Our Mission

To connect people to the water through education and recreation.

The WaterFront Center (WFC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in Oyster Bay, New York. We provide access to the waters of Oyster Bay Harbor and Long Island Sound through our marine education programs, recreational and instructional sailing programs, paddleboard, kayak, and sailboat rentals, and through harbor tours aboard our National Historic Landmark oyster sloop CHRISTEEN. Additionally, WFC is home to IDA MAY, a replica of one of the first engine-powered oyster dredges, which now serves as a floating classroom, offering hands-on educational experiences that connect visitors to the rich maritime history of Oyster Bay.

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Dive into the Waterfront Experience

A Community Sailing & Marine Education Nonprofit Since 2000

Harbor Highlights: Unveiling The WaterFront Center

News & Blog
Thank You For A Wonderful Annual Benefit
Thank You For A Wonderful Annual Benefit

The WaterFront Center is excited to announce the resounding success of its 26th Annual Benefit, held last week on October 1st 2026, at the beautiful Sea Cliff Yacht Club. This cocktail party, with live music by The Ronald Reagans and plenty of auction items, hosted a large, vibrant crowd and raised over $100,000 to support the organization’s mission of connecting people to the water through education and recreation.

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Oyster Bay Cup Regatta Recap
Oyster Bay Cup Regatta Recap

This past Saturday was our Oyster Bay Cup Regatta! This fundraising racing event was filled with competitive spirit, fun, and some beautiful weather. Check out the recap here.

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Field Trip Aboard IDA MAY - Jericho High School
Field Trip Aboard IDA MAY - Jericho High School

This past Wednesday, students from Jericho High School visited The WaterFront Center for an environmental science field trip aboard IDA MAY! Read about the different things they learned, as well as how we are making a difference for local schools and getting students involved in the field.

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Women on the Water: The WaterFront Center Featured in Newsday Cover Story
Women on the Water: The WaterFront Center Featured in Newsday Cover Story

The WaterFront Center’s Women on the Water sailing community was featured in Newsday’s “A Sailing Sisterhood,” celebrating women across Long Island who are building skills, confidence and community through sailing.

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Junior Summer Program Session 4
Junior Summer Program Session 4

Our fourth and final session of the Junior Summer Program, held August 3rd-August 14th, has come to an end. What an incredible summer out on Oyster Bay Harbor at The WaterFront Center, where kids spent their days sailing, fishing, and exploring the marine environment. The experiences and memories created at the Junior Summer Program will last a lifetime.

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Junior Summer Program Session 3
Junior Summer Program Session 3

Campers made lasting memories and enjoyed unforgettable adventures as they explored marine education, fishing, and sailing on the beautiful Oyster Bay Harbor during the third session of the Junior Summer Program with The WaterFront Center. Check out photos and summaries from your child's adventure this summer!

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Junior Summer Program Session 2
Junior Summer Program Session 2

During Session Two of the Junior Summer Program, our campers made the most of both the rain and the heat, making lifelong memories through sailing, fishing, marine education, bird watching, and more! See photos from your child's adventure this summer as they enjoy unforgettable childhood experiences.

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Junior Summer Program Session 1
Junior Summer Program Session 1

See photos from your child's adventure this summer as they make unforgettable childhood memories through our Session 1 Junior Summer Program!

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2026 WFC Calendar
2026 WFC Calendar
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A Look Back at What Makes The WaterFront Center So Special
A Look Back at What Makes The WaterFront Center So Special
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Our Valued Partners

Supervisor Joseph S. Saladino, Town of Oyster Bay

Boys & Girls Club of Oyster Bay - East Norwich

Community Foundation of Oyster Bay

Friends of The Bay

LIOGA

North Shore Land Alliance

Oakcliff Sailing

Oyster Bay Bayman's Association

Oyster Bay Cold Spring Harbor Protection Committee

Oyster Bay Main Street Association

Oyster Bay Marine Center

Oyster Bay Sailing Foundation

Sagamore Yacht Club

Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club

Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary and Audubon Center

US Sailing

Youth & Family Counseling Agency of Oyster Bay - East Norwich

Thank You To Our Sponsors

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