Boston Blind Sailing burgee

Boston Blind Sailing is a non profit in Boston that helps blind and visually impaired people learn to sail, race, and navigate. Founded in 2016, BBS is open to sailors at all levels, and is dedicated to strengthening access and inclusion to sailing and providing opportunities to participate in highly competitive regattas. Volunteer coaches act as sighted guides, coaches, and mentors to build autonomy and agency in their sailors.

My small contribution to this effort has been acting as their graphic designer, helping the organization begin to develop a public presence. The first task has been creating a burgee. While it’s great as a logo, it is also a functional item, allowing guides and racers to identify their support boats, race committees, and fellow sailors.

The burgee is loud, high-contrast, and bright red to ensure that it is noticed. Similar to dive flags (a red flag with a white stripe) It is meant to draw attention and caution. The eye is split to represent the equal participation of the sighted and the visually impaired.