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A bold new horizon.
A longstanding mission.
OUR STORY
Friends of Belmar Harbor is growing into Sail Belmar Community Sailing Center,
building on decades of service to the Shark River community.
ESTABLISHED 1999
From Friends of Belmar Harbor to Sail Belmar
Friends of Belmar Harbor was founded in 1999 around a simple belief: our waterfront is a community resource, and the experiences it offers should be shared. Through sailing, environmental education and outdoor programs, generations of young people and families have found a place on Shark River.
The Sail Belmar Community Sailing Center name reflects a broader, forward-looking vision: more accessible entry points, meaningful progression for sailors, expanded adult and adaptive programs, stronger partnerships and a sustainable waterfront home for the future.
OUR VALUES
Sail Belmar Misson
Access
Removing barriers to participation through supportive programming and scholarships.
Growth
Helping sailors build capability, character, independence and lifelong connections.
Stewardship
Protecting and celebrating Shark River and the broader coastal environment.
Our vision and history
Founded in 1999 by William J. Shipers, Esq., then Chair of the Belmar Harbor Commission, and fellow community members, Friends of Belmar Harbor (FOBH) was established to promote sailing, waterfront recreation, and maritime education along the Shark River.
1999–2003 | Establishing Community Sailing.
Under Shipers’ leadership, FOBH established its sailing center at Maclearie Park near L Street Beach, secured sponsorships for its first fleet of Optimist sailboats, and introduced youth and adult sailing programs. By 2003, FOBH had more than 80 active members and hosted the Mayor’s Cup and Friendship Cup Regattas, attracting young sailors from surrounding communities.
2005–2017 | Expanding Programs and Community Outreach
In 2005, FOBH received a $181,033 grant from the New Jersey Department of Transportation to purchase boats, kayaks, and equipment. This investment supported the organization's continued growth. Over the following years, FOBH expanded its recreational and educational offerings, including City Sailors, Shark River Discovery Camp, adult sailing activities, and community events.
2018–2020 | Strengthening Education and Accessibility
In 2018, under President Eric Krause and a new Board of Trustees, FOBH placed greater emphasis on education, incorporating life skills, marine science, and environmental awareness into its youth programs. The organization continued developing its sailing instruction and community outreach, creating opportunities for sailors of different ages and abilities.
2026–2027 | A New Chapter: Sail Belmar
Building on more than 25 years of community sailing, FOBH is transitioning to Sail Belmar Community Sailing Center. This next chapter focuses on expanding youth and adult sailing, competitive racing pathways, adaptive sailing, maritime education, and year-round community engagement along the Shark River.
Our mission remains rooted in the vision of our founders: making sailing and the waterfront accessible to the community while inspiring future generations through education, recreation, and lifelong connections to the water.