About Adaptive Sailing Offshore
Adaptive Sailing Offshore (AO) is a community resource for safe, inclusive offshore experiences for sailors of diverse abilities, with particular focus on individuals benefiting from additional adaptations.
We operate two donated 33' Beneteau Figaro 2 sailboats out of Boston Harbor, sailing throughout New England coastal waters within areas covered by SeaTow. Our activities are conducted in appropriate conditions year-round.
By reducing common barriers to offshore sailing, AO empowers a diverse community of sailors to gain confidence, experience, and connection at sea.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
To build the broadest possible sailing community by expanding access to offshore sailing from Boston Harbor for people with varied abilities and backgrounds.
We focus on reducing barriers that limit participation in the sport, and welcome sailors of different abilities, experience levels, and economic circumstances.
Vision
A diverse offshore sailing community where seamanship, confidence, and inclusive experiences are how we measure success.
We envision a future where offshore sailing is broadly accessible to people with varied abilities experience the challenge and growth that comes from sailing offshore.
Leadership Team
Leadership Team
Kay VanValkenburgh
President
A dedicated teammate to competitive adaptive sailors since the early 2000s, Kay brings a deep understanding of integrated crew dynamics and on-the-water partnership to this role.
Pauline Dowell
Director
A competitive blind sailor who competes in both mainstream and adaptive events around the world. Living aboard her own boat in Boston Harbor, Pauline is a testament to the freedom and independence that sailing offers.
Andrew Alletag
Director
As a former member of the Community Boating, Inc. (CBI) management team, Andrew played a key role in establishing their inclusive access programs, bringing a wealth of experience in creating accessible and successful community sailing initiatives.
Brad Moriarty
Treasurer
A lifelong offshore sailor, educator, and adventurer, Brad combines his passion for the sea with entrepreneurial experience to guide AO's financial stewardship and sustainable growth.
Advisors
Rich Wilson
An extraordinary offshore sailor, Rich is America's only two-time finisher of the Vendée Globe solo non-stop around-the-world race. As President of the Collegiate Offshore Sailing Circuit (COSC), he is a leader in creating pathways for the next generation of offshore mariners.
Liz Baylis
A Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year and Match Racing World Champion, Liz is a leader in creating opportunities for women in sailing. As Executive Director of the Women's International Match Racing Association (WIMRA), she has championed inclusion at the highest levels of the sport.
Carol Hesson
A USCG-licensed Captain and US Sailing certified Race Coach, Carol has run adaptive racing programs and the largest women's racing program in the country. She is a passionate professional instructor dedicated to empowering people through hands-on experience on the water.
Cindy Walker
A competitive Paralympic sailor who has trained and competed at the highest levels in the SKUD 18 class. Cindy is a powerful advocate for adaptive sports, embodying the principle that sailing is a space where disability becomes secondary to skill and teamwork.
Sarah Everhart Skeels
An elite competitor and leader in the adaptive sailing community, Sarah is a frequent winner of the Clagett Regatta. As a co-founder of AdaptiveSailingEquipment.com, she is dedicated to developing and sharing the knowledge needed to expand sailing accessibility.
Dave DiLorenzo
As the Executive Director of Courageous Sailing, Dave leads one of Boston's premier non-profit community sailing centers. His extensive experience in growing instruction, racing, and adaptive sailing programs makes him an invaluable resource for community-focused maritime initiatives.
Geoff Hyatt
As the founder of Good Sports, a nationwide charity that creates equitable access to sports equipment for youth, Geoff brings deep expertise in building successful non-profit organizations and fostering community through sport.
David Jegen
As a Managing Partner at F-Prime Capital and co-founder of the non-profit Fintech Sandbox, David is an expert in building successful companies and community-driven ecosystems. He serves on the board of Artists for Humanity and brings deep strategic insight to our mission.
Contact Us
Get in Touch
Ready to join us or have questions? We'd love to hear from you. Send us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Location
Sailing out of Boston Harbor since July 2025
Status
501(c)(3) status pending
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