Caitlin Drinkard, Class of 2025
I took the novice sailing class in 2025 after a friend recommended it to me. I’d always wanted to learn to sail. The EBC class was the most affordable option to learn to sail on the Detroit River. Other programs in the area charge $500+ for 5-6 weeks of classes while EBC’s classes run all season (20+ weeks) for a fraction of that. EBC is one of the most accessible learn-to-sail program in the area.
The friendly community of EBC sailors, the instructors, and having a reason to spend time out on the water every week kept me coming back. It really opened the door to the whole world of boating on the Detroit River & Lake St Clair. The access that EBC provides, because of its non-profit status and low cost of entry, and the community that EBC has built over the years, make it a really special entity that deserves a home on the river.
Without EBC, I would not have been able to learn to sail and get tapped into all the fun that comes with living in a maritime city and the recreation opportunities that are here.
Adolfo Campoy-Cubillo
I sailed regularly when I was a kid, then I moved to Michigan and tried to find a place to sail that I could afford. I was surprised to realize that despite the abundance of water, access to the lake and to a sailboat was hard to come by. When I found EBC, I felt at home from day one. Everybody was welcoming and happy to help you enjoy sailing on the lake. EBC greatly contributes to make public access a reality.
Martha Webb, Class of 2025
As a long time member of EBC, I have been around sailboats for many years. It wasn’t until I took the Adult Learn to Sail class that I really understood and appreciated the fine art of sailing. All of the instructors are knowledgeable, patient and totally dedicated to the sport. The participants are great people as well. Having the class at Grayhaven State Harbor is truly the best option for all of us. Through this program we are able to enjoy sailing at an affordable price in the beautiful city of Detroit.
Jorge Gonzalez del Pozo, Class of 2023
A friend brought me over one night. I had never sailed in my life prior to this; since then, I´m hooked, not only to sailing, but especially because of the people who organize and care for EBC and Greyhaven State Harbor. They truly care and are the most positive influence on that marina and collective. They should be praised for what they do selflessly and allowed to keep using the marina.
Jacqueline, Class of 2026
I have taken learn to sail classes with a few different organizations in the city. The learn to sail at Edison Boat club is the best option for those looking to really enjoy and learn the skill of sailing. The price point to participate is affordable and the length of the program allows for skills to be developed and built upon. It’s the best opportunity for anyone in the city to enter what is historically a “class” based activity. The instructors (volunteers) knowledge and patience with novices is incredible. The love the members have for sailing radiates throughout the club. The boat club is the best resource I have found to learn to sail as an adult.
Sarah Z, Class of 2026
I first learned about EBC through neighbors who are members. I had been interested in sailing for years, but believed that the financial barrier to entry was too high for me to be able to access the sport. I was so thrilled to learn about EBC and to be able to join the adult learn to sail class at Grayhaven Marina. It has been a true highlight of my summer and wonderful way to experience the Detroit river. EBC’s all-volunteer instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and detail and safety oriented. The group has a true spirit of community – feeding and supporting one another, caring for the marina and boats, and welcoming newcomers to the mix. It is also an inclusive, diverse group – exactly the kind that should be uplifted for its contributions to the fabric of Detroit.
Ours is a city on the water whose residents often feel they cannot access recreation in the place we call home. Organizations that lower barriers to entry and and show people of all backgrounds they CAN access that resource should be celebrated and supported.
Trish Hubbell, Class of 2026
I learned about EBC from friends of mine who are members, and decided to check out the sailing classes. As a lifelong Detroiter, I grew up on the water. We always had a power boat and learned to swim and water ski at an early age.
I was most interested in spending time again on the river, and sailing is a beautiful and quiet way to connect with the water. I really appreciate the diversity of our club members (age, race, ethnicity, etc). Love of sailing brings us all together!
I had a great summer learning the basics of sailing, and also developed a real respect for the intricacies of the sport! I have a long way to go before I get a skipper’s license, but I plan to be back next year! EBC is well managed by a terrific group of caring and patient sailors. We always shared food and drink after each lesson, swapping stories and getting better acquainted.
My EBC sailing experience is on the top of my 2026 gratitude list!
Gary Hancock, Class of 2012
I learned about EBC in early 2000 when I started attending training and team meetings at EBC. I visited a membership drive and had a great deal of fun learning about the boat club so joined. A few years later I took the novice sailing class. I got a skippers card in 2012.
I continue to be active at in the Novice Class now hosted at Grayhaven Marina. The location is great as it is close to where the original club was. Most of the skippers are really familiar with the area and travel to Grayhaven is similar in distance as original club location.
The current novice class has strong participation with new students and experienced skippers. The program is robust and brings a great deal of energy to our club gatherings and all the sailing activities held throughout the week.
I continue to be proud of EBC’s contribution to Detroit sailing. We have an affordable and inclusive program that I think makes an impact on sailing and Eastside Detroit.