Next Tack
Spectrum Sailing is excited to introduce Next Tack, an innovative team-based sailing and mentorship program launching as a pilot in Sarasota, Florida in 2026. This program has been generously funded by a grant from NEXT for Autism and will be held in partnership with Sarasota Youth Sailing. Next Tack pairs autistic youth sailors with neurotypical high-school sailing peers to build connection, confidence, communication, and on-water sailing skills.
Next Tack represents the next level of our mission—creating inclusive sailing opportunities that go beyond introductory sailing and foster long-term growth both on and off the water. Spectrum Sailing will continue partnering with George Washington University’s Department of Occupational Therapy to conduct research on the Next Tack model. This ongoing collaboration will help us understand the program’s impact and strengthen its ability to support social, emotional, and developmental outcomes for autistic youth.
The Next Tack pilot program in Sarasota is just the beginning. Based on the success and learnings from this first cohort, we plan to expand Next Tack to additional locations nationwide in 2027. We are incredibly excited to launch this new chapter for Spectrum Sailing and look forward to sharing updates as the program grows.
Next Tack Community Regatta sees teen sailors mentor autistic youth
The Bradenton Times
