Bayfront Maritime Center

There is one spot left for tonight's adult sailing learn to sail session; please reach out if interested. Bayfront Maritime Center

With Lakeshore Towing Services Inc. – We just got recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

A behind‑the‑scenes look at what’s happening at EASE:
Our volunteers are constructing a new floating dock for boat storage as we gear up for the 2026 season.

This project will help us better organize our fleet and support smoother operations all summer long. We’re proud of the craftsmanship and commitment our volunteers bring to every part of the program.

Thank you to Lakeshore Towing Services Inc. for the frame! Thank you for our hardworking volunteers

At Bayfront Maritime Center, we believe everyone should have the chance to enjoy Presque Isle Bay—no boat required.

Our program gives you access to kayaks, canoes, and sailboats without the cost or hassle of owning equipment. Just come down to BMC and get on the water.

If you’ve ever dreamed of learning to sail, we also offer beginner lessons for both teens and adults.

It’s affordable, it’s welcoming, and it’s one of the best ways to experience summer in Erie. Bring your family, bring a friend, or come try something new for yourself.

Erie Western Pennsylvania Port Authority

Thank you so much Shari Riley for visiting during our open house! We hope you enjoy your new seabag!

Erie Western Pennsylvania Port Authority Sea Bags

Sailing Instructor

Position Title: Sailing Instructor Organization: Bayfront Maritime Center Location: Erie, PA

Employment Type: Seasonal / Part-Time Schedule: Flexible; evenings, weekends, special events

About the Bayfront Maritime Center
The Bayfront Maritime Center (BMC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people of all ages to Erie’s maritime heritage through education, recreation, workforce development, and community boating opportunities. Through our Sailing Lessons and Erie Community Boating program, we provide accessible, affordable, and inclusive sailing experiences that foster confidence, leadership, and a lifelong appreciation for the water.

Position Summary
The Bayfront Maritime Center is seeking enthusiastic, safety-minded Sailing Instructors to teach youth and adult sailing programs throughout the summer season. Instructors will provide hands-on instruction both on and off the water, ensuring participants develop sailing skills in a safe, engaging, and supportive environment.
This position offers a flexible schedule with opportunities to work evenings, weekends, camps, clinics, and special events.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Teach sailing lessons for beginner through intermediate sailors.
Lesson plans and instructional materials appropriate for participant skill levels.
Conduct pre-sailing safety briefings and on-water instruction.
Supervise participants while maintaining a positive and inclusive learning environment.
Operate and assist with the maintenance of program sailboats and equipment.
Monitor weather and water conditions to ensure safe program operations.
Assist with launching, docking, and securing vessels.
Maintain accurate attendance and incident records.
Qualifications Required
Current sailing instructor certification from a recognized organization such as:
US Sailing Small Boat Instructor Certification (Level 1 or higher), or equivalent
Current CPR and First Aid Certification
Sailing knowledge and on-water experience
Ability to safely supervise youth and adults in a waterfront environment
Ability to lift and move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds
Compensation Competitive hourly wage based on experience and certifications.

Why Join BMC?
Share your passion for sailing and boating.
Help expand public access to Erie’s waterfront.
Work in a fun, dynamic outdoor environment.
Make a lasting impact on youth and community members.
Join a team dedicated to maritime education and recreation.

To Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume, relevant certifications, and a brief statement of interest to the Bayfront Maritime Center Robin Mascharka, [email protected]

The Bayfront Maritime Center is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.

🎉 WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT! 🎉

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Bayfront Maritime Center Open House! We loved welcoming so many community members to our waterfront campus and sharing the exciting programs, opportunities, and experiences available through the Bayfront Maritime Center.

We're excited to announce that the winner of our Open House giveaway bag is:
🏆 Shari Riley🏆

Congratulations! Please send us a message or contact the Bayfront Maritime Center to arrange pickup of your prize.

A huge thank-you to everyone who attended, toured our facility, met our team, and learned more about our sailing, boating, maritime education, and community programs. Your support helps us continue our mission of connecting people of all ages to Erie's waterfront and maritime heritage. A special thank you to Mike at Anchor Coffee for providing coffee! It was delicious!!

Stay tuned for more events, classes, and opportunities to get out on the water this season!

⚓ See you on the bay!

We’ve had a lot of interest in our recent posts about Bayfront Maritime Center’s sailing classes for teens and adults, plus their Erie Community Boating program — and if you’ve been curious too, this is a great chance to check it all out in person.

ad | Bayfront Maritime Center is hosting open houses this week so families can stop by, ask questions and learn more about what they offer.

You’ll be able to see the boathouse and grounds, including the boat launch, kayak and canoe options, sailing programs, Borrow-a-Boat program and more.

Open house dates:

Friday, May 29 from 4–8 p.m.
Saturday, May 30 from 12–6 p.m.
Sunday, May 31 from 12–4 p.m.

If sailing, paddling or getting out on the water has been on your summer list, this is a great place to start! 🛶⛵️

Thank you again Erie Reader for sharing our upcoming programming for the summer season!⛵️⛵️⛵️

Have questions about joining us at the BMC and getting out on the water? Our First Open House - Day 1 is tomorrow! 👋🏼🛶

Wednesday, May 27 4-8pm
Friday, May 29 4-8pm
Saturday, May 30 12-6pm
Sunday, May 31 12-4pm

Bayfront Maritime Center Open House (5/29/2026, 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM) Come see what's going on this summer at BMC! Erie Community Boating (ECB) is a monthly membership-based borrow our boats program. ECB program is built t...