session 1: february 18 – may 14
afterschool 2 days a week
session 2: july 15 – aug 6
full day, monday through thursday
session 3: sept 8 – dec 3
afterschool 2 days a week
for current and rising 9th and 10th graders
year long commitment - priority given to applicants who can attend all three semesters
what is rocking the boat?
Rocking the Boat San Francisco is a youth development program in Bayview-Hunters Point that helps participants develop pride, purpose, and possibility by learning the unique and lifelong skills behind building wooden boats from scratch, learning how to read boat plans, and using shop tools to create something that really works. No prior carpentry experience is needed.
Through Rocking the Boat, participants have fun, gain self-confidence, and become part of an exceptionally strong community of young people determining their own futures.
Rocking the Boat recruits current 9th and 10th graders for its programs. You don’t need any prior knowledge or experience to apply, just a willingness to learn new things and get dirty! While all schools have different policies on awarding credit for extra-curricular activities, Rocking the Boat staff will work with all participants to help them obtain academic credit in return for successful program participation.
benefits
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Learn the practical skills needed to build a wooden boat from scratch.
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Explore the nature of San Francisco Bay aboard rowboats.
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Build a community of peers and mentors to help you succeed in your personal and academic goals.
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Be supported by a team of licensed Social Workers from the 3rd Street Youth Center & Clinic. Support includes individual counseling, referrals to outside services, advocacy at school and at home, workshops and discussion groups, professional development, and college and career guidance.
open house events
Rocking the Boat hosts several open house events during the year. These events are an opportunity for students and their families to learn more about Rocking the Boat and our programs before joining. On our student interest form, please select a date and time that works best for you.
2026 open house dates
thursday, january 22
4:00pm-6:30pm
thursday, january 29
4:00pm-6:30pm
thursday, february 5
4:00pm-6:30pm
thursday, february 12
4:00pm-6:30pm
apply
located at india basin waterfront park
900 innes ave, san francisco
