The Transformative Power of Sailing With Parkinson's

Discover the transformative power of sailing for people living with Parkinson’s disease. More than just a sport, sailing offers a unique blend of physical activity, cognitive stimulation, and emotional well-being.

The dynamic movement of the boat naturally engages balance, coordination, and core strength, all to help counteract stiffness and improve mobility. On the water, participants experience a calming environment that reduces stress and lifts mood, while the hands-on nature of sailing sharpens focus, problem-solving, and spatial awareness.

Whether you're trimming sails or steering the helm, sailing fosters confidence, connection, and joy—proving that life with Parkinson’s can still be full of movement, meaning, and adventure.

The Sailing with Parkinson's program is in the development stages as we develop funding and captain ambassadors from across Northern California. If you are a person with Parkinson's and are interested in participating when it's up and running, watch for information or email here to let us know.

We'd love to see Sailing with Parkinson's programs in collaboration with Yacht Clubs and captains across Northern California as program Ambassadors. If you captain a boat or represent a Yacht Club and want to know more, please let us know here.

Fleet

“You can’t control the wind, but you can adjust your sails." -- Jimmy Dean

Relaxed and safe
Hands-on participation or quiet enjoyment
Supportive small groups
Nature-based stress relief and camaraderie
Stimulates balance, coordination, and focus
Encourages deep breathing and stress release
Builds confidence through teamwork
Enhances mood and reduces anxiety
Promotes a sense of freedom and joy
Creates shared connection and belonging

Program in Development for People with Parkinson's and their Care Partners

The goal of this program is that Individuals living with a Parkinson's disease diagnosis who reside in Northern California along with a care partner will be invited to experience the transformative power of sailing. Funded and facilitated by the Neptune Project, in conjunction with the Parkinson Association of Northern California, the program is intended to provide grant-funded sailing excursions so even those with PD who may be experiencing shaky seas, can experience the transformation of steady sails.

Inspired by marine biologist Dr. Wallace J. Nichols’ "Blue Mind" concept, our program is intended to engage the natural healing benefits of being out in the wind, waves, and water, and finding meaning and new friendships through sailing.

Experienced and vetted yacht crews will be trained to support participants with varying mobility and comfort levels. Whether you're new to sailing or a lifelong sailor, you'll be welcomed aboard as part of a Sailing with Parkinson's crew.

Destinations

What Are the Benefits Of
Sailing With Parkinsons?

Sailing can be particularly beneficial for people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) due to a combination of physical, cognitive, and emotional benefits including:

Improves Balance and Coordination

Parkinson’s affects the basal ganglia, which impacts balance and motor control.
Sailing requires continuous adjustments to movement and posture, especially with the motion of the boat.
These real-time adjustments challenge the vestibular system, improving proprioception (sense of body position) and core strength.

Encourages Functional Movement

Tasks like steering, trimming sails, or shifting weight promote functional, full-body movement.
This helps maintain range of motion, reduce muscle rigidity, and support mobility.

Reduces Stress and Boosts Mood

The water environment is naturally calming.
Being outdoors and engaged in a purposeful activity can reduce anxiety and depression, common in Parkinson’s.
Sailing may increase dopamine release through positive emotional stimulation.

Cognitive Engagement

Sailing requires problem-solving, spatial awareness, and strategic thinking — all of which stimulate cognitive functions.
This kind of mental engagement helps slow cognitive decline.

Social Interaction and Community

Sailing often happens in teams or clubs, promoting social connection and reducing isolation, which can affect people with Parkinson’s.

Vestibular and Sensory Stimulation

The constant motion of the boat stimulates the vestibular system, which can enhance balance and body awareness.
This type of sensory integration is often used in neuro-rehabilitation therapies

Clinical Note

Sailing isn’t a replacement for Parkinson’s treatment, but it can be a powerful complementary therapy. Some rehabilitation programs even include adaptive sailing specifically designed for people with neurodegenerative diseases. If you're considering it for yourself or a loved one, working with a physical therapist or occupational therapist familiar with Parkinson’s can help tailor the activity safely.