Marina del Rey's Russell Walker W.A.T.E.R. Youth Program Sets Sail for Spring Break

Get ready to set sail this Spring Break, as the Russell Walker W.A.T.E.R. Youth Program invites youngsters to embark on an aquatic adventure in Marina del Rey. According to Los Angeles County's X post, the Department of Beaches and Harbors is re-opening its sails for the season, aiming to provide kids with a whole wave of outdoor fun and education.

For those landlubbers looking to become seasoned sailors, the camp offers courses in beginning and intermediate sailing where participants learn the ropes – quite literally. From sailing terminology, boat maintenance, and rigging, to knot tying, tacking, and docking, these young mariners are in for an immersive experience. And for the braver souls with prior experience, the advanced sailing class awaits, ready to take on the vast blue with a more challenging curriculum. As per the official program page, the dates for the beginner-level session are set from March 26-29, with each day's training running from 10 am to 4 pm.

But let's talk turkey – or should we say, fish? It'll cost you $300 for the four-day session, but don’t let the price make you seasick; financial aid is available for families that qualify. This isn't just about making a buck, but making a difference in these kids' lives – a fitting tribute to the late Assistant Chief Lifeguard Russell Walker, who launched this program to inspire youth from diverse backgrounds to pursue ocean-related careers.

The W.A.T.E.R. program isn't just about sailing; there's also an Ocean Safety Day by reservation, where public school kids can dive into various ocean safety topics free of charge. For tuition-based schools and organizations, there will be a fee. This day-long coastal class covers everything from CPR to kayaking, making sure students from 2nd to 12th grade leave with not just a tan, but perhaps a newfound respect for the sea and those who work to keep beachgoers safe. Those interested in catching this educational wave should contact (424) 526-7889, as stated on the program site.

Last year, the Russell Walker W.A.T.E.R. Program taught up to 6,000 youth through its diverse offerings. So, if you’re thinking about whether your kid should be part of this, remember it's more than a camp – it's a launchpad for life skills and possibly even a future career navigating the high seas. For more details or to fill out the interest survey, steer your browser to the youth program's webpage and get ready for an exciting Spring Break ahead. Anchors aweigh!