadership training.

Harry’s words, “Every child's perspective is improved 50-yards off-shore” continue to drive us in our mission.

Our MissionTransforming children's lives through sailing programs that inspire learning, personal growth and leadership.

Our VisionA community that embraces sailing as a platform for life-long learning, personal growth and leadership; a center of sailing excellence committed to removing barriers to access for all Boston youth, the public and people with physical and intellectual challenges.