ORANGE BEACH, Ala. -- The City of Orange Beach Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for another successful Summer Sail Camp program.

This will be the ninth year the city has offered youth sailing camps. The camps are open to junior sailors ages 9 to 14. As in previous years, there will be morning and afternoon sessions.

The morning sessions will be from 9 a.m.-noon for beginning sailors. The afternoon sessions will be held from 1:30-4:30 p.m. for intermediate sailors. Each session runs Monday through Friday.

 For the past eight years the program has been conducted from Waterfront Park on Canal Road. This year, however, a new site is being prepared, according to Parks and Recreation Office Manager and Sail Camp Coordinator, Jeanne Fitzgibbons.

“After our 2011 program ended, we approached the City Council and asked that waterfront property behind the Orange Beach Library be designated as a site for Sail Camp," she said. "The Council approved the request and work is underway to have the site ready for camp this summer.”

She also added, “The grounds will be ready but we’ll be working out of a temporary trailer and plan to begin construction on a permanent building to house the program after camp ends this summer. We’re seeking supporters to help with the construction costs."

Sail Camp session dates are: June 4-8, June 11-15, June 18-22, June 25-June 29, July 9–13, July 16–20 and July 23–27. More dates may be added, based on class demand.

Registration for Orange Beach residents began on March 21. Registration for non-residents began April 23. The fee is $105 per student per session for Orange Beach residents and $130 per student per session for non-residents.

Camp sailors are required to bring their own life jackets, towel, water bottle and wear water shoes.

Applications for the camps are available at Orange Beach City Hall or on the Parks & Recreation web site, www.obparksandrec.com Applications should be submitted to the Parks & Recreation office located at City Hall on Hwy. 161. Mail applications to City of Orange Beach, Parks & Recreation Department, P.O. Box 458, Orange Beach, AL 36561.

In addition, organizers are planning to offer several weekend classes for Adults. Call 251-981-1524 for further information.