Merrill Family Sailing Center

* Merrill Family Sailing Center Emergency Action Plan

Cornell Community Sailing at Merrill Family Sailing Center

Welcome to the Merrill Family Sailing Center, where the beauty of Cayuga Lake meets the excitement of sailing. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or new to the sport, our welcoming community invites you to explore the joys of sailing in Ithaca, N.Y.

Join Us for Sailing on Cayuga Lake

At Cornell Community Sailing, we offer a variety of programs and memberships designed to cater to all levels of sailing enthusiasts. Our mission is to provide a welcoming environment where individuals and families can learn, practice, and enjoy sailing.

Memberships: Gain access to our fleet and facilities with monthly and seasonal membership options. Cornell affiliates are encouraged to login as a Cornell Faculty/Staff/Student when viewing membership options for access to exclusive discounts. Explore Memberships
Programs and Events: Participate in our diverse array of sailing classing, from beginner to advanced lessons for both youth and adult participants. Discover Our Programs

Why Sail with Us?

Experienced Instructors: Learn from skilled instructors who are passionate about sailing and dedicated to helping you improve your skills.
Equipment & Facilities: Enjoy access to sailing equipment and facilities at the Merrill Family Sailing Center.
Stunning Location: Enjoy the beauty of Cayuga Lake while you learn.
Community Spirit: Be part of a supportive and friendly sailing community that celebrates the love of the sport.

Special Event Space

Our special event space is available for booking by Cornell departments and organizations, offering a unique and memorable setting for your next gathering.

Capacity: Accommodates up to 50 people
Location: Situated on the second floor, featuring a deck with stunning views over Cayuga Lake
Enhance Your Event: Option to include a sailing team-building activity for a dynamic and engaging experience

Book your event with us and enjoy the perfect blend of scenic beauty and team-building fun!

Location

Nestled on the shores of Cayuga Lake, the Merrill Family Sailing Center offers stunning views and an ideal location for both recreational sailing and competitive events.

607-253-2510
MerrillSC@Cornell.edu
1000 E Shore Dr, Ithaca, NY 14850

Get Involved

Ready to set sail with us? Visit our membership page to find the perfect option for you, or check out our program offerings to see how you can get started. We look forward to welcoming you to the Cornell Community Sailing family!

Explore Memberships | Discover Our Programs

More About the Merrill Family Sailing Center

The Merrill Family Sailing Center is named in honor of the late Philip Merrill '55. He was an accomplished publisher, diplomat, civic leader, and philanthropist, known for his passion for sound journalism and international affairs.

A graduate of the College of Arts and Sciences, Phil began his life in journalism at Cornell, serving as managing editor of the Cornell Daily Sun. In 1968, he purchased Capital Gazette Newspapers, which published a number of community newspapers in Maryland. He led the company until his death in 2006, tripling its newspaper circulation and adding the Washingtonian Magazine.

On the first floor there are several classrooms, a team room, a trophy case, and extensive storage space for gear and equipment. The second floor opens up onto a large deck and features a large banquet room as well as coaches' offices.

During the same period, he maintained a vigorous commitment to public service, giving generously his time and talents as a diplomat and financier for six administrations of the federal government. President George W. Bush appointed him to serve as president and chair of the nation's' Export-Import Bank in 2002, a position he held until 2005.

He was appointed a life member of Cornell University Council in 1999 and named a Presidential Councilor—the highest honor the university can bestow—in 2003. In addition to his support for the Merrill Family Sailing Center, Phil's generosity has also enabled the university to develop and maintain the Merrill Presidential Fellows Program, which honors excellence in teaching at the university and secondary levels.

Phil learned to sail on Long Island Sound as a child. His passion for the sport continued throughout his life. He actively enjoyed cruising adventures in the Caribbean and Mediterranean Seas, as well as the Indian and South Pacific Oceans. He was happiest, however, aboard his sailboat ‘Merrilly' cruising the waters of the Chesapeake Bay with family and friends.

The sailing center has replaced our A-frame boathouse at East Shore. The building has two stories and houses not just the team, but also recreational sailing, community sailing, and has excellent space for a limnology lab. On the first floor there is a large team room with lockers, extensive storage space for equipment, as well as two classrooms. The second floor features a large banquet room, coaches' offices, and it opens up onto a large deck. The deck provides visitors with a tremendous view of the area where we host races.

Construction began late November 2007. The building was dedicated on 9 May 2009 by the Merrill Family, and Susan Murphy (Vice President for Student Services and Academic Services) as well as our Provost Kent Fuchs, during a marvelous day of alumni activities, including a Team racing event and barbecue in glorious sunshine.